Smart Ways to Slash Your Apartment's Electricity Bill

Year-Round Energy-Saving Tips

Before diving into seasonal advice, here are some everyday actions you can take to start saving now:

• Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs which use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Appliances: Most rentals use energy-efficient appliances and run dishwashers and laundry machines during off-peak hours to save on utility costs. Be sure to ask about this when you’re touring a new apartment!
• Home Office: Whether you WFH or have an elite gaming setup, it’s vital to equip your workspace with smart power strips! Make sure you utilize energy-saving modes on electronics to reduce phantom energy loss.
• Windows: Utilize your curtains and blinds effectively to control temperature; open them to let sunlight warm your home naturally during the day and close them at night to keep the heat in.

Spring Savings Strategies

Spring's mild weather is perfect for setting up efficient and energy-saving habits:

• Natural Ventilation: Take advantage of the breezy spring weather, and open windows to cool your apartment naturally, reducing the need for turning on the air conditioning early in the season.
• Appliance Use: Electricity rates can vary depending on the time of day due to the demand put on the grid. So using appliances during off-peak hours, like early morning and late at night can reduce your energy bill! You can also consider air-drying clothes and dishes to save even more money.



Summer Energy-Saving Techniques

Combat the summer heat without causing a spike in your energy bill:

• Cooling: If your household can stand it, keep your air conditioning at an economical 74-78 degrees when home, and higher when away unless you’re in a pet-friendly rental – fido needs to be cool too! You can utilize ceiling and box fans to also aid in cooling.
• Window Treatments: If you’re willing to spend some money, you can invest in blackout curtains or reflective films to reflect heat away and keep your space cooler. But always remember to clear additions with your landlord or property manager before applying.

These items are crucial to keeping your apartment cool in the warm summer months!



Fall Focus on Efficiency

Get ready for the colder months, (especially in the Midwest!) while you’re still enjoying the crisp fall air:

• Heating Preparations: Reach out to your landlord or property manager to ensure that your heating system has been serviced, all filters have been replaced, and it’s ready to take on the chilly season.
• Light Adjustments: Prepare for shorter days by double-checking that the lighting in your home is efficient and possibly consider sensor-activated floor lights for early evenings.

Winter Ways to Reduce Bills

Keep warm during winter without overspending on heating:

• Insulation: Use window insulation kits and thermal curtains to keep warm air inside your rentals this winter. Also, consider adding throw rugs on any hard flooring to help hold in heat!
• Mindful Heating: To prevent spending too much on heating, lower your thermostat a few degrees, especially when you're asleep or out of the house, to significantly reduce your heating costs. But remember to think about your pets as well!

Are you still looking for more winter heating tips? Don’t worry! We’ve curated an in-depth guide to keep your apartment warm and cozy this winter!



Implementing these general and seasonal energy-saving tips will help you enjoy a comfortable apartment while managing your electricity costs effectively. Each small change accumulates to noticeable savings and contributes to a greener planet.