Inefficient, outdated heating, cooling and ventilation systems can be draining on your cash but also on your health. Uncirculated, stale air allows moisture, odours and pollutants to linger in your home. Consider replacing systems that aren?t energy efficient if they're more than 7 to 10 years old ? even those in good mechanical working condition. Also consider automatic thermostats and a balanced ventilation system with a single intake for fresh air that's filtered, heated or cooled and distributed to living areas and later exhausted through several outlets. Over time, energy savings as high as 30% from Energy efficient heating and cooling equipment will recoup the cost of buying the systems.

The largest portion of most hydro bills is attributed to controlling temperature. An energy efficient heating and cooling system can greatly contribute to savings on your hydro bill and may improve the comfort in your home. When shopping for a new heating or cooling system, be sure to take into consideration the equipment costs, costs of fuel, fuel delivery, warranties and any maintenance costs over the life of the equipment.

• Install programmable thermostats or timers to give you better control when the heat or air conditioning is on. Programmable thermostats also will help you control the temperature and keep it on an even keel.
• Ensure that the hole in the wall behind the thermostat is insulated. Install your thermostat out of direct sunlight and away from cold air or drafts.
• Every few months remove the thermostat cover and dust it gently with a soft brush.
• On hot days, close the door(s) and draw the curtains and/or shades to keep the sun out. During the heating season, take these same steps at night and during unoccupied periods to help your building retain heat.
• Weatherize your building by installing awnings, solar window shade screens or sun-control window film, and applying a heat-blocking coating to your roof.
• Perform regular maintenance to keep your heating and air conditioning systems running more efficiently.
• When turning the thermostat on, do not switch it to a colder setting than required. It will not cool the room any faster.
• Remember that heating costs will rise about 5% for every degree above 20° C (68° F) that you set the thermostat.
• If you have a heat pump, avoid manual setting thermostats. Adjusting the thermostat more than a few degrees at a time turns on the auxiliary heating, which uses more energy than the heat pump alone. Switch to a programmable thermostat.

Recommended thermostat settings for a comfortable temperature are:

21° C (70° F) when home relaxing

20° C (68° F) when working or exercising

18° C (64° F) when sleeping

16° C (61° F) when away for an extended period of time.