10 ways to help lower your energy bill this summer
Published: July 17, 2026
Summary
- Small changes to how you cool your home can help make a noticeable difference in your summer energy bill
- Simple upgrades and everyday habits can improve comfort while reducing energy use
- Planning ahead and using energy wisely helps you stay cool without overspending
Summer in Toronto can bring long stretches of heat and higher electricity use as air conditioners work harder. The good news is that practical, easy-to-implement changes can help you stay comfortable while keeping your energy costs under control.
Here are 10 realistic ways to help lower your energy bill this summer:
1. Set your thermostat as high as comfortable.
Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature during the summer. As a rule of thumb, the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling costs will be. Aim for about 24°C when you’re home, and 26°C or higher when you’re away or asleep.
2. Use a smart thermostat to automate savings.
A smart or programmable thermostat can adjust temperatures based on your routine. Set it to use less cooling when you’re away and return to comfort before you’re home, so you save energy automatically. You may also be eligible for programs like Save on Energy’s Peak Perks, which offer incentives for enrolling your smart thermostat to help reduce electricity use during periods of high demand.
3. Use fans to feel cooler.
Ceiling or portable fans can make a room feel 2 to 3°C cooler, allowing you to raise your thermostat. Turn them off when you leave the room, since they cool people, not spaces.
4. Keep blinds and curtains closed.
Reduce heat gain by closing blinds, curtains or shades during the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows.
5. Shift appliance use to cooler hours.
Heat-producing appliances like ovens, dryers and dishwashers can warm your home. Run them early in the morning or later in the evening or use alternatives like a microwave or barbecue.
6. Switch to LED lighting.
LED bulbs use significantly less energy and produce less heat than traditional bulbs, helping lower both your electricity use and indoor temperature.
7. Seal drafts and air leaks.
Cool air can escape through gaps around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to keep the cool air in and reduce strain on your cooling system.
8. Maintain your cooling system.
Keep your system running efficiently by cleaning or replacing air filters regularly and ensuring vents are unobstructed.
9. Cut phantom power.
Many electronics continue to use electricity even when they’re turned off — a phenomenon known as phantom power or standby power. Use a power bar to easily switch off multiple devices at once and reduce unnecessary energy use when electronics aren’t in use.
10. Consider small upgrades.
If you’re ready to go further, upgrades like improved insulation or an energy-efficient heat pump can deliver longer-term savings. Heat pumps provide both cooling and heating in one system and use electricity more efficiently than traditional equipment, helping reduce energy use year-round.
Lowering your energy bill doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. By combining simple habits with a few targeted improvements, you can stay cool and manage your energy use all summer long.
Explore available offers, rebates and financial assistance programs, and discover more ways to save energy at home.