When prepping your apartment for the freezing outdoor temperatures, being both cost and energy-efficient can make a big impact. Below are a few tips and tricks to help you live more sustainably and save money!
Lower it!
Don’t forget to turn down the heat on your thermostat when you leave your apartment! By doing so, you will save money and energy, and who wants to pay money for something you aren’t using? According to Energy.gov – you can save up to 15% by simply turning your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours (that’s almost 1% for each degree!).
Check it!
Check the weather stripping around the doors and windows in your apartment. If it looks worn, contact your property manager or superintendent. Also consider buying or making draft stoppers.
Insulate it!
To minimize heat loss, try using insulated curtains and heavy area rugs to keep heat in your apartment.
Caulk it!
Often plumbing areas leave gaping holes between the pipes and the wall leaking heat and wasting energy. Caulk and seal these or use pipe insulation.
Clean it!
Every winter, you should have your furnaces cleaned in addition to regularly changing your filters to maximize efficiency and even reduce the potential risk of fire!
Defrost it!
Prevent frost from forming on your windows by running a dehumidifier at night. Air will become less moist, which will keep the frost from forming on your windows. For a cheaper cleaning alternative for your windows, try using rubbing alcohol. You can also check out these Apartment Guide tips for ways to help your heater run efficiently.
Download it!
Download these apps on your phone to help you live a more “green” lifestyle! Whether you’re on the go or just relaxing in your home, these apps will serve as great resources:
o iRecycle – provides access to more than 1.5 million ways to recycle plus the latest in green news and ideas to match your lifestyle
o Goodguide – makes it fast and easy to find safe, healthy and green products both in a store or on the go
o FindGreen – helps you find local businesses and resources to live a sustainable lifestyle
*Methodology: Apartment Guide looked at their data for the top cities with the most properties noted with green communities. Properties listed on Apartment Guide as green communities provide offerings/certifications such as LEED certification, energy-efficient windows, lighting and plumbing and drought-resistant landscaping to reduce water waste.
