Simple ways to save energy while keeping warm at home

Small daily habits for a warmer home and a better community

Staying warm during a Toronto winter doesn’t have to mean a massive energy bill. With shorter days and freezing temperatures, our heaters and lights work overtime. By making a few small adjustments, you can keep your home cozy while helping Toronto Community Housing reach its goal of being more eco-friendly.

Here is how you can save energy and stay comfortable this winter. 

Simple habits for big savings 

Reducing your electricity use is easier than you think. Start with these daily habits: 

  • Flip the switch: Always turn off the lights when you leave a room.
  • Upgrade your bulbs: Use LED light bulbs. They last much longer and use a fraction of the energy that old-fashioned bulbs do.
  • Unplug when finished: Don’t leave phone chargers or electronics plugged in if you aren’t using them.
  • Use power bars: These allow you to turn off multiple electronics at once with a single switch. 

Watch out for "phantom load" 

Even when your electronics are turned off, they can still "haunt" your energy bill. This is called Phantom Load (or standby power). Devices like TVs, game consoles, and microwaves continue to draw electricity if they are plugged in. Over time, this wasted power adds up. Unplugging these devices is the best way to stop energy waste. 

Stay cozy without cranking the heat 

You don’t always need to turn up the thermostat to stay warm. Try these tips to keep the heat inside your home: 

  • Master your curtains: During the day, open your curtains to let the sunlight naturally warm your room. At night, close them tight to add an extra layer of insulation against the cold windows. 

  • Dress for the weather: Put on a sweater or use a blanket before reaching for the thermostat. 

  • Keep air moving: Make sure furniture and curtains aren't blocking your radiators or vents. Heat needs space to circulate throughout the room. 

  • Seal the chill: Keep your windows and doors closed tight. If you feel a draft (cold air coming in), report it to the building staff right away.

Pro tip: If you have a thermostat, try to keep it at a steady, comfortable temperature. Constant turning up and down of temperature makes the heating system work harder and less efficiently. 

We are all in this together 

Energy conservation works best when everyone participates. Small daily choices lead to healthier, more sustainable communities for all of us. 

Need more help or tips? 

Visit torontohousing.ca/conservation or check out conservation videos on YouTube. 

You can also email the Conservation team at conservation@torontohousing.ca. 

If your heat isn’t working or you have a repair need, call the Client Care Centre at 416-981-5500 (TRS 7-1-1) or talk to your Superintendent.