Struggling to stay cool in a sweltering New York City apartment during a summer heatwave? Bundled up in a chilly Minneapolis rental as winter drags on? Or maybe your bill keeps climbing just from keeping the lights on and charging your devices around the clock? No matter where you live, keeping your home comfortable isn’t cheapt. In fact, the average electric bill in the United States is $144.84 per month, adding up to about $1,738 a year for renters.
But just because electricity powers nearly everything in your home—lights, appliances, entertainment, and climate control—doesn’t mean you have to let your bill spiral out of control. With a few smart adjustments, you can keep your apartment cozy (or cool) while cutting down on energy costs. This ApartmentGuide article has everything you need to know.
1. Unplug your appliances
It goes without saying that turning off the lights when you don’t need them can reduce the cost of your electric bill, but did you know that simply unplugging your appliances can help reduce costs, too? Of course, you don’t want to unplug things that need to stay plugged in, like the refrigerator. No one enjoys the smell of 5 accidentally defrosted packs of ground beef.
However, unplugging phone chargers, toasters, hairdryers and other small appliances when they’re not in use can shave dollars off your electric bill every time. Consider getting timed surge protectors or outlet additions that can turn off things that you don’t need to use while you’re not home, like TV cable boxes, modems, routers and the microwave.
2. Cool naturally
One of the biggest uses of electricity in a home, particularly during the summer, is air conditioning. Nearly all air conditioners, whether they’re window units that can be turned on and off or they’re controlled centrally by a thermostat, use electric power to run.
While some hot days are unbearable and it’s impossible to go without A/C, on more temperate days, try to cool your home naturally. Open windows, block out the sun and use fans. Try opening two windows, then place a fan backward in one open window to draw hot air out. This will allow the cool air from the other open window to flow freely.
3. Go green with eco-friendly light bulbs
If you use a lot of lights, try replacing them with eco-friendly light bulbs. There are many types available, and they’re much more durable, longer-lasting and environmentally conscious.
Fluorescent light bulbs are a smarter choice for both your wallet and the environment. Swap out your regular bulbs for energy-efficient fluorescents, then minimize their use whenever possible. Since some can be quite bright, experiment with different options to find the right color and warmth for your space.
4. Clean your air filters
Your air conditioner’s filter traps dust and dirt, keeping the air in your apartment cleaner, but it needs regular replacement to work effectively. Some people try to save money by skipping this step, but a dirty filter makes the unit less efficient, forcing it to work harder or stay on a higher setting to cool your space. This not only increases your energy bill but can also impact air quality. If your “change filter” light is on, or it’s been a while since your last replacement, check with your landlord for a new one, or if the unit is yours, pick up a replacement at a hardware store. The cost of a new filter is far less than what you’ll spend on extra cooling with a clogged one.
5. Upgrade and update appliances
New appliances are much more energy-efficient than old-school dinosaurs. You may not be able to upgrade major appliances in an apartment, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have any control.
Some minor appliances whose newer models tend to be much more eco- and wallet-conscious include computers, TVs, hairdryers, hair straighteners, toasters, and blenders.
6. Seal windows and doors
Sealing windows and doors is essential for maintaining HVAC efficiency and keeping energy costs down. If your home is leaking heated or cooled air, your system has to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. To prevent this, inspect your doors and windows once a year for any drafts. If you notice air seeping in, a simple DIY fix with caulk and weather stripping can make a big difference—just check with your landlord before making any repairs. If moisture is also getting through, it may be a sign that the window needs replacing, which is your landlord’s responsibility. While this might be a bigger expense, it can lead to long-term savings on energy bills, and modern windows are not only more efficient but also built to last, typically for 15 to 20 years.
7. Give your HVAC a break
Small adjustments to your thermostat can make a big difference in energy use. Lowering the temperature by 10 degrees in winter while you sleep or are away can keep you just as comfortable while saving on costs. In summer, ceiling fans help circulate cooled air, reducing the need for constant AC use. Most thermostats are programmable, making these changes effortless, and affordable smart options are widely available. The same goes for your fridge and freezer—set your fridge to 38 degrees and your freezer to 5 degrees to keep things cold without overworking the system.
8. Limit your hot water usage
Hot water adds to your energy bill more than you might realize, but small changes can help. Washing clothes and hands in cold water is just as effective and uses less energy. Shortening your showers by even a couple of minutes can also make a difference without sacrificing comfort. These simple adjustments can help reduce your electricity use while still keeping things clean and comfortable.
