by Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services

NNSL (Sep 29/97) - The combination of cold, darkness and long winters combines to make the energy costs of living in the North higher than anywhere else in Canada.

The small initial investment required to reduce those costs have long-term savings.

Most of the solutions involve building up barriers, and filling the cracks between the inside of your home and winter's chill.

Northland Utilities manager Firmin Gaudet offered a few easy ways to minimize the costs of the cold season.

"The hot water tank, if it's electric, is a big energy user. To cut down on that you can lower the temperature the water is heated to," said Gaudet. Water heater thermostats should be set at about 55 C.

"Also make sure all your taps shut properly to reduce wasted hot water," added Gaudet.

Electric clothes dryers also use a lot of energy. "My suggestion would be not to use it unless you have a full load," said Gaudet.

Speaking of appliances, think about the location of any refrigerators or freezers you don't need regular access to.

Moving these to unheated areas of the house, such as enclosed porches or garages can result in significant savings.

With the long nights, the amount of energy burned for lighting increases significantly.

A variety of compact florescent light bulbs are now commonly available. Though they cost in the order of $20 a piece, the long-term savings make compact fluorescents a wise choice.

The bulbs, which can be installed in conventional sockets, last about 10 times longer than conventional bulbs and use up to 75 per cent less energy.

Following is a checklist, taken from Alberta Power Ltd. and Yukon Electrical Company publications, of conservation measures you can take before winter arrives.

• Check windows for deteriorated caulking and replace where needed.

• Insulate heating pipes, hot water pipes, air ducts and hot water tank

• Have your furnace checked each year to make sure it's operating at optimum efficiency. Filters on hot air and heat pump systems should be checked monthly.

• If you are living in a poorly insulated home, consider upgrading the insulation. It's a big job, but the costs can often be recouped in reduced energy costs in the first few years.

• Storm windows provide an extra barrier to heat loss and can be made with clear plastic film and a wooden frame

• Weatherstrip doors and windows. Don't forget about those doors leading to unheated spaces such as garages or porches.

• Skirting installed between the bottom of the home and the ground, a gap common on most mobile homes, reduces the chances of pipes freezing and heat lost through the floor.