Energy Awareness 101: Tips for Renters
- msmith627
- Oct 28
- 3 min read
Renting your home doesn’t mean you’re powerless when it comes to saving energy and saving money. While major upgrades may be off the table, there are plenty of simple, low-cost changes renters can make to improve comfort, cut energy bills, and reduce emissions. From smarter habits to easy DIY fixes, here are some renter- friendly ways to boost energy efficiency — no landlord permission required.
Energy Efficiency
As a renter, there are many ways to save energy (and utility costs) contribute to increase your energy efficiency without making big changes that may require your landlords approval.
Detecting where air leaks are is the first step to find areas that can be better weatherized and keep your apartment more insulated during the cooler months.
Temporary weatherization techniques will be beneficial in sealing up those air leaks to keep your apartment warm and reduce heat loss, while saving you money.
About 30% of a home's heating energy is lost through windows. Explore window treatments that can help prevent wasted energy (and money!). Some of these treatments do not require landlord approval.
An easy but impactful switch to LED light bulbs will make electricity use more efficient, save you money on your electrical bill, and will use up to 90% less energy than their counterparts.
Did you know that a smart power strip actually stops using electricity when there isn’t a device in use? This stops energy from flowing into the cord an will save an average home $200 in electrical expenses.
Shower with power! Replacing your showerhead with a WaterSense labeled showerhead can save up to 2,700 gallons of water a year, while saving you money on fuel sources that heat your water.
Did you know Renters can support Renewable Energy?
Renters can decide where their electricity comes from, this means subscribing to a community solar project or a third party green energy supplier. See the options below.
There are many third party green energy suppliers that you can subscribe to to ensure your electricity is coming from a renewable energy source.
Joining a voluntary program called Maine Green Power, that supports local renewable energy by purchasing renewable energy certificates. This program can be used from electricity providers such as Central Maine Power and Versant.
Community solar is also an option, similar to third party energy suppliers, community solar projects are subscription based and give you discount credits on your utility bill.
Rewiring America has a guide on how to Electrify Everything in Your Home. This guide is an easy to understand step-by-step process on how to switch to electrical appliances and how to save money. This guide also offers solutions for renters!
Tips and Tricks
Take advantage (or don’t) of the natural light. Open shades during winter days to let in warmth, and close them at night to keep it in. In summer, keep them closed during the day to block out heat.
Control the thermostat responsibly by not going above 68°F when home, and keeping it lower when asleep or away. We’re Mainers, lets layer up instead of turning up the heat!
Wash smarter by using cold water, run full loads, and air dry when possible to save energy and reduce wear on your clothes.
See resources for DIY energy saving projects to tackle this year. There are some options for renters as well!
Last but not least, if there is an appliance that needs to be upgraded in your apartment, ask your landlord to purchase an EnergyStar appliance. These appliances are energy efficient and will save both you an your landlord money!
Talk to Your Landlord About Energy Upgrades — It’s a Win-Win
If you’re renting, it’s worth starting a conversation with your landlord about energy upgrades like insulation, weatherization, or heat pump installation. These improvements can reduce heating costs, boost comfort, and increase the property's value — all while making it more attractive to future tenants.
Heat pumps are especially compelling since they offer both heating and cooling, a feature that’s increasingly in demand. And with many incentives available right now (some for a limited time), it’s smart to take advantage while they last. In multi-unit or owner-occupied homes, upgrades can also help reduce split-cost concerns between owners and tenants.
