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Author: Ashley Nichol

Air sealing 101

ADVICE FROM OUR TEAM

Outside air can find a way into your home, from wide-open windows to very small cracks and gaps. This air leakage can be costly in terms of energy loss, moisture damage, and your energy bill.

My name is Peter, and I’m an engineer at Efficiency Manitoba. I have nearly four decades of experience with building enclosure projects, with my last 20 years focused specifically on energy efficiency. Take it from me — sealing up and weatherstripping your windows and doors is an easy way to prevent unwanted air leakage and save energy. Here’s how to get started.

1) HOW TO CHECK FOR AIR LEAKS

Your home may have plenty of leaky areas without you even knowing. You’ll want to look out for excessive humidity and consider the performance and safety of fuel burning appliances. These appliances need to have enough air to combust. A heating contractor can check and see if there are any problems. If there are, you should get them fixed before sealing things up.

Professionals can use expert techniques and equipment to find leaks, but the rest of us can use simple tests to catch a lot of problems. Tissue paper clothes-pinned to a coat hanger will flutter in an air current. It’s a good idea to conduct your test on a cold or windy day and turn off your exhaust fans beforehand. This will help you get a feel for leakage that isn’t as obvious as daylight coming through the gap in a door’s weatherstripping.

2) MY HOME IS LEAKY – NOW WHAT?

It’s time to start sealing up! You can do it yourself or have someone do it for you. Regardless, you should have an idea of what needs to be done and how. Each home is unique and there are lots of ways to do just about anything.

Let’s go over what you can do to make your sealing and weatherstripping effective and your home more efficient.

3) HOW TO SEAL UP AND WEATHERSTRIP YOUR HOME

WEATHERSTRIPPING

Weatherstripping is used for joints that move, such as on doors and operable windows. It’s important that your weatherstripping is appropriate for where you’re using it and is properly applied in a clear and clean area.

Because there are so many types of weatherstripping, we couldn’t possibly cover all the options and differences. At the end of the day, weatherstripping that’s durable, relatively easy to install, looks good, and makes a seal across the joint will do the job. During installation, make sure there are as few joints as possible, pay attention to making the corners continuous, and don’t stretch it into place. Materials shrink when it gets colder.

SEALANTS

Sealants are used to seal up gaps and cracks that don’t move. Caulking and expanding foam are two common types of sealant. A well-done project requires choosing the right sealant for the job, properly preparing the surface it’s going on, and applying the sealant correctly. Ultimately, make sure it will stick to what you are applying it to.

Like weatherstripping, caulking comes in a great variety. Acrylic, silicone, and polyurethane, alone or in blend, are very common. Use interior grade inside and exterior grade outside. Some other materials have specific best applications.

Caulks vary in service life, water resistance, flexibility, and ease of application. Cost also varies, but as with many things, there’s usually a trade-off between performance and cost.

WHAT TO USE AND WHERE

For a window or door, replacing worn out weatherstripping is a good maintenance decision that saves money. However, air leaks can happen around the trim and other fixed joints in and around the door or window. That’s where caulking can make a big difference. Removing the interior trim may reveal gaps big enough to seal with expanding foam. Moderation is key — be sure to remove any excess material before it cures.

Door sills get a lot of wear and may deserve more attention. Most sills are designed to have the wearing component easily replaced. Doors and windows may move seasonally depending on soil conditions, sometimes substantially. This can be challenging and may require more of a weatherstripping solution than caulking.

There is so much more to say about sealing and weatherstripping. I encourage you to make good use of your resources, whether it’s YouTube, the wisdom of a good contractor, or that helpful person at your local hardware store.

Please also contact us with your questions. We want you to succeed at saving energy and improving your home’s comfort.

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All about pool pumps

Pool owners in Manitoba are choosing to upgrade their single-speed pool pump to a variable-speed model. Variable-speed pool pumps are quieter, more efficient, and have a longer life span. That means you won’t need to replace it as frequently and will benefit from the energy savings.

Program your variable-speed pool pump to save energy and maximize its potential. Keep reading for some programming and maintenance tips.

HOW IT WORKS

A pool pump uses a motor to push water and chemicals through the filter and heater to keep a constant circulation of fresh, warm, and clean water in your pool. A single-speed pump does exactly what the name states: moves the water through the pool at a single high speed. A variable-speed pump improves on this by allowing you to schedule when the pool pump turns on and the speed at which the water is circulating. In practice, this lets you switch the pool pump to a lower setting. You save energy because the pump isn’t working as hard when it doesn’t need to be.

