Lesson 2: Mastering the Climate: Efficiency in Heating and Cooling

Education Hub [Course] Home Energy Saving 101
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Did you know that Heating and Cooling (HVAC) accounts for nearly 50% of the average household’s energy consumption? If you want to see a massive drop in your utility bill, this is where you need to focus.

:thermometer: Lesson 2.1: The Golden Numbers

Most people set their thermostats based on “comfort,” but every degree matters.

  • In Winter: Aim for 20ºC while you are home and awake. Lower it further when you are sleeping or away.
  • In Summer: Aim for 25-26ºC (77-79ºF).

The Rule of Degrees: For every 1ºC you lower your thermostat in winter (or raise it in summer), you can save between 7% and 10% on your energy bill for that specific season.

:door: Lesson 2.2: Passive Insulation Hacks

Stop paying to heat the outside air! You can significantly improve your home’s “envelope” without expensive renovations:

  1. The “Draft Walk”: Wet your hand and move it around window frames and door edges. If you feel a cold breeze, you have a leak.
  2. Thermal Curtains: Close your curtains at sunset in winter to trap heat. In summer, keep them closed during the day to block solar radiation.
  3. The Draft Stopper: Use a “door snake” or even a rolled-up towel at the base of doors leading to unheated areas (like the garage or basement).

:gear: Lesson 2.3: Efficiency Maintenance

A dirty system is an expensive system.

  • Filter Check: A clogged air filter makes your AC work up to 15% harder. Clean or replace them every 3 months.
  • Bleed Your Radiators: If you use water-based radiators and they feel cold at the top but hot at the bottom, they have trapped air. Bleeding them allows hot water to circulate efficiently.
  • Clear the Vents: Ensure furniture or long curtains aren’t blocking your registers or radiators.

:hammer_and_wrench: Action Item: The Draft Hunt

Don’t just read—do!

  1. Find a Leak: Perform the “Draft Walk” mentioned above.
  2. Fix it: Use weatherstripping, a door snake, or even just repositioning a curtain.
  3. Share with us: Reply below and tell us: Where was your home’s biggest “leak,” and how did you block it? Bonus points for photos of your DIY solutions!

:left_arrow: Back to Course Index

Next up: Lesson 3, where we tackle the “Small Stuff”—Lighting and Electronics.

[START HERE] Course Index
Lesson 1: Your First Home Energy Audit
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The biggest leak I found was at the bottom of my balcony door. I hadn’t noticed how much cold air was slipping in until I ran my hand along the frame.

I added a simple door snake and adjusted the curtain so it sits closer to the floor. The difference in airflow was immediate!

My biggest leak was the balcony door draft, and I blocked it with a door snake and assuring better curtain positioning. It’s a quick fix, but it already feels warmer and more comfortable.