As a renter, dealing with high utility bills can be tough. But, there are easy ways to save money without spending a lot or asking your landlord. Just by changing a few daily habits and using energy-saving tools, you can cut down your bills a lot.
The U.S. Department of Energy says renters can really help by using energy-saving bulbs, turning off unused computers, and doing laundry and dishes in cold water. For more tips, check out our detailed guide on lowering energy bills as a renter.
"The most overlooked aspect of utility management for renters isn't technical—it's psychological. When tenants understand their consumption patterns through real data, they experience what behavioral economists call the 'monitoring effect'—simply being aware of usage typically reduces it by 5-15% without any other changes. This is why transparent utility reporting isn't just a convenience feature but a fundamental tool for sustainable living. Property managers who provide clear, accessible utility tracking aren't just helping renters save money—they're facilitating a relationship where tenants become active participants in resource stewardship rather than passive consumers. This partnership approach transforms what could be bill anxiety into empowered decision-making."
Taylor Wilson, CEO of Rent with Clara
Getting a handle on your utility expenses is one of the most effective ways to start saving money. Most renters cover basics like electricity, gas, water, and internet, but many don't realize how much these costs add up until they review their monthly statements.
Taking time to understand where your money goes can reveal surprising opportunities to cut back without sacrificing comfort.
Your electricity bill typically covers lighting, appliances, and electronics, while gas handles heating or cooling and cooking. Water bills include everything from showers to dishwashing, and the internet keeps you connected for work and entertainment.
The amount of energy you use for each varies depending on your habits and the efficiency of your rental's systems, so knowing which utilities hit your wallet hardest helps you prioritize where to focus your energy savings.
Renters usually cover a few key utilities:
Knowing these costs helps you budget better. For more tips on cutting utility bills, check out Tips to save money on utility bills.
Start by reviewing your utility company statements monthly to spot patterns in your electricity use. Many utility providers now offer online portals with detailed breakdowns that show you exactly when you're consuming the most power.
Smart meters give you real-time data, while plug-in energy monitors can track individual appliances to identify which ones are the biggest energy cost culprits in your home.
It's important to track your energy use. Here's how:
By looking at your energy use, you can make smart choices to use less.
Air leaks around windows and doors are common in rentals and can significantly impact on your energy bills by forcing your heating and cooling systems to work overtime. Poor insulation in walls and ceilings makes things worse, especially during extreme weather.
Old, inefficient appliances can also drain energy without you realizing it, so if you have questions about your home's energy performance, a simple inspection can reveal where you're losing money.
Finding where you waste energy is crucial for saving money. Look out for:
Fixing these problems can greatly cut your energy use and bills.
You don't need to spend anything to start reducing the need for excessive energy consumption. Simple habit changes can lower your energy bills immediately, and most of these adjustments become second nature once you get into the routine.
Small changes can make a real difference in your monthly costs. Switching off lights when you leave a room seems obvious, but it's easy to forget—yet this alone can save you around $100 annually.
Take advantage of natural light during daytime hours instead of relying on lamps, and get in the habit of washing clothes in cold water to reduce electricity use from water heating. These energy-saving hacks add up faster than you'd think.
Being mindful of your daily habits can save a lot of energy. Turning off lights, electronics, and appliances when not in use helps a lot. The U.S. Department of Energy says turning off lights can save up to $100 a year.
Your thermostat is a powerful tool for managing home energy use. When you're not at home or you're sleeping, adjust the temperature down in winter (around 68°F is comfortable) and up in summer (78°F works well).
A programmable thermostat automates this for you, so you're not constantly heating or cooling an empty apartment. This is genuinely one of the most effective steps you can take to lower your electricity costs without feeling uncomfortable.
Hot water accounts for a huge chunk of energy costs, but modern detergents work just as well in cold water. Washing your clothes this way can save you about $60 yearly, while doing dishes in cold water adds another $20 in savings.
Your clothes will still come out clean, and you'll consume less energy in the process—it's a win-win that requires zero effort beyond changing a dial.
Even when devices are "off," many still draw power in standby mode, quietly adding to your electricity bill. Chargers, gaming consoles, and kitchen appliances are common culprits of this phantom drain.
The simplest solution is to unplug items you're not using, or better yet, use smart power strips that cut power automatically when devices aren't active, helping you reduce your electric bill without thinking about it.
Tip: Unplug your electronics, chargers, and appliances when not in use to stop phantom energy use.
Spending a little upfront can lead to significant energy savings over time. These affordable upgrades are renter-friendly and will pay for themselves within months through lower your energy bills.
Swapping out incandescent bulbs for LED lights is probably the easiest upgrade you'll make. LEDs use less energy and last years longer than traditional bulbs—we're talking 25,000 hours compared to just 1,000.
They also run cooler, which means less strain on your cooling system during summer. The upfront cost is slightly higher, but the overall energy savings make them worth every penny, and they're energy efficient enough that you'll notice the difference on your next bill.
Regular power strips just give you more outlets, but smart versions actively fight phantom energy drain. They detect when devices enter standby mode and automatically shut off power to those outlets, which is designed to help you reduce electricity waste without lifting a finger.
If you've got a home entertainment setup or computer station with multiple peripherals, these strips can deliver noticeable energy savings each month.
