Renters can save energy with inexpensive projects

February 10, 2008

Everything I hear about saving energy requires a big investment. I rent a townhouse, so I don’t feel like investing in my landlord’s property. What can I do?

It’s true that energy-efficiency improvements often include adding insulation or installing new windows, which just aren’t practical for a renter to do. But you should know that renters are welcome to contact us at 360-992-3355 to schedule a free energy audit. Our energy counselors will offer specific advice on what you can do to save energy. But here are some generic low-cost improvements and simple lifestyle changes you can make to cut energy use.

Heating
Heating is the largest energy user in your home. For every degree you lower the thermostat for an eight-hour period, you’ll save 1 to 2 percent on your heating bill. Be sure to turn down the thermostat when you sleep or are away.

If your townhouse or apartment has zonal electric heat, have the thermostat checked for accuracy. We’ve found some older thermostats are “off” as much as 5 to 10 degrees. Take advantage of the fact that zonal heat lets you heat just the space you’re using. Close off unused rooms, with the heat on low.

Keep furnace filters clean so the furnace operates at its best. You may have to ask your landlord to do this, or to instruct you on how to change filters. Do not block heat registers with drapes or furniture and keep registers clean and free of objects.

Use inexpensive foam insulation found in cans at hardware stores to seal holes in the exterior of your apartment, such as where the cable line enters, and where sink drains enter exterior walls. If you feel cold air entering around doors, install weather stripping. It’s inexpensive and easy to install. At a minimum, block drafts at the bottom of the door with a rug.

Single-pane windows and patio doors can account for significant heat loss and drafts. Inexpensive window insulation kits, which form a plastic seal over the window, are available at hardware stores. They offer a solution and are relatively easy to install. Or close the drapes on cold days and at night. Open them when the sun shines to let the solar heat warm the room.

Lighting
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact florescent bulbs (CFL), which use one-quarter the amount of energy as an incandescent bulb. Remember to turn off all lights when they’re not needed.

Appliances and electronics
Turn off appliances and electronics such as TVs when not being used. Unplug devices such as cell phone and laptop computer chargers when done charging. If practical unplug external power adaptors – those clunky black boxes – when the gadget is not in use. These boxes continue to use electricity as long as they are plugged in. You’ll have to use your judgment whether this is practical to do, since many adaptors also run internal timers and memory.

Dust or vacuum the refrigerator coils and make sure the refrigerator doors close tightly. If it isn’t tight, you may need to change the gasket around the door. 
 
Finally, include energy efficiency as a criteria when searching for your next rented apartment or house. Ask the landlord how much monthly utility bills run and how well insulated the rental is. Check to see if it has double-paned or storm windows. Many landlords are improving the efficiency of their rentals, recognizing that units rent quicker, experience less turnover and their property’s value is increased. As renter, remember the price you’re paying is more than the monthly rent. You’ll be paying the energy bill each and every month as well. 

Note: low-income grants
Some renters may qualify for a low-income weatherization grant, operated by Clark Public Utilities and Clark County. Both owner-occupied and rental houses, including manufactured homes, are eligible if the occupants meet certain income guidelines. For information, call 360-992-3000 or visit the utility’s Web site at www.clarkpublicutilities.com.