How to Lower Your Utility Bills in a Rental
Renting doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high utility bills. With a few simple, renter-friendly tweaks, you can cut costs without breaking your lease or making permanent changes. Here’s how to save money on electricity, water, and internet—no renovations required.
Adjust Your Thermostat Habits
Heating and cooling are often the biggest energy drains. Try these easy fixes:
- Set your thermostat to 68°F in winter and 78°F in summer when home—adjust by 7-10°F when away.
- Use a programmable thermostat (if allowed) or a smart plug with temperature controls.
- Close vents in unused rooms to direct airflow where needed.
Stop Drafts and Use Curtains Wisely
Drafts waste energy year-round. Renters can:
- Apply removable weatherstripping around doors/windows.
- Use heavy curtains in winter to retain heat; open them on sunny days for free warmth.
- In summer, close blinds during peak heat to keep rooms cooler.
Swap to LED Bulbs and Smart Plugs
Lighting upgrades are landlord-friendly and pay off fast:
- Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs (they use 75% less energy).
- Use smart plugs to schedule electronics (like lamps) to turn off automatically.
Unplug Vampire Devices
Many devices suck power even when "off." Combat this by:
- Unplugging chargers, gaming consoles, and small appliances when not in use.
- Using power strips to cut phantom loads with one switch.
Optimize Laundry Efficiency
Cut water and energy use with these habits:
- Wash clothes in cold water—modern detergents work just as well.
- Run full loads and air-dry when possible.
- Clean the dryer lint trap after every use to improve airflow.
Compare Internet Plans Regularly
Many renters overpay for internet. Try:
- Calling your provider annually to ask for promotional rates.
- Switching to a cheaper plan if you don’t need ultra-fast speeds.
- Using sites like NoFeeNest to find rentals with included utilities—some by-owner listings even cover internet.
Ask About Budget Billing
Utility companies often offer budget billing to smooth out seasonal spikes:
- Your provider averages yearly costs for predictable monthly payments.
- Ideal if you struggle with winter heating or summer AC bills.
Lowering utility bills in a rental is all about small, reversible changes. Start with one or two tips, track your savings, and build from there. And if you’re hunting for a new place, check out NoFeeNest for no-broker-fee rentals—some include utilities, giving you even more savings.