With energy costs continuing to rise across Ontario, many households are looking for practical ways to reduce their monthly hydro bills. The good news is that saving energy does not always require major upgrades or lifestyle changes. Small adjustments around the home can add up to meaningful savings over time. Here are some simple, realistic ways to lower energy use and keep your home running more efficiently. 1. Use electricity during off peak hoursMost Ontario homes are on time of use pricing. Using appliances during evenings, weekends, and holidays can reduce the cost per kilowatt hour and help lower your overall bill. 2. Switch to LED lightingLED bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer. While the upfront cost is slightly higher, the long term savings make them one of the easiest upgrades to start with. 3. Choose fans when possibleFans use far less electricity than air conditioning. During warmer months, using a fan instead of AC whenever possible can noticeably reduce energy consumption. 4. Unplug electronics when not in useMany devices continue to draw power even when turned off. Using power bars or unplugging electronics helps eliminate this phantom energy use. 5. Seal windows and doorsDraft force your heating and cooling systems to work harder. Proper window coverings, door sweeps, and weather stripping help keep warm air in during winter and cool air in during summer. 6. Run full loads onlyWait until your dishwasher or washing machine is full before running it. Fewer cycles mean less electricity and water usage. 7. Use smaller appliances for small jobsFor quick meals or reheating, a toaster oven or microwave uses far less energy than a full size oven. 8. Keep fridge doors closedEvery time the fridge door stays open, it has to work harder to return to the proper temperature. Decide what you need before opening it. 9. Avoid opening the oven while cookingOpening the oven door lets heat escape and forces the appliance to use more energy to maintain temperature. Use the oven light when possible. 10. Wash clothes in cold waterMost of the energy used by washing machines goes toward heating water. Washing in cold water can significantly reduce energy use and is gentler on clothing. 11. Take shorter showersShorter showers mean less hot water usage and less work for your water heater. Over time, this can lead to noticeable savings. _ Saving energy does not have to be complicated. Small changes, applied consistently, can help lower your monthly costs and support a more efficient home. If you have questions about protecting your home or want to review your home insurance coverage, our team at Duliban Insurance is here to help ensure your coverage reflects how you live today. Contact us today to get started. 

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