How to Save Energy (and Money) when Renting an Apartment

Whether your apartment is considered all-inclusive or if you have to cover some of the utilities yourself, it’s everybody’s responsibility to reduce the amount of energy they use, regardless of whether the costs are coming out of your own pocket. Reducing your apartment hydro bills will not only save you (or your landlord) some money, you’ll also be doing your part to help save the environment, which is just as important. If you’re looking to cut back on your energy consumption, all you need to do is follow these handy everyday apartment rental energy-saving tips.

Lighting

1. Turn off lights when they aren’t in use.
2. Use compact fluorescent lights instead of regular incandescent light bulbs. While they are more expensive initially, fluorescent bulbs will pay for themselves many times over in the long run, as they consume about a quarter of the power and last up to 10 times longer than regular bulbs.

Heating and Cooling

1. Use a fan during the summer months instead of an air conditioner. However, if you have to use an air conditioner, keep it on a lower setting and at a slightly higher temperature. Don’t forget to turn off your A/C when leaving the apartment – most window units cool the apartment very quickly, so there’s no need to keep them running while you’re away.
2. Close window shades during the day, particularly if your apartment has windows that receive direct sunlight.
3. Open windows at night when there is a breeze.
4. Seal windows with plastic during the winter.
5. If you control your heat in the winter, turn down the thermostat when you are not home, and at night.
6. Install an energy-efficient showerhead in the bathroom to reduce your hot water usage.

Furniture and Electronics

1. Arrange your furniture in a way that doesn’t block or obstruct any heat vents, radiators or baseboard heaters. This includes drapes or curtains; not only will they block the heat from entering your apartment, but it’s a fire hazard too!
2. Turn off and unplug appliances when not in use.

Cooking and Storing Your Food

1. Minimize the number of times you open the oven, refrigerator and freezer doors.
2. Match the size of any pots or skillets you use on the stovetop elements. There’s no need to use the energy required to heat up the largest element when you’re only using the smallest pot in the kitchen.
3. Reduce cooking times by thawing frozen foods in the refrigerator beforehand.
4. Don't overcrowd your fridge, or unfill your freezer.