Summer energy saving tips

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the warm temperatures have arrived. Summer is officially here! While it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sunshine, it’s also a great opportunity to reduce your energy use and lower your utility bills. Here are some of our best tips to help you stay cool and energy-smart during the hot summer months.

Air conditioner management

According to Natural Resources Canada, more Canadians have air conditioners at home, significantly increasing energy use for cooling1. If you are one of them, here’s how to use it wisely.

Turn off your air conditioner at night. Instead of running your AC while you sleep, open your windows to let in the cooler night air.
Service your air conditioner unit regularly. A well-maintained air condition runs more efficiently, cools fasters, and uses less energy.
Use a portable air conditioner. These units are ideal for cooling only the rooms you use, saving money compared to central systems.
Close air vents to the basement. This avoids push air to an already cooler area.

Woman sitting in front of a fan blowing air

Managing temperatures

Alberta continues to experience hotter-than-normal summers, with temperatures in some areas nearing or exceeding 30°C as early as May and June². Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts that 2025 will follow this trend, with much of Western Canada expected to face above-average heat and below-normal precipitation².

Staying cool without overloading your AC is possible with a few smart strategies:

Close curtains or blinds during peak sunlight hours to block out heat.
Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise. This pushes cool air downward.
Weather-strip doors and windows. This helps keep the hot air out and the cool air in, improving insulation and reducing the need to cool through AC or fans.

Avoiding heat-generating appliances

Many household appliances generate head and consume a lot of energy. Try these tips to reduce both:

Avoid using the dryer. Take advantage of the warm weather by air-drying your clothes.
Opt for no-cook meals. Prepare dishes like salads and wraps or, if you’re craving a hot meal, use the barbeque instead.
Unplug unused electronics. Devices like TVs and computers generate heat even when idle.

By making a few simple changes, you can enjoy a cooler home, lower energy bills, and a more sustainable summer.

Sources:
¹ Natural Resources Canada – Energy Use in the Residential Sector

²CBC News – Hotter-than-normal summer forecast in most of Canada (2025)

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