You can't tear into walls to add insulation, but draft stoppers, window film, and thermal curtains work surprisingly well as temporary fixes. Placing draft stoppers at door bottoms stops cold air from sneaking in during winter, while window insulation kits create an extra barrier against heat loss.
Closing blinds during the day in summer keeps your place cooler, reducing the need to blast the AC. These solutions are affordable and removable, making them perfect for renters.
Low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators are cheap, easy to install, and significantly reduce water consumption without affecting pressure. Since many utility expenses include water usage, these devices help you save on multiple fronts.
The best part?
When you move out, you can unscrew them and take them with you to your next place, making this a portable investment in energy conservation.
Heating and cooling systems typically account for nearly half of your home's energy use, making them prime targets for savings. Managing these costs doesn't mean suffering through uncomfortable temperatures—it's about being strategic with when and how you use your HVAC system.
Setting your thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer when you're home strikes a good balance between comfort and energy costs. When you're away or asleep, lower the temperature by a few degrees in winter or raise it in summer to reduce your electric bill without noticing much difference.
A programmable thermostat makes this automatic, so you're not constantly adjusting settings or worrying about forgetting to change them before leaving.
Good airflow helps distribute heating or cooling more evenly throughout your space. Ceiling fans are great for this—run them counterclockwise in summer to create a cooling breeze, and clockwise in winter to push warm air down from the ceiling. Opening windows at night during warmer months lets cool air in naturally, reducing the need to run your AC constantly. Just make sure furniture and curtains aren't blocking vents, as restricted airflow forces your system to work harder and uses more home energy.
Good airflow and ventilation are key for comfort. Here are some tips:
Air leaks are sneaky energy costs that many renters overlook. Hold a lit candle or incense stick near windows, doors, and electrical outlets—if the flame wavers or smoke drifts, you've found a leak.
Removable weatherstripping and outlet sealers fix these gaps without damaging walls, which keeps your property owner happy while helping you maintain a more efficient HVAC system. Sealing leaks also helps with indoor air pollution by keeping outdoor contaminants from seeping inside.
Spring and fall are perfect for natural ventilation—open those windows and give your HVAC a break. During winter, heavy curtains trap heat inside, while in summer, keeping shades drawn during peak sun hours prevents your apartment from turning into an oven.
Regular filter changes (check monthly) keep your system running smoothly and help you lower your energy bills. These energy habits don't cost anything but make a noticeable difference in overall energy consumption.
For the best efficiency, keep your HVAC system in good shape. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed. For more tips on energy efficiency, visit RBC Royal Bank's guide. Here are some seasonal tips:
How you use your appliances matters just as much as which ones you have. Developing better energy habits around everyday devices can lead to greater energy efficiency without requiring new purchases or major lifestyle changes.
Your refrigerator runs 24/7, so keeping it at the right temperature (around 37°F) and maintaining good door seals prevents it from working overtime. Microwaves and toaster ovens are energy-efficient appliances for smaller meals since they use less energy than firing up a full oven.
When cooking, match pot sizes to burner sizes and keep lids on to reduce cooking time and energy costs. These tips to save on kitchen electricity use are simple but surprisingly effective.
In the kitchen, there are ways to use less energy. Try microwaving or using a toaster oven instead of the big oven. Also, keep your fridge running well. Here's how:
Always run full loads in your washing machine to maximize efficiency—half-empty loads waste water and energy for the same mechanical effort. Using cold water settings is one of the most effective energy saving tips since heating water accounts for about 90% of a washer's energy costs.
Clean your dryer's lint filter after every use to improve airflow and reduce drying time, or better yet, air-dry clothes when weather permits to consume less energy entirely. If your dryer has an Energy Star rating, use its moisture sensor setting to avoid over-drying.
In the laundry room, small changes can save a lot. Wash clothes in cold water and dry them outside. Here are more tips:
TVs, gaming consoles, and sound systems can be high energy users, especially when left on standby. Adjust your TV's brightness and enable power-saving modes to lower your electricity consumption during use.
When you're done watching, turn everything completely off rather than leaving it on standby. Smart power strips make this easier by automatically cutting power to devices when they're not active, helping you reduce your electric bill without remembering to manually unplug everything.
Electronics and entertainment systems use a lot of energy. Turning them off when not used helps a lot. Try these:
A small drip might seem harmless, but water leaks can waste thousands of gallons annually and spike your utility expenses unnecessarily. Check under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater regularly for moisture or water damage.
Your water meter can help detect hidden leaks—turn off all water in your home and if the meter still moves, you've got a problem. Report any leaks to your property owner immediately since quick repairs protect both your wallet and the property from damage.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, finding and reporting water leaks saves money. Regular checks can prevent damage. Here's what to do:
By being smart about appliance use, you can save money. You'll also live more sustainably.
By following the tips in this guide, you can start saving energy and money. Simple actions like changing your daily habits and adjusting your thermostat can make a big difference. These changes can help you save a lot on your utility bills.
Choosing energy-efficient options helps the planet too. The U.S. Department of Energy says these choices can cut down on carbon emissions. By adopting these habits, you'll save money and help the environment.
Begin with small changes in your daily life. Over time, these habits will become easy for you. This way, you'll save money on your bills and live more sustainably.
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