The average life span of a single-speed pump is about five to seven years. Because variable-speed pumps don’t work constantly, they last longer and also require less maintenance. They also filter the water slower while on a lower setting, which provides you with more effective filtration.

POOL PUMP MAINTENANCE

To keep your pool pump working efficiently, you’ll have to do some regular maintenance:

  1. Clean the debris out of your pool. Dirt, leaves, and bugs can get stuck in your pool’s plumbing, making your pool pump work harder to move the same amount of water. Pool vacuums and skimmers make cleaning a lot easier, and covering your pool when it isn’t being used will keep debris out.
  2. Clean your filters regularly. Because pumps move water through the filtration system of your pool, a clean filter allows your pool pump to work more efficiently.
  3. Follow the manufacturer’s guide for preventative maintenance, such as backwashing to make sure your pump is clear of dirt and debris.

SAVING MONEY WITH AN ENERGY STAR® CERTIFIED VARIABLE-SPEED POOL PUMP

Properly programmed ENERGY STAR certified variable-speed pool pumps use at least 60% less energy than single-speed models. This translates to annual savings of up to $300.

If you’re not using your pool during the day, you can program your pool pump to be on a lower setting for that duration. It will still filter and circulate the water just like a single-speed pump would, but much more efficiently. Read our programming guide for more information.

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The homebuyers’ guide to energy efficiency

Are you a new homebuyer or a homeowner looking to save energy? We partnered with The Manitoba Real Estate Association (MREA) to create a guide to help you save energy, money, and the environment.

The Homebuyers’ Guide to Energy Efficiency is a resource designed specifically for homeowners who want their home to be as comfortable and energy efficient as possible. It has tips on how to save energy and money, advice for hiring a contractor, and information about equipment in new homes.

“We want to empower Manitobans to make energy-saving upgrades to their homes,” said Efficiency Manitoba CEO Colleen Kuruluk. “The Homebuyers’ Guide to Energy Efficiency provides homeowners with information about energy efficiency in a simple and accessible format. This guide will serve as a reference that homeowners can use for years into the future, wherever they may be on their energy efficiency journey.”

Realtors throughout the province will distribute the guide to homebuyers. It’s also available on the MREA’s website. You can check it out by clicking the link below!

READ THE GUIDE
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Make your home office more energy efficient

SAVE WHILE YOU STAY AT HOME

Spending more time at home means you’re likely using more energy. Here are a few handy tips to help you save while staying safe at home:

NATURAL LIGHT

Making use of natural light is a simple way to save energy and money. Next time you flick a switch on, ask yourself if you need the extra light.

ENERGY STAR® CERTIFIED PRODUCTS

ENERGY STAR certified products like clothes washers and refrigerators are typically in the top 15 to 30% of their class in energy performance. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR certified products is a simple way to save energy every day.

ADJUST YOUR THERMOSTAT

Spring is a good time to adjust your thermostat settings. During air conditioning season, increase your home’s temperature by at least 3°C at night. This will take the burden off your air conditioner and help you save on cooling costs.

ADVANCED POWER STRIPS

If you’re working from home, you may be using more electronics than usual. It’s more important than ever to use advanced power strips that stop these devices from drawing power when they’re not in use.

TURN OFF AND UNPLUG

This one may seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget. When you’re not using devices, turn them off and unplug them.

LIMIT AIR CONDITIONING

As summer returns, try using fans or opening your windows instead of turning on the air conditioning. If air conditioning is necessary, use a programmable or smart thermostat to save energy and money.

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Manitoba Race to Reduce

Manitoba office buildings reduce energy use by 9% over a four-year period

Manitoba’s energy efficiency leaders came together virtually to celebrate the achievements of property management companies, landlords, and tenants in reducing energy consumption through their participation in Manitoba Race to Reduce. The awards ceremony was held on April 29, 2021 and marked the conclusion of the four-year challenge.

Launched in 2017, Manitoba Race to Reduce is a friendly challenge aimed at reducing energy use in commercial buildings through collaboration between landlords and tenants. Sponsored by Efficiency Manitoba, buildings hosted energy efficiency tenant engagement events, conducted retrofit projects, and optimized lighting and HVAC schedules to improve energy efficiency.

