Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to surrender to high energy bills and drafty windows. While it’s true that homeowners have more options for energy efficiency, apartment dwellers can still take steps to make their spaces greener and their wallets happier. Here’s how to make an apartment energy-efficient with a few clever tricks and energy-saving tips.
1. Seal Those Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are the arch-nemesis of energy-efficient apartments. They let the cold air in during winter and the cool air out during summer. You might not be able to replace the windows, but you can fix drafty windows with some budget-friendly solutions:
- Weatherstripping: Apply adhesive weatherstripping around the window frame to block drafts.
- Draft Snakes: Use draft snakes (or a rolled-up towel) at the base of windows to prevent air leakage.
- Window Insulation Kits: These kits include a plastic film that you can shrink over your windows with a hairdryer to add an extra layer of insulation.
2. Embrace the Power of Curtains
Heavy curtains aren’t just for decoration—they’re your best friend in keeping your apartment energy efficient. Close them during the hottest part of the day in the summer to block out heat, and keep them open on sunny winter days to let natural warmth in. For extra insulation, consider thermal curtains, which can significantly reduce energy loss.
3. Manage Your Thermostat
Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of your energy bill. Learning how to save electricity with your thermostat can make a big difference:
- Programmable Thermostats: If your apartment allows it, install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re not home. Even older thermostats often have basic programming capabilities if a smart thermostat isn’t an option.
- Temperature Settings: Keep your thermostat at 68°F in the winter and 78°F in the summer. Lowering it by just 1 degree can save up to 10% on your energy bill!
4. Combat Phantom Power
Did you know your devices continue using power even when off? This “phantom power” can add up. Here’s how to minimize it:
- Unplug Devices: Unplug electronics when they’re not in use.
- Power Strips: Use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices at once.
- Smart Plugs: Invest in smart plugs that can be programmed to turn off devices automatically.
5. Optimize Your Lighting
Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the simplest ways to save electricity:
- LED Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. They use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer.
- Natural Light: Make the most of natural light to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.
6. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it comes to appliances, choosing energy-efficient models can lead to significant savings. Energy-efficient appliances, especially bigger ticket items like refrigerators and washing machines, can help you save money and energy.
- ENERGY STAR: Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new appliances.
- Energy Settings: Use the energy-saving settings on your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer.
Time to Move? Find Your Eco-Friendly Apartment Today!
If your current apartment community doesn’t fit your eco-friendly lifestyle, it may be time to move. Turn to ApartmentSearch! With advanced filters that let you narrow down your search, you can find eco-friendly amenities in a community that fits all of your needs.
And when it comes time to furnish your new apartment, turn to CORT for your furniture rental needs. CORT products are designed to be used multiple times and then get a new life through CORT Furniture Outlet. Circularity empowers CORT sustainability story – learn more about CORT’s sustainability commitment and get started with the lease package that fits your new space today.
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