Complete Energy Efficiency Guide for Apartments

Energy efficiency isn't about sacrificing comfort—it's about getting the same comfort with less energy. In apartments and small homes, small changes can make meaningful differences. This guide covers practical approaches that work for renters and owners alike.

Core Principles

Efficiency Before Restriction

The goal isn't to use less by being uncomfortable. It's to use less while maintaining the same level of comfort. An efficient approach keeps you just as warm in winter and just as cool in summer—it just does so with less energy.

Focus on the Big Users

In most apartments, the majority of energy goes to:

• Heating and cooling: Usually the largest share
• Hot water: Often the second largest
• Refrigeration: Runs constantly
• Lighting: Varies by habits and bulb types

Focus improvements on these areas first for the biggest impact.

Small Changes Add Up

No single change will transform your energy use. But many small improvements together create significant reduction. Don't dismiss something because it seems minor.

Heating & Cooling

Climate control typically uses more energy than anything else in a home. See our detailed heating and cooling guide for more.

Temperature Settings

• Each degree of setback reduces energy use noticeably
• Dress appropriately for the season indoors
• Use blankets and layers rather than raising heat
• Allow temperature to drift when away or sleeping

Stop Air Leaks

Conditioned air escaping (and outside air entering) wastes energy:

• Check around windows and doors for drafts
• Use weatherstripping and door sweeps
• Cover window AC units in winter
• See our draft sealing guide

Use Windows Strategically

• Winter: Open curtains on sunny windows during day; close at night
• Summer: Block direct sun with curtains, shades, or films
• See our window efficiency guide

Lighting

Switch to LED

If you haven't already, LED bulbs use a fraction of the energy of incandescent bulbs and last much longer. They're now available in warm color temperatures that match the light quality of traditional bulbs.

Lighting Habits

• Turn off lights when leaving a room
• Use task lighting instead of lighting entire rooms
• Take advantage of natural light during the day
• Consider dimmer switches or smart bulbs for flexibility

Appliances

Refrigerator

• Keep it at appropriate temperatures (not colder than needed)
• Ensure door seals are intact
• Don't block vents inside the fridge
• Keep it reasonably full (mass helps maintain temperature)

Washer and Dryer

• Wash with cold water when possible
• Run full loads
• Clean the dryer lint trap every load
• Consider air drying some items

Electronics

• Many devices draw power even when "off"
• Use power strips to cut power completely
• Unplug chargers when not in use
• See our phantom loads guide

Daily Habits

Cooking

• Match pot size to burner size
• Use lids to speed cooking
• Use smaller appliances (toaster oven, microwave) when appropriate
• Don't preheat longer than necessary

Hot Water

• Shorter showers use less hot water
• Fix leaky faucets promptly
• Wash dishes efficiently (don't run water constantly)
• Run dishwasher only when full

For Renters

Renters often can't make permanent changes, but many improvements are still available:

What Renters Can Do

• Switch to LED bulbs (take them when you move)
• Use removable weatherstripping and draft stoppers
• Add window insulation film or thermal curtains
• Manage thermostat settings within allowed ranges
• Control phantom loads with power strips
• Adjust personal habits (lighting, hot water, etc.)

Working with Landlords

For larger improvements, some landlords are receptive if you explain the benefits. Energy-efficient units are often more attractive to future tenants.