Words (Core Vocabulary)
- energy audit / home assessment
- insulation / air sealing / weatherstripping / draft
- thermostat / setback schedule / heat pump / high-efficiency furnace
- LED bulbs / ENERGY STAR appliances / smart plug
- time-of-use rates / peak vs. off-peak
- power bar / phantom load / standby
- low-flow showerhead / aerator
- compost / recycling / e-waste / depot
- rebate / incentive / grant
Phrases (Assess → upgrade → daily habits)
Getting started
- Do you offer a home energy audit and rebate advice?
- Which upgrades (insulation vs. heat pump) save the most for my home type?
Utilities & rates
- What are the time-of-use rates, and how can I shift laundry/dishwasher to off-peak?
Simple wins
- Could you help me program a thermostat schedule?
- Do you take e-waste like old laptops, or where’s the nearest depot?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Contractor call: We’re considering a heat pump—is there a rebate and what’s the payback?
- Utility chat: Can you switch me to e-billing and show off-peak times?
- Quick fix: We added weatherstripping—drafts are gone and the room’s warmer.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Efficiency
- schedule an energy audit
- add insulation
- seal drafts
- install a heat pump
- upgrade to LEDs
Smart usage
- set a thermostat schedule
- shift use to off-peak
- unplug phantom loads
- use a smart plug
Waste reduction
- drop off e-waste
- compost organics
- recycle properly
- claim rebates
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many provinces/utilities offer rebates for heat pumps, insulation, and efficient appliances—ask what’s current.
- Time-of-use billing may change by region; shifting heavy loads to off-peak can save money.
- Electronics should go to e-waste depots—not in regular garbage.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Audit: “Could we book a home energy audit and review rebate options?”
- TOU: “When are off-peak hours, and what should I shift to save?”
- Depot: “Where can I drop off old electronics and batteries?”