What’s Your Energy Efficiency IQ?

1. What is the benefit of installing weather stripping around your home’s doors and windows?

• Prevents pests from entering the home.
• Reduces the need for ventilation.
• Blocks cold air drafts.
• Improves air quality.

Correct!Incorrect! Installing weather stripping – whether it be tape, tension seals or draft guards – can help block cold air drafts, thus lowering heating and cooling costs.

2. Going away on vacation? Which is not an energy-saving tip to follow when you leave your home for an extended period of time?

• Draw your blinds and curtains closed to insulate heat better.
• Unplug devices like televisions and gaming systems.
• Turn down the temperature on your thermostat.
• Leave the lights on around the house.

Correct!Incorrect! Start a list and double check savings measures before you leave your home for an extended period of time to make sure you’re not wasting energy or money.

3. Dust, pollen and pet hair can be a nuisance to clean. Which appliance should you check often for energy efficiency due to dust collection?

• Microwave
• Dryer
• Stove
• Refrigerator

Correct!Incorrect! Refrigerator coils are the perfect trap for unwanted pet hair, dust and more. This will impact your refrigerator's cooling capabilities and lead to higher energy usage.

4. How can you use an electric blanket most efficiently so you can warm up to savings?

• Set the blanket on the highest temperature.
• Turn the blanket on an hour before you want to use it.
• Turn down your home thermostat when you are using the blanket. thermostat by Junaid Ali from Noun Project (CC BY 3.0)
• Fold the blanket for added insulation.

Correct!Incorrect! Turning down the thermostat while using an electric blanket allows you to target heat where it's needed most, reducing overall energy consumption.

5. Which of the following actions can help save energy when using your fireplace?

• Keep the damper closed when not in use.
• Burn wet or green wood.
• Use the fireplace as the primary heating source.
• Leave it to burn all night even when you aren’t watching it.

Correct!Incorrect! Keeping the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use helps prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering through the chimney. Always remember to open the damper before lighting a fire.

6. Don’t sleep on energy savings during Daylight Saving Time. Which time-conscious action will not help you save on energy this season?

• Change the settings for lights that are on a timer.
• Reset your clocks.
• Research peak power demands in your area and adjust energy usage.
• Ask your local energy provider to upgrade to a smart meter.

Correct!Incorrect! While still a need, resetting your clocks won’t help you save energy. As days get longer, the need for indoor lighting becomes less and less. Contact your local energy provider about installing smart meters in your area and learn the peak usage times for your area.