heating, hydro cost

 any comprehensive list of how to reduce the cost of heatimng and
energy in my house 2000sqf this year, I am in Toronto.

and what is the annual cost of running a computer and a fridge
all-time on as an example.

  David McGeorge wrote:


The most cost-effective thing you can do is add more insulation.

While not a high efficiency source, appliances running full time
(like computer) deliver *all* of the energy used into the house,
reducing heat load on the furnace.  So, turning off the appliances
means running the furnace more (though it's not an even trade-off
in cost).

Jim

 Get the most energy saving windows you can find. Triple pane argon filled
"Energy Star" windows. http://www.energystar.gov/
Then add storm windows and heavy drapes.

Add insulation where possible. 1 ft. thick in attic or more.

Seal any and all air leaks. Caulk on inside around pipes under sinks, caulk
on outside around windows, doors, vents, etc.

Get electric outlet seal gaskets for outlets on outside walls. This helps
stop air leaks around electric outlets.

Heat just bedroom(s) at night with electric heaters and turn whole house
heating way down. Can also just heat one room during day and stay in there
mostly. Close off unused rooms. My house was 60 degrees F. this morning but
my bedroom was a cozy 67 deg. F. with only an electric space heater on low
and 29 degrees outside.

You can get new Energy Star appliances which will use less electricity than
older models. I bought a new window air conditioner which uses 1/3 of the
electricity of my older model and has a higher BTU rating!

Some new gas/oil furnaces can be *very* efficient. May be worth it in the
long run to replace an older unit where a lot of the heat goes up the flue.

Take showers instead of baths. Skip taking showers if not needed. An
electric water heater can be 1/3 of an electric bill!



"Speedy Jim"  wrote in message

 berlin.de:


Outlets in interior walls can leak cold air too -- if the hole isn't sealed
where the electrical wire enters the attic.

 << Outlets in interior walls can leak cold air too -- if the hole isn't
sealed
where the electrical wire enters the attic. >>

This is an excellent point! We have an attic, or whole-house, fan, and when
it's on it really demonstrates how much outside air can get in through the
outlets.