How to Save Money on Utilities in an Apartment

Rose Morrison

Oct 3, 2022

How to Save Money on Utilities in an Apartment

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Living in an apartment can become costly. You can’t control how much your landlord charges for rent or the additional fees that come with living on their property, but you can reduce your utility bills to relieve some financial stress. This guide explains how to save money on utilities in an apartment without breaking your lease or changing your routine.

1. Change Your Thermostat Settings

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that adjusting your thermostat by one degree could save one percent of your monthly bill. Setting it slightly higher in the summer and lower in the winter means your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) unit doesn’t have to turn on as frequently.

Using your HVAC unit less often results in a more economical electric bill. Save the difference for a few months and you could afford to move to a popular city with more career or social opportunities.

2. Time Your Showers

Do you know long your showers take? Showers require many gallons of water, especially if you like to take your time or use the hot water to relax after a long day. Setting a ten-minute timer ensures you’ll minimize your water usage and reduce your monthly bill.

After getting your new water bill, put your extra money in a savings account to eventually buy a house. Whether you invest in existing real estate or build a dream home that matches your unique architectural interests, saving a little bit every month will accrue enough money to afford your dreams.

3. Upgrade Your Electronics

You can’t control which washer and dryer come with your unit and can’t swap your kitchen appliances for eco-friendly alternatives. Although tenants often feel limited, you have complete control over your electronics.

The latest smart TVs use less than 60 watts per month to operate, making them more efficient than traditional televisions. Look for upcoming sales to modernize your TVs, computers and other electronics by investing in models that minimize electricity consumption.

4. Wash Dishes by Hand

The average dishwasher uses 20 gallons per cycle, which adds up quickly with daily use. Washing your dishes by hand immediately cuts back on your water bill and even reduces your electric bill. Plug your sink and fill it with clean water to wash your daily dishes. You’ll see a difference in your water bill almost overnight.

5. Replace Your Air Filters

When your HVAC unit turns on, it draws air through vents inside your home. After cooling or heating that air, it removes the moisture and pushes it back into your home through the floor or ceiling ducts.

The air withdrawal vents have filters to catch dust and clean the air. Many rental properties replace those vents every two months for tenants, but sometimes that work doesn’t happen.

You can replace them on your own with energy-efficient filters to prevent your HVAC unit from working twice as hard to maintain your thermostat’s temperature. It’ll turn on less frequently and reduce your electricity bill.

6. Switch Your Lightbulbs

Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. Rely on LED bulbs for your lamps and any permanently installed lighting fixtures. They’ll use less electricity when you need extra light in your apartment without breaking any of your lease requirements.

Save Money on Utilities

After learning how to save money on utilities in an apartment, think about trying these tips in your unit. You’ll minimize your monthly spending while you need to rent and maximize how much you can save for your financial goals.

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