Ten easy ways to save energy in your rental

Don't let renting hold you back from living in an energy-efficient apartment. With a few simple steps, you can reduce your energy use, help the environment, and save money on your utility bills. Plus, you don’t need to make any permanent changes to your unit. Here are 10 effective ways to use less energy in your rental:

1. Adjust your thermostat
   Save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs by turning your thermostat down by 10 degrees for eight hours a day. If you can control your apartment’s thermostat, lower it before bed and while you’re away.
2. Draft-proof your outlets
   Feel for cold air coming through your outlets on cold days. Use gaskets to seal them up and keep the drafts out. Gaskets are easy to plug in and remove when you need to use the outlet.
3. Switch to LED light bulbs
   LED bulbs use significantly less energy than incandescent or fluorescent lights. Replace your current bulbs with LEDs to save money and reduce energy consumption.
4. Unplug idle devices
   Phantom power, or the energy used by devices when plugged in but not in use, can add up. Unplug devices like phone chargers, power strips, and toasters when you’re not using them, or invest in smart power strips that automatically turn off electricity.
5. Wash clothes on cold
   Running your washing machine on warm or hot cycles uses a lot of energy. Use cold water instead, which cleans your clothes just as well and saves energy in the process.
6. Seal off your air conditioner
   Air conditioning units consume a lot of energy. Properly seal the area around your window-unit AC to prevent outside air from entering and offsetting your AC’s effectiveness.
7. Use a low-flow showerhead
   Consider reducing the time you spend in the shower and using a low-flow showerhead. It uses less water than traditional showerheads and saves energy.
8. Don’t block air registers
   Avoid placing furniture in front of air registers, as this can hinder proper airflow and make your apartment’s heating and cooling system work harder than necessary.
9. Utilize natural light
   Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light during the day instead of relying on artificial lighting. This helps reduce energy consumption.
10. Report maintenance issues
    If you notice any energy efficiency problems or maintenance issues in your apartment, report them to your landlord or property management. This way, they can address the issues and make necessary improvements.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy an energy-efficient lifestyle in your rental apartment while saving money and helping the environment.