Staying prepared throughout the year helps protect your home, family, and community. Each season brings unique challenges, and a few simple steps can make a big difference in staying safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
Spring/Summer Preparation Tips
Be ready for the season ahead with these safety and preparedness tips. Taking a few simple steps now can help you avoid unexpected costs, inconveniences, and risks when the weather changes.
- Storm season can mean outages. Check that your emergency kit is stocked and have a plan in case an outage lasts for an extended time. Are you prepared?
- Downed powerlines are dangerous. Stay at least 10 metres (33 feet) away from any downed line and always call to report it.
- Decorating or gutter cleaning? Keep ladders and tools at least 3 metres (10 feet) away from overhead powerlines.
- Think you know powerline safety? Test yourself with our quiz!
- As temperatures warm up, consider unplugging space heaters or winter equipment still in use.
- Avoid running major appliances like laundry machines, dishwashers, and ovens during the hottest part of the day. Choose smaller appliances like microwaves instead of ovens to reduce heat and energy use.
- Switching to cold water and air-drying laundry is an easy way to cut back on electricity use.
- Scheduling seasonal maintenance for your cooling system can help ensure it’s ready for hotter months. Clean or replace air conditioner filters regularly to keep systems running efficiently.
- Adjust your thermostat or smart schedule as outdoor temperatures become milder.
(Entegrus bills on behalf of the City of St. Thomas, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, and the Village of Newbury)
- Water lawns and gardens wisely:
- Water early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation.
- Only water when needed, and consider using a rain barrel to collect water.
- If using a sprinkler system, adjust sprinklers so water lands on your lawn and not on driveways or sidewalks and use timers to avoid overwatering.
- Take a water-smart approach to spring cleaning, use a bucket instead of a running hose for outdoor cleaning. Sweep driveways and patios first, then rinse only when necessary.
- Be mindful when filling pools and hot tubs - Filling large volumes of water can significantly increase your bill. Spread filling over time if possible, and use a cover to reduce evaporation.
- Know where your water meter and shut-off valves are so you can act quickly in an emergency. If you cannot access your shut-off valve, contact us for assistance.
- Check for leaks after the winter thaw. Cold weather can cause pipes, outdoor taps, and irrigation lines to crack or shift. Inspect for drips, pooling water, or unexplained usage. Even a small leak can add up over time.
- Water lawns and gardens wisely:
- Stock essentials: Flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, and any medications you may need. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials such as a blanket, flashlight, booster cables, water, and snacks.
- Change ceiling fan direction to push cool air down in warmer months.
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during peak sun hours to reduce indoor heat.
- Try running ovens, dishwashers, or laundry early in the morning or evening.
- Use fans in occupied rooms to help circulate cool air — just remember to turn them off when you leave.
- Vacation Tip: If you’ll be away, consider raising your thermostat a few degrees to reduce cooling costs when you aren't home.
- Rates are set by the Ontario Energy Board annually and take effect May 1. Time-of-Use and Tiered rate plans also switch to winter hours and thresholds.
- Review your current rate plan in My Account to ensure you’re on the best option with our Rate Plan Comparison Tool. (Select ‘Price Plan and scroll down to Compare/Switch Price Plans)
- Learn about your rate plan options on our Customer Choice webpage
- Learn about Energy Assistance programs available
- Consider Pre-Authorized Payments with Budget Billing to help manage and predict your monthly charges.