Energy efficiency is something everyone needs to work harder at. Yet when you live in an apartment, it can feel difficult. You don’t have the control to upgrade to more efficient appliances, for instance, or to choose more eco-friendly flooring or building practices. While many modern apartment communities are focusing on energy-efficient improvements, many of those decisions are out of your control. Yet there are ways you can make your apartment more energy efficient. Here are some tips that can help you save energy and money.
Cover Bare Floors
Bare wood or tile floors are quite popular in modern apartment buildings, but they may not be the most energy efficient, particularly in winter. If you find yourself with cold toes and the need to turn up the heat, consider adding an area rug to the floor. This can trap the heat inside your apartment, so you can lower the thermostat and save.
Choose the Right Window Coverings
Windows allow a lot of the heated and cooled air in your home to escape. Since you can’t change the windows, why not change the window coverings? Thermal curtains block heat gain or loss all year long, so your heated and cooled air stays where it should be. In the winter, consider opening the curtains during daytime to allow the sunlight to warm your space, but in the summer, keep the curtains closed so you limit your air conditioning use.
Uncover the Vents
When you’re placing furniture around your apartment, make sure it does not cover vents. This will redirect the air in the wrong place in your apartment, causing the heating and cooling system to work harder to keep your home comfortable.
Pay Attention to Cords
One way you lose electricity in your home is through the outlets. When you leave your electronics plugged in when not in use, they continue to consume a slight amount of electricity. Unplugging them eliminates this loss without impacting your use. Just plug them back in when you’re ready to use them again! If you have trouble remembering to unplug, consider a smart power strip that will cut power to the items when not in use.
Upgrade the Thermostat
Finally, if you have the freedom to do so, upgrade the thermostat to a smart option. This will allow you to control the heating and cooling system when you are not home, so you aren’t wasting energy heating an apartment when you aren’t home to enjoy it.
In a luxury apartment, there are plenty of things you can do to make the home more efficient. Use these tips to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills lower.
