With economic changes, inflation, and growing living costs, we’ve all found ourselves saving money wherever possible. According to the Ontario Energy Board, the average electricity bill for a one-bedroom apartment can cost from $60 to $110 a month. When you’re budgeting, these costs can add up fast. Even though as a renter you are limited in making changes, you can still make these 9 affordable changes without affecting your comfort.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Lower the thermostat by a degree or two when you’re out or asleep. Never turn it off all the way because the air conditioner will consume more energy to bring the temperature back to comfortable levels. Some thermostats also come with eco-friendly settings.
Switch to LED Bulbs
LED light bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Swap out any existing bulbs with new LEDs. They cost you around $25 for a set of 6. LEDs are also brighter and have a lower heat output, which means they won’t increase the room temperature during summers.
Unplug Idle Electronics
If you keep electronics like air fryer, chargers, TV, microwave, gaming consoles, and hair tools in standby month, they’ll add a few dollars to your monthly electricity bill. Unplug them after every use and if that’s too much of a hassle, get a power strip, so you can turn multiple electronics at once.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Curtains
Heavy curtains act as insulators and keep warmth inside during winters and cool air during summers. They might be a little expensive upfront but have a long life. Get neutral colours, so you can use them elsewhere too.
Use Fans Strategically
Instead of running the air conditioner at low temperature all summer, use portable fans. They circulate air and when it gets hot, you can set the fan to rotate counterclockwise to push cool air down. And for winters, use a space heater with a fan to evenly distribute the heat.
Opt for Energy Star Appliances (if possible)
Most apartments come fitted with a cooktop, oven, and a fridge but if you need a microwave, space heaters, and fans, choose Energy Star-rated appliances. Typically, they consume 10-15% less energy.
Control Everyday Energy Use
Keep a list of things to switch off before leaving your apartment. Take shorter showers at a lower temperature, plan ahead to thaw food in the food rather than using the microwave, cut down screen time and include physical activity for tech-free time.
Discuss Energy Concerns with Your Landlord
If you feel any quick fixes or upgrades can save money significantly, bring it up to your landlord because it’ll help them too. They may discover that all apartments in the building need only a small change to be more energy efficient.
Be Mindful in the Kitchen
Use the microwave for quick jobs like heating food or liquids as they consume less energy than the stove. Bake in the evening when it’s cooler outside, so your air conditioning doesn’t have to work as hard. If you have a dishwasher, run it at night at discounted energy prices and skip the heated dry cycle. Let the dishes air dry overnight.
Plan smart and keep up with your efforts. For more apartment blogs, follow Barr Developments.
