When temperatures spike, apartment living can get uncomfortable in a hurry. That is even more frustrating when utility bills start rising at the same time. If you are like many renters, you want to stay cool without paying an outrageous electric bill every month. The upside is that there are practical, renter-friendly ways to keep your home comfortable while improving energy efficiency. Let’s look at some easy strategies you can use to keep your apartment cool and build summer energy savings over time.
Why Summer Energy Bills Rise So Quickly
One major reason for high energy bills in the summer is the air conditioning unit. In fact, central air conditioning accounts for about 19% of all electricity used in the U.S., which helps explain why cooling costs rise so quickly. The more effort it takes to keep your apartment cool, the more your utility bills tend to increase. Several common issues can quietly place extra stress on an AC unit, including:
- Choosing a thermostat setting that is too low
- Sunlight coming directly through windows
- Inadequate indoor air circulation
- Running heat-producing appliances
Every one of these contributes to the larger problem of expensive electricity bills. But even simple changes can help your air conditioner work more efficiently and soften the impact on your utility bills.
Renter-Friendly Ways to Block Window Heat
As a renter, you may not be able to change how your apartment was built or how well it is insulated, and those structural factors often affect indoor temperature control. But you can still use window treatments to block direct sunlight and help keep your home cool. That can reduce how often the AC needs to run.
For example, windows that receive a lot of direct sun benefit from blinds or shades that stay closed during the day, helping block heat from entering your home. If it is permitted, reflective window film can help keep out even more sunlight and UV exposure. Another renter-friendly option is thermal or blackout curtains, either on their own or paired with additional window treatments. Even small efforts to block sunlight can make your apartment noticeably cooler.
How to Find and Seal Apartment Air Leaks
Another useful step is to prevent cool air from escaping your home and improve energy efficiency by identifying air leaks. One easy check is to place your hand near window seals and exterior doors. If you feel a draft, cooled indoor air is slipping out.
Once you locate a gap, adding weatherstripping or draft blockers is often enough to help. There are many renter-friendly options that won’t damage structures but can help reduce or minimize drafts and air leaks. Those modest changes will help your home maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Improve Air Circulation with Fans
One easy way to reduce the workload on your air conditioner is to improve your home’s indoor air circulation. Ceiling fans can help spread cooled air, but make sure the blades are set to spin counterclockwise for summer so they push air down and create a wind-chill effect. That can help rooms feel cooler even at higher temperatures.
When ceiling fans are missing or you want more air movement, additional portable fans can still help. Positioning them near windows during cooler morning or evening hours can bring in outside air and help give your air conditioner a break throughout the day.
The Best Thermostat Settings for Summer Savings
Thermostat settings can be surprisingly personal, but there is still a sweet spot between comfort and energy savings. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when you are home to maximize your savings. Even if your preferred setting differs, small changes can still help reduce your overall energy usage. Raising the temperature slightly may help you see real savings in your electricity bill each month, and a programmable or smart thermostat can help monitor usage when permitted by your landlord.
To save the most energy, turn your thermostat up 7 to 10 degrees higher when you are away from home for 8 hours. It may seem like the system would work harder later, but the energy saved while you are gone outweighs the energy needed to cool things off when you return.
Daily Habits to Keep an Apartment Cool Without AC
Another smart way to stay comfortable through the summer and ensure maximum energy efficiency is to build a personal cooling routine. Many everyday tasks create heat indoors without drawing much attention, including cooking, laundry, and even certain light bulbs.
Keeping your home cool in the summer can begin with routine changes, like using an outdoor grill or a slow cooker instead of heating up the stove. Installing LED bulbs helps, and so does saving major appliance use for cooler morning or evening hours. Make sure air vents stay clean and clear of furniture so cooled air circulates well and your air conditioner operates as efficiently as possible. Even small changes to a daily routine can lead to meaningful utility savings over time.
Address Cooling Problems Early
When attempts to optimize your air conditioner’s performance are not helping, a bigger issue may be affecting the system. If the apartment will not hold a consistent temperature, utility bills suddenly spike, or you notice other signs that your AC isn’t working properly, the problem may be mechanical. In that situation, reach out to your management early and ensure that mechanical issues are resolved promptly.
Looking for a comfortable rental home with comfort-focused features? Contact Real Property Management Dairyland today to learn more about our quality rental properties in Milwaukee and find a home you can enjoy year-round!
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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