10 Tips for Renters

Energy Star has put together a list of 10 tips that can help those who rent an apartment, townhouse or home save money on their bills and help save energy. 

1. Replace the 5 most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs with ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). This can save up to $65 per year! Also, remember to turn off the lights when leaving a room.
2. Consider purchasing a room air conditioner that is ENERGY STAR qualified. Be sure to insulate well so that outside air does not come inside.
3. Install a programmable thermostat if possible to automatically adjust the temperature when you are away or sleeping.
4. Remember to unplug battery chargers when not in use. Consider a power strip for multiple plugs so that you can easily unplug and avoid paying for 'phantom energy' costs.
5. Take a shorter, ten minute shower and replace your shower head with a low-flow shower head. This can use even less money than taking a bath. Also, remember to run your bathroom ventilation fan for 15 minutes before and after bathing to avoid excess moisture.
6. Make sure all air registers are clear of furniture so air can circulate freely.
7. During colder months, keep drapes and blinds open during the day to let in the warmth of the sun. During the summer, keep them closed to keep your home cool.
8. Scrape dishes before loading them into the dishwasher, and use the air-dry option if available.
9. Wash your laundry through cold cycles whenever possible. And, wash full loads to save water.
10. Use the moisture sensor on your dryer to avoid over drying your clothes. Also, remember to always clean your lint trap before drying a new load. This can save you $34 a year!

Find even more tips on the Energy Star website here: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.es_at_home_tips 

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