7 Simple Ways Apartment Dwellers Can Cut Down On Energy Use
Small actions can lead to big savings.
When talking about energy efficiency and green living, homeowners get a lot of attention and advice. But what about those who choose to live in apartments and condominiums? It’s not like they wouldn’t like to save some money on their costly energy bill each month.
Here are seven easy ways you can get significant savings on your utility bills, plus a few bonus tips on making for a greener world.
Switch to LED Lighting.
LED lights have really come into their own these days. They work just as well as traditional incandescent bulbs but last longer and use less energy. You’ll save money on replacements and your utility bill. LED lights also tend to run cooler than traditional bulbs, so your lighting won’t be contributing to the heat during the summer months.
Say No To Vampire Power
Appliances and other devices that continue to draw energy even while turned off are referred to as “vampire power.” Make a habit of unplugging coffee makers, cellphone chargers, televisions, and other devices that are only used for a part of the day. You’ll save on a significant amount of your energy bill — possibly up to 40 percent! This chore can be made easier by running some items off a power strip with an on-off switch.
Tweak Your Thermostat Settings
What do you usually set your apartment’s thermostat for in the winter and summer? Changing your room temperature by only two degrees down in the winter and up in the summer can save you a lot on your next utility bill. A winter sweater is cheap in comparison and saves you big money in the long run.
Live In a Green Building
Apartment community developers are becoming more aware that environmental awareness, waste, and the high cost of utilities are all factors apartment seekers look for when choosing a place to live. It’s with that in mind that more and more new apartment buildings are going green and becoming NGBS Green Registered Buildings. They do a lot of the work for you with Energy Star appliances, optimized heating and cooling controls, energy-efficient lighting, and more. Many even have select storage areas for bikes for those who choose to pedal their way to work.
Fill Your Machines Before Using
Washing a half load of laundry or just a few dishes in your dishwasher is a waste of both water and energy. Wait until you can do a full load before turning on either. Dishes don’t necessarily have to be done every night if it’s just you and maybe one other person. Wait another day until your machine is full, then run as usual.
Cover Up Your Windows
Depending on where you live, one of the nice parts of living in an apartment is enjoying the view. However, you don’t need to keep your views on display all the time. Doing so may be costing you money. Add thick drapery or shades to your large windows. Doing this can significantly reduce heat loss in the winter. During the summer, effective use of shades can help keep your apartment cool.
Use Less Hot Water
A typical shower setup uses about two and a half gallons of water per minute. If you can trim five to ten minutes from your regular shower routine, you can save between 12 and 25 gallons of water — water that doesn’t need to be heated and water that doesn’t need to be pumped up to your apartment.
You can also save on energy costs by washing your clothes in cold water and using the energy efficiency option on your dishwasher. Both will still clean your clothes and dishes properly and use less energy in heating water unnecessarily.
Reducing Your Carbon Footprint Overall
While you’re saving money on your energy bills, you could also be having a positive impact on the environment by shrinking your carbon footprint overall. Consider some of the following as more ways you can help protect the planet:
Adopt Reusable Bottles
The portion of landfills made up solely of plastic water bottles is obscene. Ditch the throwaway bottles in favor of reusable stainless steel water bottles you can refill at home. Don’t like the water? Water filters that attach to faucets or as part of refrigerated pitchers are getting cheaper to acquire and install.
Cook At Home
Yes, you’re using energy at home when you cook, but you’re also not expending fuel or adding to emissions by driving for takeout or having food delivered. You’re not using wasteful to-go packaging. Plus, the savings in cooking at home more often make up for any costs related to using your oven.
Grow Your Own Greenery
If your apartment has a balcony, a patio, or a sunny window, fill them with plants. Having greenery in your home can lead to cleaner air, which means you won’t need to rely on electric air-cleaning devices. Look into how container gardens work and consider putting in a balcony garden for your favorite vegetables or herbs. If there is space around your building — or even on the roof — talk with your landlord about forming a community garden. Nutritious food and healthy exercise? It’s a win-win.
Reduce Car Use
If you live in a reasonably urban area, consider keeping your car in the parking garage and opting for public transportation, ride-sharing, or biking as an alternative. You’ll save money on not only gas but also maintenance and repairs while also expending less carbon and other harmful fumes into the air.
It’s Easier Than You Think
Living green and cutting down your utility bills doesn’t mean making drastic lifestyle changes or moving to a commune. Most of the suggestions above will have little to no effect on your overall daily life.
Small changes can make big differences, and the more people who make these small changes, the bigger difference everyone makes.
There’s no downside, so why not make it work for you?
About the author
John lives in Rhode Island with his wife, son, and dog. He specializes in tech, health, business, parenting, pop culture, and gaming. Visit wordsbyjohn.net for more info and rates. Twitter: @WordsByJohn2
