You don’t have to own your property to make improvements that will help maximize your energy use and lower your electric bill. If you rent, you can still make simple energy efficiency upgrades without breaking your lease. Here are some small changes that can add up.
Switch out your lightbulbs
Check to see if your place uses incandescent bulbs. By switching to LED lighting, you can save more than $200 per year, according to the Department of Energy. You can also look for ENERGY STAR certified lights, which use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent lights.
Automatic timers can also help you save. Set your lights to go on or off at specific times each day so you don’t forget and waste energy and money.
Cool down your laundry
You can use less water by selecting the appropriate load size or water setting. Additionally, using cool water in lieu of warm or hot is a great way to reduce your energy use in the laundry room. Cold water does the same job as warm water would unless you’re dealing with stains.
Go a step further and adjust your water heater. By turning it down from 140 degrees to 120 degrees, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars a year.
Utilize smaller appliances
Many meals can be made using smaller appliances. Smaller appliances like your microwave, crock pot or air fryer use less energy than your oven or stovetop.
If your meal requires the oven, turn on the oven light and check on your dish through the window. Every time you open the oven door, the temperature drops by as much as 25 degrees. This makes your oven work harder and use more energy.
Unplug
Devices and appliances that are plugged in but turned off are still using energy. This is called phantom energy or standby power, and it can have a huge impact on your electric bill – costing the average household up to $100 each year. Unplug anything that isn’t being used or consider using power strips with on and off switches.
These tips can help you get started making your rental home energy efficient. Consider sharing this information with your landlord – together you can create an energy-efficient space that keeps you comfortable and helps you save money in the process.
For more tips and resources to save energy and money all year, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
Contact: Brooke Conlan, 330-807-7564
