With global warming creating hotter summers across North America and the pandemic shifting our lifestyles towards more spending more time in our houses, we could all benefit from boosting our home’s energy efficiency to save on hydro bills. Here are some big and small changes that could help:

Start with a solid foundation

If you’re adding an extension to your property, a pool to your backyard, or even planning a custom-built dream home, choose sustainable materials that promote energy conservation. Instead of traditional wood framing, consider insulated concrete forms from Nudura.

The eco-friendly alternative features thermal mass walls that boost insulation and can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 60% a year. Plus, using ICFs can help your home qualify for various credit categories in LEED green building programs.

Work on your windows

Did you know that about 15 to 20% of your home’s surface is windows? This means any issues with them can have a major impact on your energy consumption. Take time to caulk any gaps or air leaks and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows. Double-paned windows can improve insulation and help ensure your cooled, air-conditioned air doesn’t escape.

Be mindful of your refrigerator

If you aren’t careful, a lot of energy can be used by your fridge. First, make sure the one in your kitchen (and basement) is a newer model, as older ones can cost hundreds more a year to power. Then, clear it out so the shelves and drawers aren’t overcrowded, which makes the fridge work harder to pump cool air throughout. Finally, if you let leftovers cool on the counter before putting them inside, your fridge will use less energy.

Learn more about how Nudura makes the most of green building technology to heat and cool our homes by checking out all the eco-friendly benefits of ICFs.