Thirty-one office buildings in Winnipeg and Brandon participated with a combined 7.5 million square feet of commercial office space:

  • Artis REIT (191 Pioneer Ave) 
  • Artis REIT (167 Lombard Ave) 
  • Artis REIT (220 Portage Ave) 
  • Artis REIT (333 Main St) 
  • Artis REIT (360 Main St) 
  • Artis REIT (365 Osborne St) 
  • Artis REIT (395 Main St) 
  • Bentall Green Oak (1 Lombard Pl / Richardson Centre) 
  • Bentall Green Oak (161 Portage Ave) 
  • City of Winnipeg (1155/1199 Pacific Ave) 
  • City of Winnipeg (185 King / 223 James St) 
  • City of Winnipeg (457 Main St) 
  • City of Winnipeg (510 Main St) 
  • Colliers International (125 Garry St) 
  • Colliers International (175 Hargrave St) 
  • Colliers International (240 Graham Ave) 
  • Colliers International (310 Broadway) 
  • Colliers International (330 St Mary Ave) 
  • Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson (195 Fort St) 
  • Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson (55 Donald St) 
  • Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson (831 Portage Ave) 
  • Great West Life (60 Osborne St) 
  • Harvard Property Management (201 Portage Ave) 
  • IG Wealth Management (447 Portage Ave) 
  • Manitoba Hydro (1315 Notre Dame Ave) 
  • Manitoba Hydro (235 10th St, Brandon MB) 
  • Manitoba Hydro (360 Portage Ave) 
  • McCOR Management (330 Portage Ave) 
  • McCOR Management (333 St Mary Ave / 234 Donald St) 
  • Neptune Properties (428 Portage Ave) 
  • Prairie Architects (141 Bannatyne Ave

Together, participants saved over 16 million equivalent kilowatt-hours, representing an energy use reduction of 9.1%. Fifteen buildings exceeded the Race’s overall objective of a 10% energy use reduction.

Eight awards were presented to buildings achieving the greatest energy savings through their participation in Manitoba Race to Reduce. The winners are as follows:

  • Sustained Excellence: 447 Portage Ave (IG Wealth Management)
    This award is presented to the building that demonstrated the largest consistent reduction in energy use year-over-year since the beginning of the Race. 
  • Most Improved Energy Use: 447 Portage Ave (IG Wealth Management) 
    This award is presented to the building that reduced the largest proportion of its energy compared to its 2016 consumption. 447 Portage Ave reduced its energy consumption by 33% since 2016. 
  • Largest Natural Gas Reduction: 447 Portage Ave (IG Wealth Management) 
    This award is presented to the building that saved the largest amount of natural gas during the fourth year of the Race. 447 Portage Ave reduced its natural gas consumption by over 215,000 cubic metres. 
  • Largest Electricity Reduction: 360 Main St (Artis REIT) 
    This award is presented to the building that saved the largest amount of electricity during the fourth year of the Race. 360 Main St reduced its electricity consumption by 3.2 million kilowatt-hours. 
  • Most Improved Energy Use Intensity: 195 Fort St (Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson)
    This award is presented to the building that reduced its energy use intensity (energy use per square foot of occupied space) the most compared to its 2016 consumption. 195 Fort St reduced its energy consumption by 21% since 2016.  
  • Most Improved Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction: 125 Garry St (Colliers International) 
    This award is presented to the building that reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by the largest portion during the fourth year of the Race. 125 Garry St reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 33%. 
  • Manitoba Race to Reduce Energy Efficiency Champion Award: Richard Bracken (IG Wealth Management)
    Richard Bracken is celebrated by his colleagues at IG Wealth Management as a champion for energy efficiency. He planned Manitoba Race to Reduce engagement events and supported his building operator with green building enhancements. 
  • Most Improved Energy Use Intensity by Property Management Company (Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson) 
    This award is presented to the property management company that reduced their energy use intensity the most for their portfolio of buildings in the Race. Cushman & Wakefield Stevenson reduced their average energy use intensity in their three participating Race buildings by 16%. 

“While the Race may be over, energy efficiency is a lifelong endeavour,” said Colleen Kuruluk (CEO, Efficiency Manitoba) to participants. “We look forward to working with you to continue to find ways to promote energy efficiency in your buildings, especially as folks return to their offices over the next several months.

“Share the good news, spread the word, and keep taking action to save energy, money, and the environment.”

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Spring 2021 magazine

We’re distributing our spring 2021 magazine to homes throughout the province via Canstar flyers in Winnipeg and newspapers in rural Manitoba.

Our twice-yearly magazines are resources for all things energy efficiency. They contain Efficiency Manitoba updates, information about our programs and offers, seasonal energy saving tips, and other green living content. Hang on to your copy so you can reference it whenever you need information about saving energy, money, and the environment.

If you haven’t received a magazine or prefer an electronic copy, click the link below to access a digital version.

READ OUR
MAGAZINE
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Earth day 2021

April 22 is Earth Day! Earth Day is a movement designed to encourage us to protect the environment and preserve our natural resources. Taking action against climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions is necessary to make sure our planet remains healthy for generations to come.

