Homeowners have more control over energy consumption than apartment dwellers but there are ways you can do your part to save energy in an apartment as well. The main areas of inefficiency in an apartment are the fridge, the oven and the air conditioner. If you change the way you use those appliances in your apartment you too can lower your energy bills and save yourself money.
The refrigerator is an energy draining machine. However, there are things you can do to keep it running more efficiently. Two of the main things you can do to save energy are to keep it pulled away from the wall slightly so air can circulate and vacuum the back condenser coils every year. These two tips will prevent your refrigerator from overheating and over running. Another energy saving tip is not to allow the ice buildup in the freezer get any thicker than ¼” before you defrost it. Too much ice buildup doesn’t allow for proper sealing. Also, check door gaskets for wear and replace any worn door gaskets they are important for keeping cool air in and warm air out.
Cooking can take a lot of energy, especially when you use the oven. Make sure to avoid preheating the oven and don’t open the door when you are using it. Not only will the elements turn on to bring the temperature back up, it will release heat into the apartment which will increase cooling costs in the warmer months. To take energy efficiency one step further, try to avoid using the oven whenever possible. Microwaves are built to save energy so any cooking that can be done in them should be. Stoves run off of 220 volts not your standard 120 volts, meaning they pull 100 volts more energy than your standard microwave plug-in. Never use the oven to warm the apartment when it is cold.
To lower costs during the summer try closing shades and blinds to prevent the sun from adding to the heat. When you are not home turn the air conditioning off, and if you find it too hot when you return, install a timer to turn the air on ½ hour before you get home. Like the refrigerator, keeping the unit clean will help to save energy by keeping the filter and cooling fins in good working condition.
Some apartments come with the appliances already provided and if that be the case you will have to maintain them as best as possible. If you are buying your own appliances than make sure you buy energy efficient ones. If they ever need to be replaced make sure your landlord is interested in the energy efficient models.
Saving energy costs in an apartment may not be as substantial as the amount of energy that can be saved by homeowners but putting these tips to good use will help to save energy and every bit helps our environment as well as our pocket bills.
{ 0 comments }
