Energy-saving stocking stuffers: The gifts that keep on giving

The holidays are full of giving, but what if your gifts could keep giving long after the wrapping paper’s gone? This year, fill stockings with smart, practical gadgets that help save energy and money. Each one on its own might save just a few dollars a month, but together, they add up to meaningful savings over the course of the year.

Cozy comfort tools

When it comes to heating, every bit of warmth you keep inside is money saved.

• Smart thermostat sensors help your thermostat read more accurately throughout your home, so it doesn’t overwork the furnace to heat unused spaces.
• Weather stripping seals gaps around doors and windows, keeping cold air out and warm air in.
• Draft stoppers (the fabric tubes that sit at the bottom of doors) add another layer of insulation and are an easy, inexpensive way to keep your home cozier.

Together, these small upgrades can make your home more comfortable by reducing cold spots and chilly floors during Alberta’s longest season.

Everyday energy hacks

Looking for even simpler ideas? These little helpers will make life easier (and cheaper) every single day.

• LED night lights use a fraction of the power of traditional bulbs and last for years.
• Motion sensor lights prevent anyone from leaving the basement or hallway lights on by mistake.
• Rechargeable batteries cut down on both waste and the cost of single-use batteries. These are especially handy for all those new gadgets unwrapped over the holidays.

Bonus pick: The hidden helper

Not every energy-saving gift has to plug in. An insulated water-heater blanket or pipe wrap might not fit in a stocking, but it’s a small, affordable upgrade that can make a noticeable difference on your utility bill.

Hot water tanks and exposed pipes lose heat to the air around them, especially in cooler basements or utility rooms. Wrapping them in insulation helps water stay warmer for longer, so your system doesn’t need to work as hard to reheat it.

A couple quick tips:

• If you’re wrapping exposed pipes, leave easy access for your stop and waste (S&W) valve and water meter for maintenance.
• Don’t confuse pipe wrap with heat tape. Heat tape isn’t recommended, especially if you have Kitec water service, as it can lead to melting of the water line.

It’s not the flashiest gift under the tree, but it’s one of the most practical. Think of it as the “unsung hero” of your home’s comfort: quietly keeping warmth (and money) from slipping away.

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