With an extensive background in energy management and grid security, Christopher Hailstone is a leading voice on how our changing climate impacts everything from large-scale electricity delivery to the bills we pay at home. As our go-to utilities expert, he offers critical insights into building a more resilient and efficient energy future, one household at a time. We discussed the surprising connection between extreme weather and daily habits, how small changes can lead to significant savings, and the smartest ways for homeowners to invest in energy efficiency for the long haul. The conversation also explored common myths about energy use and how interactive education can empower us all to make a difference.
As extreme weather events become more frequent, how does this trend impact household energy consumption, and what are the most effective, simple changes homeowners can make? Please share a few practical examples that have a noticeable effect on utility bills.
It’s a direct and powerful relationship. During a heat dome, we see a massive spike in air conditioning use, and in a polar vortex, heaters are running nonstop. This puts an incredible strain on the grid and a similar strain on household budgets. The most effective changes are often the simplest ones that manage your home’s “envelope.” For instance, simply adjusting your thermostat by two degrees—lower in the winter and higher in the summer—can cut your heating and cooling costs by a noticeable margin. Another huge one is tackling drafts. You can literally feel the cold air seeping in around windows and doors, and that’s your money escaping. Spending an afternoon applying weatherstripping and caulk is one of the highest-impact, lowest-cost actions you can take.
You emphasize that small energy-saving actions can have a significant impact. Can you quantify this for a typical family? For instance, what are the potential annual cost savings or kilowatt-hour reductions from two or three specific, low-effort changes?
Absolutely, the numbers are more compelling than people think. Let’s take two common scenarios. First, phantom power—the energy electronics draw even when turned off. By using smart power strips to completely cut power to your entertainment center and home office setup when not in use, an average family can save up to $100 a year. Second, let’s talk about hot water, which is a huge energy consumer. Simply lowering your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and installing low-flow fixtures can save another $50 to $100 annually. These actions feel small, but together, they can easily save a family hundreds of dollars and prevent hundreds of kilowatt-hours of unnecessary energy generation each year.
For homeowners planning renovations or attending events like home and garden shows, what key energy-efficiency upgrades provide the best return on investment? Could you walk us through the decision-making process for choosing between options like new windows versus a heat pump?
This is a fantastic question because it’s where people can make truly transformative choices. While shiny new windows are appealing and do improve efficiency, they are very expensive and the payback period can be decades long. For most homes, the single best return on investment is upgrading the HVAC system to a high-efficiency heat pump. A modern heat pump can be over 300% efficient, meaning it moves more energy than it consumes. It provides both heating and cooling in one unit, dramatically slashing your heating costs compared to an old furnace or electric baseboards. My advice is always to start with an energy audit to identify your home’s biggest weaknesses. If your attic insulation is poor, start there. If your furnace is 20 years old, the heat pump is your best bet. Windows should often be one of the last major upgrades after you’ve sealed the envelope and updated your mechanical systems.
To motivate people to adopt new habits, education must be engaging. What are some common misconceptions people have about their home energy use, and what interactive methods have you found most effective for demonstrating the real impact of energy-saving tips?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that the most significant energy use comes from things we actively see, like lights. People will meticulously turn off lights but leave multiple devices plugged in 24/7, not realizing that the cumulative phantom power draw from their TV, computer, and chargers can be a constant drain. At events like the BC Home + Garden Show, interactive displays are key. We use a kilowatt meter, which is a simple device you plug an appliance into, to show people the real-time energy draw. When you plug in an old incandescent bulb next to an LED and they see the meter spin for the old bulb, their eyes light up. We also use thermal imaging cameras to show them the heat literally leaking out of a poorly sealed window frame. Making the invisible visible is what truly clicks for people and motivates them to change their habits.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
My best advice is to cultivate curiosity about your own home. Don’t just pay your utility bill; look at the usage charts and see how it changes with the seasons. Walk around your house on a cold day and feel for drafts. Think about which appliances you use most and research more efficient alternatives for when it’s time to replace them. Energy efficiency isn’t about sacrifice; it’s about being smarter and more comfortable in your own home. By making small, conscious choices every day, you not only lower your bills but also contribute to a more stable and sustainable energy system for everyone.
