How to Save Money on Your Toronto Energy Bill

Online, December 16, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The Government of Ontario has designated "Time-of-Use" rates for to help Toronto residents measure their energy use:

Summer (May 1st to October 31st)

Weekdays: 7:00 pm to 7:00 am - Ontario energy demand is low

7:00 am to 11:00 am - Ontario energy demand is moderate

11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Ontario energy demand is high

5:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Ontario energy demand is moderate

Weekends: Ontario energy demand is low all day

Winter (November 1st to April 30th)

Weekdays: 7:00 pm to 7:00 am - Ontario energy demand is low

7:00 am to 11:00 am - Ontario energy demand is high

11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Ontario energy demand is moderate

5:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Ontario energy demand is high

Weekends: Ontario energy demand is low all day

Consider the following energy saving tips you can use to reduce your Toronto bill every month:

Laundry: use your washer and dryer, two major energy-sucking sources, during off-peak periods. Use cold water as much as possible when using the washer.

Dishwasher: use during off-peak periods with a fully loaded dishwasher, and air-dry your wet dishes.

Heating: keep your air conditioning and heating on while you're sleeping, or when you're not home, with automated room temperature control, if possible.

Air Conditioning: use fans as much as possible - keep fans at your feet. Wear cold wet socks to bed to adjust your body's temperature. Use central air conditioning during off-peak times, and seal up leaks and cracks around your home with insulation, weather stripping and caulking. Close your blinds, shutters and curtains when the sun is beaming into your rooms!

Lighting: consider adding motion-sensors into your rooms, so that lights are only in use when someone is in the room.

Electronics: try to keep electronics off when not in use, as anything plugged in will heat up the room. When electronics are in use try to use them during off-peak hours.

Contact your hydro company to see what their rates are during peak and off-peak times, follow the tips above, and your Toronto energy bill will be drastically reduced.