Saving Energy This Summer: HVAC and Plumbing Efficiency Tips
For nearly 40 years, we have helped Okanagan homeowners keep cool in summer heat while trimming utility bills. Below are the practical HVAC and plumbing steps we recommend to cut energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
1. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can lose up to thirty percent of cooled air before it reaches the rooms you use.
- Inspect joints for dust streaks that signal leakage
- Seal gaps with mastic or UL-181 foil tape
- Add duct wrap in unconditioned crawl spaces and attics
2. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat and Set Summer Schedules
Programming setbacks of three to four degrees Celsius while you are away can reduce cooling costs by ten percent.
- FortisBC offers up to $150 on qualifying models
- Set daytime cooling to 25–26 °C
- Use vacation mode when you leave town
Check current thermostat rebates
3. Change AC Filters Every One to Three Months
Restricted airflow makes the system run longer and can ice up the coil. A clean filter costs little and keeps energy use in check.
4. Schedule a Mid-Season HVAC Tune-Up
Our technicians clean coils, verify refrigerant, and measure system amperage. Correct refrigerant charge alone can cut cooling costs by fifteen percent.
5. Lower Hot-Water Temperature to 49 °C
Most water heaters ship at 60 °C, which increases standby losses and scald risk. Lowering the dial can save three to five percent on water-heating energy.
6. Fix Dripping Taps and Running Toilets
A single dripping tap wastes up to 700 litres per month, and a running toilet can triple summer water bills.
- Replace worn flappers and fill valves
- Swap old faucet cartridges before they seize
7. Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Faucet Aerators
WaterSense-labeled fixtures maintain pressure while cutting water use by thirty percent.
8. Use Cold Water for Laundry and Shorter Dishwasher Cycles
Modern detergents clean well in cold water, and running full loads saves both electricity and water.
9. Check Irrigation Timers and Inspect for Underground Leaks
Water lawns early in the morning when evaporation is lowest. Walk the yard for soggy patches that signal a broken line.
Frequently Asked Questions About Saving Energy and Water at Home
Once a year is usually enough, though homes with pets or high dust may need a mid-season filter check.
Most dishwashers have internal heaters, so 49 °C remains safe.
Yes. Reduced water use lowers pump cycling and extends its life.
Yes. Fewer leaks mean less dust and insulation fibers are pulled into the system.
Save Energy and Water Before the Next Heatwave
Vision Plumbing Heating Cooling has provided tune-ups, leak repairs, and efficiency upgrades for Okanagan homes since 1986. Schedule service today and start lowering bills.
