Winter Energy-Saving Tips for Renters and Apartment Dwellers

Energy-Saving Challenges in Winter

Thermostat control: Your heating system works harder when it’s cold outside. Outdated systems can result in inconsistent environmental control and reduced efficiency.

Limited insulation: A lack of proper insulation in your walls, floor and roof (if you live on the top level) allows heat to escape.

Air leaks: Drafty doors and windows let in cold air, so your heating system runs more frequently to maintain a reasonable temperature.

Shared heating: Multi-unit complexes share heating systems. You may face wasted energy when you crank your settings to compensate.

Limited natural light: Shorter days mean you can’t rely on natural light to heat your apartment. You’re also more likely to leave lights on longer, too.

Tips to Reduce Winter Energy Costs in Your Apartment

Add Layered Textiles

Hardwood, laminate and tile floors are common in modern apartments, but they don’t retain warmth very well. Placing rugs can insulate your feet against the cold, so you’re less inclined to turn up the heat. Pile cushions, throw pillows and blankets on your couch and bed to protect yourself from the chill, and wear socks around the house to regulate your body temperature.

Manage Electronics and Appliances

Even if you’re not using them, appliances still pull energy if they’re connected to an outlet. Unplug your toaster, coffeemaker, blender and other kitchen gadgets when you’re done using them to cut electrical costs. Heated blankets and space heaters can also draw large amounts of energy, so use them safely and sparingly.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

Using cold water while you’re doing laundry reduces the energy your water tank uses to heat each load. That also cuts down the amount of electricity required to complete a cycle. You’re also less likely to damage or shrink clothing fibers.

Use Your Oven

Cooking generates ambient heat that warms the surrounding area. Leave your oven door open after you’re done making food to allow the heat to dissipate into the room. Preparing food on your stovetop is another way to release heat in your kitchen.

Seal Doors and Windows

Gaps around doors and windows cause air leaks that let in the cold, requiring your heating system to work harder to maintain a set temperature. You can apply plastic film to the inside of your windows to create an insulating layer that seals against heat loss. Thermal curtains prevent drafts and help retain warmth generated by the sun during the day. Door stoppers, draft snakes and even rolled towels can block frosty chills from coming inside.

Install Energy-Efficient Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs can waste energy as heat. Replacing them with LED alternatives allows you to save on electricity while illuminating against dark winter nights. Those bulbs also last longer than traditional options and come in a variety of tones and colors to suit your preferences. If you’re decorating for the holidays, LED lights can drastically reduce your energy consumption, especially if you leave lights on for long periods. Some power strips have timers that let you control how long your lights stay lit, too.

Close Off Empty Rooms

There’s no sense in heating or lighting an unoccupied room. Closing off empty rooms allows you to concentrate heat where you need it. Shut vents and doors in unoccupied rooms to avoid wasting warmth. You can make adjustments so the heat is directed into whichever room you’re in during the day. That allows you to maintain your comfort without having to increase the overall thermostat setting. Turn off lights and appliances after you leave the room, too.

Stay Warm in Your Ardent Communities Apartment

Make yourself at home in an apartment or townhome in Columbus, Ohio. Ardent Communities has a variety of properties in and around the greater metropolitan area that include single- and multi-room suites. View our locations and contact us to schedule an in-person tour.