With the cost of living increasing every year, saving where you can helps. By reducing your monthly energy bill you will add money to your pocket and help the environment. So here is a list of our favorite tips to help you conserve energy in your apartment.
Turn Off Lights
This is not the first time you have heard the concept of turning off the lights. During the daytime try to rely on natural light flowing through your windows. When you head out for the day flip off as many switches as possible to keep your energy bill low.
Bonus Tip: Replace your light bulbs with fluorescents or LEDs. This simple switch uses 75% less electricity than traditional light bulbs, which in turn will save you money.
Unplug
Since you are already remembered to turn off those lights on your way out, you should opt to unplug electronics from outlets and switch off power strips. It may seem like your TV and coffee maker is off, but they could just be on standby, which still uses electricity. When you unplug your electronics or switch off their power source you can be certain that you will be conserving electricity.
Bonus Tip: Opt for devices with built-in, energy-saving features. For example, some cell phone chargers “unplug” internally when no phone is connected.
Bigger the Better
You have guest coming over and you might be tempted to throw a few bowls in the dishwasher and start a cycle, or just wash that work shirt you need that day. Try to avoid this and fill up each load, whether it be in the dishwasher or the washing machine. Each will use the same amount of electricity to run, no matter how full they are. Maximizing loads maximizes the value of your hard earned money.
Bonus Tip: By using cold water as much as possible you will lower energy usage. Electricity is used to heat the water.
Temperature Control
If you’re planning to be out of your apartment for a long day or you are going on vacation, it’s wise to adjust your thermostat by 3 degrees. For example, if you normally keep your temperature around 72 degrees, increase it to 75 degrees when you head out. You shouldn’t notice too much of a difference, and you can save energy and money by doing this simple adjustment. In the winter you can do the same thing, setting it to 65 degrees instead of 68.
Bonus Tip: Before coming into the house and immediately adjusting your thermostat because it is an extra cold day out. Wait for your body to adjust to the temperature of your apartment and throw some slippers on. After 10-15 minutes you might not feel the need to increase the temperature after all.
The key to reducing energy usage and save money in your apartment is to stay diligent. Before you leave each morning, look around and switch off the lights, unplug your electronics, and flip the thermostat. You’ll be amazed at how much energy you can save and how much more money will have.