Fall is here—sweater weather, pumpkin-spiced everything, and crisper mornings. But with cooler temperatures creeping in, you might notice your energy bills inching up too. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not powerless. With these simple energy-saving tips, you can keep your home cozy and your wallet happy this fall.
1. Seal up those drafts
Cool breezes belong outside, not sneaking through your windows or doors like uninvited guests. Fall is the perfect time to hunt down drafts and seal them up.
- Check windows and doors for leaks
- Feel for drafts around electrical outlets
- Use caulk, weather stripping, or draft stoppers
If your windows and doors look like they've seen better days, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. ATCO Energy offers window and door replacement services to help you keep the cold out and the warmth in.
2. Harness the power of the sun
The sun may not feel as warm as it did in July, but its rays are still strong enough to light and warm your home without costing you a dime. Keep your curtains open during the day to invite natural sunlight into your space. Those south-facing windows? They’re your personal, energy-free heaters.
When night falls, close your curtains to lock in that warmth and block out the chill. This small habit can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home toasty and your energy bills in check.
3. Give your furnace some TLC
Your furnace is about to go into overdrive as temperatures drop, so it’s a great idea to give it some attention now. A professional tune-up helps your system run efficiently, so it heats your home using less energy.
Pro tip: Regular furnace maintenance can help you avoid up to 85% of the most common repairs. Plus, a well-maintained furnace can cut your energy bills by as much as 30%.
Don’t have the time or the tools? ATCO Energy’s furnace tune-up services will have your heating system humming like new.
4. Adjust your thermostat for savings
Here’s an easy win: Lower your thermostat by 1–2°C when you’re asleep or away from home. It’s a small change that can make a huge difference on your energy bill.
Want to take it up a notch? Invest in a smart thermostat. These clever gadgets adjust automatically and can even be controlled from your phone.
Did you know? Smart thermostats can trim your heating bill by almost 10% per year.
5. Change lightbulbs
With fall’s shorter days, your lights are working overtime. Trade out traditional incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. They use up to 90% less energy and last 15 times longer.
For an extra touch of ambiance, consider dimmable LEDs to set the perfect mood for those crisp fall evenings. It’s a small change with a big impact on your energy savings.
6. Prep your hot water tank
A long, hot shower feels amazing on chilly fall mornings, but if your water heater is dated or overworked, it could be draining your energy budget. Wrap your hot water tank in an insulating blanket to reduce heat loss, and lower the thermostat on the heater to 49–55°C.
Thinking about upgrading your hot water tank instead? Our vetted pros can set you up with a higher-efficiency model—just in time for winter.
7. Layer your floors
Bare floors can let cold air seep in, making your home feel chillier, especially on those crisp fall mornings. Adding rugs or carpets is a simple yet effective way to keep your feet warm and create a more inviting space.
Beyond comfort, rugs act as an extra layer of insulation, helping to reduce heat loss through the floor and keeping your home more energy-efficient.
8. Maintain your A/C
Surprised to see air conditioning on this list in the fall? Hear us out. Before you pack your air conditioner away for the season, schedule an annual maintenance check or tune-up. Here’s why it’s worth the effort:
- Prevent costly repairs: Addressing minor issues now can save you from expensive breakdowns when you need your A/C the most next summer.
- Extend its lifespan: Regular maintenance helps your unit run efficiently and last longer, delaying the need for a costly replacement.
- Improve energy efficiency: A clean and well-maintained A/C uses less energy, which means lower bills when it’s back in use.
With ATCO Energy’s air conditioning tune-up services, you’ll be ready to welcome Alberta’s warmer days without missing a beat.
Own your home this fall
By tackling these fall energy-saving tips, you’ll create a cozier, more energy-smart home just in time for colder weather. From sealing drafts and fine-tuning your furnace to letting sunlight work its magic, these small changes add up to big savings.
Need a hand? With 60+ home services, we’ll help tackle your to-do list and prep your home for the colder months, so you can head into winter feeling cozy and confident.
