Renters Guide: Tips for Energy Efficiency

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Cutting back on energy costs can require major home improvements, like installing solar panels on your home. Large home projects are not usually included in a rental agreement, but there are many adjustments you can make to lower your electricity bills. 

Your monthly energy bills are directly influenced by the amount of electricity you consume. For example, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) says air conditioning expenses account for 12% of the average energy bill. If your home isn’t energy efficient, it may cost even more to cool your home during the summer months. Increased electricity usage results in higher energy bills. Learn more about how to save money and energy as a renter.

Energy saving tips for renters

• Understand energy usage. Read your energy bill to review and understand your electricity usage. Try the SaveOnEnergy usage calculator to estimate where you consume the most electricity and determine ways to lower your usage.
• Replace the air filter every three months. Ensure efficient operation and reduce the risk of allergies by replacing your air filter. This prevents your HVAC system from exerting extra effort to circulate air throughout your home. 
• Use energy-efficient lighting.Choose LED light bulbs to consume less energy. You can also reduce lighting costs by turning off lights in unused rooms.
• Unplug devices. Appliances consume electricity, even when not in use. Unplug items like phone chargers, toasters, and gaming consoles you might normally leave plugged in when you aren’t using them. Consider using power strips to turn everything off at once.
• Adjust your thermostat.When you are not home for long periods of time, adjust your thermostat closer to the temperature outside so you avoid paying to heat or cool an unoccupied apartment or home. Consider installing or requesting a smart thermostat to program the temperature automatically.
• Eco-friendly laundry day.Wash your clothes in cold water to reduce the electricity used for heating. Learn more with our full guide to laundry-related energy savings.
• Keep air vents and radiators clear.Ensure efficient heating and cooling in your home by avoiding the placement of furniture over air vents or radiators. This blocks airflow and causes your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. 
• Use rugs as insulation. During cold months, putting rugs on hardwood floors can create more insulation and help keep your apartment or home warm. 
• Shower efficiently.Take shorter showers or lower the temperature on your water heater. Consider investing in an energy-efficient showerhead to save on energy costs each year.
• Weatherstrip your windows. Use weatherstrips to keep air conditioning and heating inside your home and prevent outside air from coming in. SaveOnEnergy’s guide to weatherstripping covers the different types of weatherstrips and how to install them.

What home improvements does renters insurance cover?

If your apartment or rental property is damaged due to events like fire or theft, your renter’s insurance may cover energy-efficient improvements. Before making any changes, review your policy details about personal liability insurance for renters and check with your landlord. Here are a few examples of what you could modify, repair, or replace. 

• Energy-efficient light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Energy-star-rated appliances
• Upgrade insulation
• Water-saving fixtures
• HVAC system upgrades
• Smart tech home gadgets

Energy-saving tips for landlords

Property owners and landlords can make several improvements to increase home value and help renters save on electric bills. Consider some of the following strategies to increase your property’s energy efficiency.

• Install smart tech. Smart home technology and gadgets, like thermostats and energy monitors, help you understand and manage electricity usage. Installing smart home gadgets to your property helps tenants save on energy bills. 
• Invest in energy-efficient kitchen appliances. Choosing energy-efficient appliances can make a huge difference in energy costs. For example, an Energy Star-certified refrigerator uses between 15%–40% less electricity than non-certified models. The upfront cost may be more expensive, but it saves you money over time on energy bills. 
• Adjust your water heater’s temperature.If your tenants do not have access to the water heater, consider lowering the temperature to reduce heating costs.
• Property maintenance. Promptly respond to reports of leaky faucets, toilets, or broken appliances. Malfunctioning appliances are not working efficiently and can increase your energy bill.
• Consider renewable energy options. Installing solar panels can reduce electricity bills and increase your property value. Consider learning more about solar energy and how it can benefit your home.

Solar for renters

If you cannot install solar panels on your apartment or rental home, community solar is an alternative to save on electricity bills. Community solar is a subscription service where you support the development of solar farms and receive renewable credits on your energy bill. Most programs, like Arcadia, do not require a credit check or long-term contract. Community solar participants can save 5%–10% on their energy bills.

With these tips, you can reduce your energy consumption — and your electric bills — in your apartment or rental home. Find more ways to save on energy costs with our Learning Center or explore cheaper electricity rates offered by energy providers at SaveOnEnergy.