We believe in the importance of Earth Day – and so does Green Action Centre, an organization dedicated to promoting green living and advocating for positive environmental changes. We partnered with them to provide you with resources to celebrate Earth Day and make sustainable living a part of your everyday life.

HOW YOU CAN CELEBRATE

Earth Day Your Way Panel (April 22, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.)

This virtual event gives viewers insight into the work Green Action Centre does and provides tips on how to make Earth Day every day. Register for free!

Omand’s Creek Cleanup (May 29, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)

Join Green Action Centre for their annual cleanup event in Omand’s Creek in Winnipeg. COVID-19 protocols will be followed.

Commuter Challenge (May 30 to June 5, 2021)

The Commuter Challenge encourages participants to choose sustainable modes of travel that build new healthy habits. Doing this will not only make a positive impact on your personal health but also on the environment by cutting air pollution, reducing traffic congestion, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Sign up for free today.

HOW TO MAKE EVERYDAY EARTH DAY

It’s important to bring the work we do on Earth Day to the other 364 days of the year. Here are some tips to help you start your green living journey:

  1. Refuse single-use items. Say “no” to things like straws, plastic bags, takeout cutlery, receipts, and anything that you don’t actually need.
  2. Practice mindful consumption. Before you buy something, ask yourself, “Do I need it? Can I borrow it? Can I purchase it second-hand? Can I purchase it locally-made?”
  3. Compost! Divert up to 40% of your household waste by starting a backyard compost. Also, International Composting Awareness Week is from May 2 to 6, so stay tuned for some quick video tutorials on Green Action Centre’s Instagram.
  4. Increase active and sustainable transportation. Reduce carbon emissions by choosing to walk or cycle short distances and carpool longer ones. Participating in the Commuter Challenge is a great way to get in this mindset!
  5. Reduce food waste by meal planning. Plan your grocery list according to the meals you want to make that week, ensuring all ingredients are accounted for and no food goes to waste.
  6. Prioritize energy efficiency. When you make energy-efficient choices, you’re helping the environment. Not sure where to start? Check out our top tips for getting your home ready for summer!

Learn more about Green Action Centre and their work.

in ENERGY SAVING TIPS, EVENTS, GREEN LIVING

Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program

Efficiency Manitoba partners with the City of Selkirk on energy efficiency 

Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program

Efficiency Manitoba is excited to announce that the City of Selkirk is the first municipality to receive funding for an Energy Efficiency Advocate through Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program. 

Selkirk will receive funding over two years to employ a local Energy Efficiency Advocate, who will identify and facilitate energy-efficient upgrades within the community. While the Advocate will be an employee of the City of Selkirk, they’ll work closely with Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Energy Efficiency Program to create a plan aligning with the city’s energy and sustainability goals. 

“The City of Selkirk is pleased to be part of a program that encourages people to reduce the amount of energy they use with an overall effect of reducing the community’s use of fossil fuels and keeping more money in citizens’ pockets,” said City of Selkirk CAO Duane Nicol. 

“The Community Energy Efficiency Program aligns with the city’s Strategic Plan that makes environmental stewardship a priority, encouraging more environmentally responsible development and helping citizens make good environmental choices.” 

The Community Energy Efficiency Program, set out in Efficiency Manitoba’s approved 2020-23 Efficiency Plan, offers financial and technical support for municipalities to hire and train an Energy Efficiency Advocate. The role of the Advocate is to identify energy-saving opportunities in their community and encourage participation in Efficiency Manitoba’s energy efficiency programs, ultimately leading to reduced energy consumption and lower energy bills. The program supports local economic development through energy efficiency. 

”We’re excited to partner with the City of Selkirk on this initiative,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “By giving communities the tools and resources to take on energy efficiency projects, they’re empowered to save energy and money while promoting a culture of sustainability.” 

The City of Selkirk has adopted a number of conservation efforts over the past three years, including working with the Prairie Climate Centre to develop a Climate Change Adaptation plan. This plan identifies ways the city will adopt efficiency measures in the delivery of municipal services. 

“Selkirk has shown leadership and their commitment to making our province more energy efficient,” Kuruluk adds. “Partnering with them through the Community Energy Efficiency Program will allow us to help them build upon the great work they’ve started while providing a positive example to others in Manitoba of what’s possible.” 

With support from Efficiency Manitoba, the City of Selkirk is currently in the process of hiring an Energy Efficiency Advocate. 

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All about your HRV

A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) helps maintain indoor air quality, lets you control humidity levels in your home, and helps you save money on your energy bills. Your HRV provides the fresh air you need to keep your family healthy and reduce the potential for moisture damage to your home.

