TIPS FOR RENTERS TO REDUCE ENERGY USE AND SAVE MONEY
If you’re like most renters, chances are you pay your own power bill. The good news is that there are plenty of ways for renters to take advantage of energy efficiency that will make your home more comfortable and help you save money. We’ve pulled together a few simple tips to help you get started!
SWITCH YOUR LIGHTING TO LEDs
LEDs are an excellent way for renters to save on energy costs, due to their high efficiency. In fact, LEDs are 90% more efficient than incandescent. The best part? With our Efficient Product Installation (EPI) program, you can have LEDs, and other qualifying energy efficient products, installed for absolutely no cost. Book your appointment today.
CHOOSE ENERGY STAR® CERTIFIED PRODUCTS
The ENERGY STAR® label is trusted worldwide as a sign of a product’s high energy efficiency—and there are plenty of products that can benefit renters. From air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and room air purifiers, to everyday electronics, ENERGY STAR® certified products make it easy to save energy. Through our Instant Savings program, we offer in-store instant rebates on many of these ENERGY STAR® products. Find a participating retailer near you.
SWITCH YOUR CEILING FAN DIRECTION
Make sure your ceiling fan is spinning counterclockwise in summer, so the blades push cooler air down. In winter, switch to a clockwise direction at the lowest speed. This will circulate cool air up towards the ceiling to make your room feel warmer. This simple change will keep you comfortable and help save money on your energy bills.
APPLY WEATHERSTRIPPING TO DOORS AND WINDOWS
Weatherstripping keeps the interior air in, making your living space more energy efficient while also keeping rain and water from getting inside. It’s a simple, low-cost enhancement that can lower your heating and cooling costs as a renter. To check if you need weatherstripping, hold a candle near your door or window frame. If the candle flickers, it’s time to consider weatherstripping.
REMOVE DUST FROM DUCTS, COILS, AND VENTS
Dust can collect on your heating system and refrigerator, compromising efficiency. To increase performance and save energy, vacuum the coils and condenser unit under your refrigerator annually. Changing the filter and vacuuming vents on your forced-air heating unit will enhance performance too—along with improving the air quality in your home.
USE CLOTHESLINES AND DRYING RACKS
Give your clothes dryer a rest—and save on energy costs—by using a clothesline or drying rack as part of your laundry routine. Clotheslines and drying racks have come a long way in functionality, and there are various kinds to choose from, including retractable clotheslines, outdoor drying racks, and wall-mounted indoor units. Just find one to suit your living space and start saving!
TELL YOUR LANDLORD / BUILDING MANAGER ABOUT US
We encourage you to talk to your landlord about contacting us to determine if the property qualifies for other energy efficient upgrades. These upgrades will lower energy costs for both the tenant and owner. Contact us at 1-877-999-6035 or info@efficiencyns.ca.