How can I better manage my hydro bill?

One way residential customers can better manage their hydro bill is by shifting their electricity usage to lower-cost times. For example, washing and drying clothes can be done either between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, or on weekends.

Other actions residential customers can take to use electricity more efficiently include the following:

• Install a programmable thermostat to manage energy used to heat and cool the home, especially when away or sleeping
• Caulk, seal and weather-strip windows and install a seal sweep on doors
• Close curtains/blinds during the day in the summer, and open them during the day in the winter
• Use fans instead of air conditioners
• Install ENERGY STAR® qualified LED bulbs — they use up to 90 percent less electricity
• Use a clothesline or clothes rack for drying
• Operate the dryer with full loads