If you’re a renter and you pay your own utility costs, it makes sense to do everything you can to control your energy use.
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Many of the ideas in our Energy Savings section work for renters as well as homeowners. But we understand that it’s unlikely or even impossible for you as a renter to take on some tasks — like adding insulation or upgrading windows. So, to make it simpler, here we’ve pulled together some important information and key energy tips just for renters:
Investigate before moving
When you’re looking for an apartment or rental house, don’t just look at the rent; figure in heating costs, too. A newer apartment constructed to newer building codes will probably be more energy efficient than an older apartment that hasn’t been weatherized or has single-pane windows. Before signing a lease, ask if it’s possible to see past utility bills — winter and summer — to get some idea of how much you might pay for rent plus energy.*
*Keep in mind that your circumstances may vary based on your actual energy usage.
Heat wisely
Your circumstances may vary, but a good rule of thumb for cooler months is to set your thermostat to 68 degrees when you’re home during the day and 55 when you go to bed or when you’re away. Open window coverings during the day to capture free solar heat. Move furniture away from heat registers and cold-air returns to allow the heat to circulate. And remember that if you dress for the season, you can save on heating costs — wear layers in cooler months and save the shorts and tank tops for hot weather.
If you have zonal heat — baseboard heat, wall heaters or radiant heat — turn down the thermostat in rooms you’re not using and close the doors. Also, vacuum the grills regularly. For more information, see our zonal electric heat fact sheet.
Cool efficiently
During warm weather, leave open as many windows as you safely can at night to catch cool breezes (but don’t open ground floor windows if that leaves you open to crime). A box fan in the window can draw out hot air or blow in cool night air — and uses less energy than an air conditioner. Set up two on opposite sides of your home to circulate the air. In the morning, close windows and curtains when the air temperatures are still cool to block the sun and heat. If you do use air conditioning, to maximize energy saving keep the thermostat set to 75 to 78 degrees during the day when you’re home, and 85 or warmer at bedtime or when you’re away.
Watch your hot water
Lower the thermostat on your electric water heater to 120 degrees. (Ask for your landlord’s help with this, and make sure the power to your water heater is turned off at the main electrical panel. See complete instructions in our Tips for Quick Savings section.)
Don’t let the water run while shaving or doing dishes. If you have a dishwasher, use the energy-saver selection and run it only when it’s full. If you have a clothes washer, wash in cold water whenever possible. Take quick showers instead of baths. Ask your landlord to fix any leaky faucets. When you leave on vacation, turn off your water heater at the circuit breaker panel. It will take a half hour or so to reheat the water, but you’ll save energy all the time you’re away.
Cook smart
Use a microwave or toaster oven instead of the regular oven when possible. Set your refrigerator thermostat to 37 to 40 degrees and your freezer to 5 degrees; setting it lower just wastes energy. Full refrigerators and freezers run more efficiently. Clean the coils behind or under the refrigerator. Defrost the freezer before frost gets to 1/4 inch.
Lighten up
Switch from regular incandescent light bulbs to energy-saving compact fluorescent light bulbs. According to manufacturers’ estimates, they use up to 70 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer. (You can switch the bulbs back when it’s time to move and take the CFLs with you.) And remember to turn off lights when you leave a room.
Turn off
It’s a myth that leaving a computer on will extend its life. When you’re done using it, turn it off. Same goes for televisions, stereos and other equipment.
Smooth out seasonal bill swings
PGE’s Equal Pay plan can even out the seasonal ups and downs of your electric bill. Based on your past usage, Equal Pay bills you the same amount each month, and it doesn’t cost extra.
Consider low-cost improvement projects
If you live in an older rental that needs energy-efficiency improvements, talk to your landlord. You might even weigh the benefits of taking on some low-cost projects yourself; a little investment could save a lot of energy. But before doing any work yourself, be sure to first get permission from your landlord. Some projects that may be appropriate include:
- caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows (but don’t seal the moving parts shut)
- using spray-on insulating foam to seal around holes where pipes exit the wall
- replacing old shower heads with low-flow models
- installing temporary storm-window kits (do this in the fall)
Also, make sure your landlord knows that there are cash incentives from Energy Trust of Oregon and energy tax credits from the Oregon Department of Energy to help rental property owners pay for weatherization improvements. There are links to more information in the Money Back section of our Web site.
Renters who meet certain income guidelines might qualify for special no-cost weatherization programs through the Oregon Department of Energy, but your landlord must agree to have the work done.