Many homes in Manitoba, especially newer homes, have an HRV, but many homeowners have it turned off, don’t know how to use it, don’t have it set up properly, or don’t maintain it well. We’re here to help you learn how to use your HRV to maximize your comfort and energy savings.

HOW IT WORKS

An HRV uses fans to circulate air throughout your home. The HRV exhaust fan removes humidity, odours, and carbon dioxide, while the HRV supply fan replaces the exhausted air with fresh outdoor air. Filters in the HRV prevent dust, air pollutants, and other contaminants from reducing the performance of your HRV.

HRVs can recover heat from the air it exhausts and uses it to pre-heat the supply air introduced into the home. That transfer of heat saves you energy and money.

HRV MAINTENANCE

To keep your HRV working effectively, you’ll have to do some simple maintenance. Below are some general tips, but be sure to read your manufacturer’s instructions too.

EVERY THREE MONTHS

Complete these tasks every three months to keep your HRV in good condition:

  1. Clean your filters. Start by unplugging the unit and opening the HRV filter service access doors. Remove and dispose of used filters, vacuum the filter sections inside the HRV, and install new, fresh filters.
    Some filters can be washed. If you have washable filters that are very dirty, try soaking them in lukewarm water and mild soap. Rinse and air-dry.
  2. Clean the exhaust grills in the kitchen and bathrooms.
  3. Clean the fresh air and exhaust hoods outside your home.

EVERY YEAR

You’ll need to clean the core once a year. Most cores can simply be removed and cleaned with a vacuum. They can also be soaked in mild soapy water, rinsed, and left to air dry. It’s a good idea to do this in the spring or fall when your HRV system isn’t working as hard.

Remember to vacuum out bugs and cobwebs and wipe the inside of the cabinet before replacing the core. Clean the drain tray and check for clogs. If you notice a clog, try pouring two liters of warm water through the drain.

HRVs AND HUMIDITY

Humidity levels vary as the outside air temperature changes. You can use your HRV to control the humidity in your home and reduce condensation on your windows.

Outside air temperaturePractical humidity level
-35°C20%
-30°C25%
-25°C30%
-18°C35%
-10°C40%
-5°C45%
0°C50%
Summer100% or off

MAKE IT EASY WITH AN ADVANCED HRV CONTROL

An advanced HRV control can reduce your energy bill by matching your HRV ventilation needs with your lifestyle. It automatically cycles the HRV on and off to keep your home at your set humidity level. Some controls can even detect the temperature of the incoming air and adjust the humidity set-point control accordingly, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting your HRV controller to match the changes in outdoor air temperature.

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Low carbon economy fund

LOW CARBON ECONOMY FUND: SUPPORTING NATURAL GAS Energy EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS IN MANITOBA

Providing ways to reduce energy bills for Manitoba homeowners and businesses, while protecting the environment is an important part of the work we do. That’s why we’re excited that approximately $32.3 million from the Government of Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund has been announced to support our natural gas programs.

This funding will support our work to offer incentives and rebates to Manitobans who make natural gas saving upgrades in their homes and businesses. These upgrades include insulating a building heated with natural gas or putting in a smart thermostat. Income qualified customers can receive financial assistance for natural gas furnace and boiler upgrades.

This is exciting news for Manitobans. The upgrades offered through our natural gas programs will help customers save money on monthly energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, these programs will create jobs in Manitoba, as we look towards economic recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Efficiency Manitoba has been created to provide energy and bill savings to Manitobans, along with resulting environmental benefits in the form of GHG emissions reductions. This announcement is great news for Manitobans with approximately 50 per cent of our natural gas energy efficiency programs now being funded through Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund. We look forward to continued work with our private sector delivery partners and local businesses to support Manitoba’s economic recovery efforts while offering great opportunities for Manitobans to save.”


Colleen Kuruluk, CEO of Efficiency Manitoba

Programs, offers, and initiatives that are receiving funding will be identified on our website. As you’re browsing for energy efficiency opportunities, check for this call-out on our program web pages:

Natural gas energy efficiency programs are funded in part by the Low Carbon Economy Fund.

We recognize our role as a leader in energy efficiency and environmental protection – this funding provides an important contribution to our work. We’re excited to help you save energy, money, and the environment.

Learn more about
THE LOW CARBON ECONOMY FUND

About Efficiency Manitoba

Efficiency Manitoba is Manitoba’s Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency. With legislated long-term energy savings targets to achieve, the organization has over 40 diverse offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment.

Release date: January 19, 2021

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