While you’re at it, consider installing a shower head with a WaterSense label, which restricts water flow to two gallons per minute, if not less (again, with landlord approval). Such an easy add-on can save the average household about 2,300 gallons per year.
9. Use a smart or programmable thermostat
If your apartment allows it, installing a smart thermostat can make a big difference. These devices automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when you’re not home. Some even let you control the temperature remotely through an app. If you can’t install a smart thermostat, manually adjust the settings—turn the heat or A/C down 10 degrees when you’re sleeping or away to save energy.
10. Take advantage of a home energy audit
Many utility companies offer free or low-cost home energy audits to help renters identify ways to improve efficiency. If you’ve made adjustments but still have a high bill, contact your energy provider—they might offer personalized recommendations or even rebates on energy-saving upgrades.
11. Look into community solar programs
If you’re interested in renewable energy, see if your city or state has a community solar program. These programs allow renters to subscribe to local solar farms, offsetting part of their electricity costs without installing solar panels.
12. Check for tax credits or rebates
Some local governments and energy providers offer rebates or tax incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. While most renters won’t qualify for home improvement credits, some areas offer incentives for installing smart thermostats, LED lighting, or energy-efficient appliances. Check with your local energy provider to see what’s available.
13. Encourage energy-saving habits in your apartment community
If you live in an apartment building, your efforts can have a bigger impact if others join in. Talk to your landlord or property manager about switching to LED lighting in hallways, upgrading insulation in common areas, or installing motion sensor lights to reduce unnecessary electricity use. Small community-wide changes can lower costs for everyone.
14. Use electricity during off-peak hours
We get it—completely avoiding electronics during hot summer months isn’t realistic. But you can time your energy use to cut costs. Many electric companies charge higher rates during peak hours, which usually align with the hottest part of the day. Check with your provider to find out when electricity is most expensive, then try to run energy-heavy appliances—like dishwashers, washing machines, and air conditioning—during off-peak hours instead. Even small adjustments can add up to noticeable savings on your bill.
15. Use your ceiling fans properly
Ceiling fans don’t lower the room temperature but can make you feel cooler by improving airflow. In the summer, set fans to spin counterclockwise to push air down and create a cooling effect. In the winter, reverse the direction clockwise at a low speed to gently circulate warm air without creating a draft.
16. Defrost your freezer regularly
A buildup of frost in your freezer makes the appliance work harder, increasing energy consumption. If you notice ice accumulating, defrosting it can improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary electricity use.
17. Turn off your bathroom fan
Exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen pull out heated or cooled air. While they’re great for removing humidity and odors, leaving them on longer than necessary can waste energy. Try setting a timer or turning them off once the job is done.
18. Cook smarter
Using an oven or stove for extended periods generates heat, making your A/C work harder in the summer. Instead, try using smaller appliances like air fryers, microwaves, or slow cookers, which use less energy and produce less heat. In colder months, take advantage of residual oven heat by leaving the door open after baking to warm up your space naturally.
19. Wash clothes efficiently
When doing laundry, use full loads instead of partial ones to maximize energy efficiency. If possible, switch to a cold water wash and hang clothes to dry instead of using the dryer. Even if you don’t have space for a drying rack, draping clothes over furniture or a shower rod can help cut down on dryer usage.
20. Opt for energy-efficient curtains
Thermal or blackout curtains can help insulate your apartment, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter without overworking your HVAC system. Keeping curtains closed during the hottest part of the day or open in winter to let in sunlight can make a noticeable difference in your energy use.
Saving energy pays off in more ways than one
Cutting back on electricity use isn’t just about lowering your monthly bill—it’s about making smarter choices that benefit both your wallet and the environment. Rent is often your biggest expense, but utility bills can be a close second, making energy efficiency an important consideration. In apartment living, where shared spaces and common areas contribute to overall energy costs, every bit of savings helps. While you may not have control over building-wide consumption, small changes to your personal energy habits can make a noticeable difference. Beyond the financial savings, reducing your electricity use comes with several other perks:
- More money in your pocket – Lower bills mean extra cash for essentials, savings, or leisure activities.
- A more valuable space – Energy-efficient upgrades can increase an apartment’s appeal to renters and owners alike.
- A smaller carbon footprint – Using less electricity helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports sustainability efforts.
- Health benefits – Relying on natural light reduces eye strain, and energy-efficient appliances contribute to better indoor air quality.
- A stronger community – When tenants make energy-conscious choices, it fosters a culture of sustainability that benefits everyone.
