Rentals come in all different shapes and sizes. Finding the right place can be difficult. Most times we are more concerned with location and aesthetics than we are with how much those utility bills might cost us. Most likely, landlords will do enough to make the space habitable but not energy efficient. So here's your quick guide of Do's and Do Not's on getting energy efficiency in a rental property.
Do Not
- get an apartment on the first floor with no insulation or air sealing between the apartment and basement
- get an apartment on the top floor with little to no insulation or air sealing in the attic space
- get an apartment with single pane windows
- live in a room with knee walls that are not air sealed properly
- have hot water through an oil boiler with domestic hot water
- live in a room with recessed lights leading to an attic space unless they are air sealed properly - this is a potential fire hazard and energy loss
- get oil heat - unless apartment is well air sealed and insulated
- get electric baseboard - unless apartment is well air sealed and insulated
Do
- try to find an apartment where heat and hot water are included in rent
- look for gas heat or high efficiency heat pump
- look for central air when available - this is more comfortable and efficient than window A/C units
- use a programmable thermostat
- upgrade to CFL or LED (preferrered) light bulbs - then swap out and take them with you when you move to a new residence