When April rolls around, many people start planning for their upcoming move, preparing to settle into a new home and, often, a new neighbourhood or city. If you’re moving, be sure to add these ten tips to your planning checklist.
1 - Find out the cost of electricity in your new home.
Got your eye on a specific apartment or house but want to know the cost of electricity to make an informed decision? Simply visit our Estimate a home’s electricity costs webpage and enter the building number and postal code. You’ll receive an estimate instantly!
2 - Save $25 by changing your address online.
As soon as you know your future address, log in to your Customer Space to inform Hydro‑Québec of the change. It only takes a few minutes and you’ll save $25!
3 - Advise other government departments and agencies of your change of address.
Do you know that you can change your address at seven government departments and agencies, including the RAMQ and the SAAQ, by using the Service québécois de changement d’adresse
? There are also other sites, like Moving Waldo, that can make this task easier and help you save time. Check them out!
4 - No more surprises! Pay the same amount each month.
A new home means changes to your budget. Whether you’ll be managing fewer expenses or more, an Equalized Payments Plan (EPP) can help simplify your planning. With an EPP, your electricity bill is the same each month, summer and winter alike. It can help make your budget easier to manage.
5 - Opt for smart thermostats. It really pays off!
Moving provides an ideal opportunity to improve your new home’s energy efficiency. Consider switching to smart thermostats if they aren’t already installed.
With Hilo, you can purchase smart thermostats at a low cost or use your own smart thermostats, provided they’re compatible. With these devices, you can automatically adjust the room temperature during peak demand events. This will help you lower your electricity bill while also reducing your ecological footprint.
6 - Give gently used clothing and household items you no longer use a new life.
A move is a great opportunity for a major cleanup. If you have items in good condition that you no longer need, remember that others could make good use of them. Look for the donation centres, second-hand stores or other organizations that accept used items in your neighbourhood.
7 - Speaking of cleanup . . . get rid of paper!
Want to have less paper piling up in your new home? Switch to Online Billing. You can even sign up to receive an email reminder to pay your bill so that you never miss a payment. Also, all your bills are kept in your Customer Space for a period of two years and you can consult them at any time.
8 - In the market for some new appliances? Consider the LogisVert Efficient Homes Program.
When you are shopping for new appliances, consider models that are eligible for the LogisVert Efficient Homes Program. This program provides financial assistance for the purchase and installation of a variety of energy-efficient appliances, such as induction ranges and heat-pump dryers. You’ll use less electricity and save on your future electricity bills.
9 - Check out your new neighbourhood.
Once you’ve arrived at your new home, get to know your surroundings. Go for a walk with your family to explore the area’s parks, walking and biking trails, businesses and community facilities.
10 - And don’t forget the pizza!
Be sure to encourage local businesses. From pizzerias to dry cleaners, cafés and pastry shops, the owners of these businesses will be happy to serve you. You’ll make plenty of new discoveries while contributing to the local economy.
