Conservation & Efficiency Tips for Renters#

Conservation & efficiency for renters can be divided into three categories:

• Doable (easy for all; behavioral changes for TODAY)
• Moveable (not free but can be brought with you to next home)
• Approachable (large upgrades that require landlord approval and input)

Doable#

These are small behavioral changes you can adopt TODAY to make a difference! Encourage roommates to do the same and you can each save money, make your home more comfortable, and help the environment. 

Tips for the Doable category:

• Do laundry and chores that use energy during off-peak hours. If you can avoid or reduce energy use during on-peak hours, also referred to as Time of Day (TOD), you can save money. 
  • Winter on-peak hours are 5pm - 9pm
  • Summer on-peak hours are 2pm - 7pm
  • Learn more about our specific winter tips
• Reduce water usage by turning off the water when not in use. Conserve more water in daily activities by not running water when you are doing the dishes and brushing your teeth, and taking shorter showers. Only run the dishwasher once it is full. 
• Determine optimal heating and cooling settings with your roommates:
  • Winter optimal setting for conservation is 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Summer optimal setting for conservation is 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Take advantage of smart (programmable) thermostats if you have one in the house already.
• Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Do NOT flush "flushable wipes" or anything else to avoid clogged pipes and then having to potentially pay a costly plumbing bill. 
• Put fats, oils, and grease in the trash and NOT down the drain.

Click here for more tips!

Moveable#

These efficiency upgrades aren't free but they can come with you if you move to another location!

Tips for Moveable upgrades that can help you save money and energy:

• Mobile heating or cooling unit: temperature control only the rooms you use.
• Energy saving blinds: trap the heat in the winter and keep cool in the summer.
• LED light bulbs: you can get these free through an LCCC assessment at fcgov.com/lccc
• Water efficient shower heads and faucet aerators: also free through LCCC!
• Weatherstripping & air sealant for your home.
• Smart power strips: these help decrease energy consumption!

*Many moveable upgrade items can be purchased through the Efficiency Works Store.

Visit the Efficiency Works Store

Approachable#

These are larger upgrades that require landlord investment. The city offers many programs, including financing for these upgrades, through the Epic Home Loan.

Upgrades in the approachable category include:

• Heat pump installation to replace your HVAC system
• Heat pump water heater installation
• Energy Star appliances
• Weatherstripping or insulation upgrades
• Programmable Thermostats

Tips for approaching larger energy efficient upgrades as a renter:

• Make your landlord aware of conservation and efficiency programs (ways they can save, find incentives and get rebates!)
  • Send them to fcgov.com/epichomes to learn more!
• Keep an eye, and ear, on appliances and pipes in your house! If you need to talk to your landlord, suggest great ways to upgrade appliances and improve comfort in the house. 
• Potentially problematic sounds to be aware of:
  • Grinding
  • Knocking
  • Loud buzzing
  • Clanging
  • Rattling
  • Whooshing sounds
  • Loud popping
  • Scraping