Saving money and decreasing your carbon footprint are two of the many reasons to conserve energy at home. There are many ways that you can practice energy conservation as a renter that don’t involve making large energy efficiency modifications to your property. Here are some simple energy-saving suggestions for any renter.
Report Leaky Faucets and Flickering Lights
Contact your landlord if you have leaky faucets or flickering lights. Leaky faucets waste water, and flickering lights use extra energy. Bring these issues to your landlord’s attention to save money on your electric and water bills.
Replace Light Bulbs
Replacing old light bulbs is an easy fix to save energy in your home. LED light bulbs use significantly less energy and last longer than incandescent or CFL light bulbs, saving you money on your monthly bill.
Unplug Appliances
Unplug appliances or use a power strip with an on/off switch to combat vampire appliances that drain energy even when they’re turned off. Barring that, turn off appliances when you aren’t using them.
Insulate Your Home
Insulate with curtains and rugs to stop heat from escaping your home. Insulation helps reduce the energy that your heater must expend to keep your house warm.
Talk to Your Landlord About Efficiency Upgrades
Ask your landlord to consider efficiency upgrades. Energy efficiency upgrades lower the property’s carbon footprint and can encourage tenants to stay longer since their home is more comfortable. Upgrades can include switching to ENERGY STAR® appliances, heat pump water heaters, or more efficient water fixtures. If you rent a single-family home, you may also qualify to receive a FREE home energy savings kit and virtual home assessment. Or if you live in an apartment, your property manager may qualify for rebates and technical assistance through MCE’s Energy Savings for Multifamily Properties.
