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Which upgrades are most appropriate for preserving the heritage and character elements of a home and achieving energy savings?
To preserve the architectural heritage of older homes and improve energy efficiency, retrofits should minimize changes to the building’s appearance and focus on repairs rather than replacement. Below are a list of energy saving upgrades appropriate for heritage homes: Do you live in the City of Vancouver? Check out the Heritage Energy Retrofit Grant. The…
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Which home energy improvements will make my home quieter?
Several home energy improvements will have the added benefit of making your home quieter by creating a sound barrier from outside noise. Ask your energy advisor or contractor which home energy improvements will help soundproof your home and reduce outside noise. Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand?…
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How do I reduce the amount of condensation on my windows?
Condensation occurs when water vapour is cooled to the point where it condenses as water droplets on a cold surface. Greater accumulations of condensation will appear on colder window temperatures and homes with high humidity levels. To reduce the amount of condensation on your windows you can: Reduce the humidity levels in your house Increase…
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Can I do my energy efficiency upgrades myself?
There are many home energy upgrades that homeowners can complete themselves. With a few special tools, the right materials, and careful execution, do-it-yourselfers can reap the benefits of cost savings and a more energy efficient home. See the FAQ, “What are the most cost effective DIY home energy improvements?“ BC Hydro and FortisBC provide helpful…
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Where can I find a contractor that is right for the job, and what should I know before hiring them?
When hiring a contractor, it’s important that you are choosing them for the quality of their work and for their training and credentials rather than solely on price. There are a variety of consequences to hiring someone that is going to do a poor job installing your equipment. We recommend calling around to different installers…
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Where do I start to reduce drafts and improve my home?
The first step to reduce drafts is to identify the air leakage areas throughout your home. Although you might feel drafts and see air leakage areas around windows and doors on the main floor, in most homes, the most significant air leaks are often found in the attic/top floor and basement/lowest floor and are often hidden.…
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Why are my energy bills so high?
Your home energy consumption and the amount you pay on energy bills is based on many factors: size of home, energy efficiency of the home, type of heating system you use, the fuel type (electricity, gas, oil, propane) you use for space and hot water heating, the number of people living in your home and…
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What are the benefits of an EnerGuide home evaluation?
An EnerGuide home evaluation is the first step in a smart home energy renovation. An evaluation will help you make informed decisions about which upgrades would work best for your home, how to prioritize them and which will save you the most on energy costs. Solutions for your home Prioritized upgrade options Receive money for your…
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Where can I find an energy advisor?
To find an energy advisor and schedule an energy evaluation, use our list of program-qualified energy advisors. Select your Town or City from the drop-down list and the contact information of nearby energy advisors will be displayed. Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.
