Save up to 3% on your heating and cooling bills for every degree you can adjust over an 8-hour period. Bump your setpoint down in the winter and up in the summer. Space heaters can be costly – only use them for temporary use in an occupied room.
If your unit is equipped with its own washer/dryer and dishwasher, washing clothes in cold water and running full loads in the dishwasher can help save energy. Clean the dryer lint trap after each load for maximum efficiency. Use eco settings if available.
Take short showers and use a low-flow showerhead, if allowed. Standard tubs use between 30 to 50 gallons of water. Water heating can account for 12 percent of your energy use if your unit has its own water heater.
Many devices draw energy even when they aren’t in use. Unplug unnecessary items and use power strips/smart plugs to shut devices off at the switch such as gaming consoles, printers, coffee makers, microwaves, etc.
Replace any light bulb, especially ones that burn more than one hour per day, with a lightemitting diode (LED) bulb and shut off lights in unoccupied rooms.
In the winter, open south-facing blinds and drapes during the day to maximize solar gain and close them at night. Keep them closed in the summer. Consider insulated drapes to reduce drafts and improve comfort.
Clean refrigerator coils once a year to extend the life of the appliance and save on your power bill.
Arrange furniture so that it doesn’t block air registers or heating and cooling equipment. Proper airflow makes the HVAC system more efficient.
Report energy efficiency issues such as noticable drafts, gaps or plumbing leaks to your landlord or property management. Sealing gaps can lower energy costs and improve comfort.
