Save on Hydro
THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Thunder Bay Hydro is giving an early holiday gift for those looking to save on energy and their electricity bill over the winter months. Today, the utility announced its Block Heater Timer program at a family residence in Thunder Bay. The new initiative offers a free block heater timer to Thunder Bay Hydro customers, to help them save energy while plugging in their vehicles.
“Thunder Bay Hydro is pleased to introduce this new pilot project in Northwestern Ontario. Winter can be hard on your vehicle and your electricity bill. Thunder Bay Hydro encourages families and homeowners to be energy conscious and through this program we aim to provide a new solution to help you save energy and dollars on your electricity bill and avoid that chilly trip out to your vehicle to go plug it in, first thing in the morning or late at night,” says Lesley MacNiven, Thunder Bay Hydro, Supervisor, Energy Efficiency Services.
A block heater timer can reduce energy consumption and save program participants up to $25 a year on winter bills. There are also several benefits for your vehicle.
Jason Ramage, Service Manager at Done- Rite Tire & Auto explains that a block heater keeps your engine warm. “It helps protect several parts and components of your vehicle and makes it easier to get it started, so a timer is very useful. You don’t need to have your vehicle plugged in all day long; that is one of the biggest misconceptions for vehicle owners during the winter months. A service technician would recommend plugging in your vehicle four hours before you need to go somewhere, and you only need to use your block heater when the temperature drops to -15°C.”
The new Save on Energy Block Heater Timer program is a pilot project originating in Thunder Bay, created by the team at Thunder Bay Hydro. It is also being offered by local electricity utilities in Atikokan, Fort Frances, Kenora and Sioux Lookout. Today the very first Save on Energy Block Heater Timer was installed at the Freeborn family’s home in Thunder Bay.
“This is a great initiative for families. I think it’s important we think about saving energy all year long, and a block heater timer will ensure we aren’t wasting energy and will help in maintaining our vehicle and getting us to where we need to go,” says Cheryl Freeborn.
To receive a free block heater timer, simply make an appointment by calling 1-888-855-3106 or by email at BHTPilot@greensaver.org. An Energy Advisor will come to your home to install the block heater timer all free of charge.
“Thunder Bay Hydro understands our customers are unique when it comes to our weather and energy usage throughout the winter months. Our team wanted to provide an alternative during those really cold days to get your vehicle started but not waste so much energy. Thunder Bay Hydro anticipates that thousands will participate in this new program to result in significant energy savings,” continues MacNiven.
