Living in an apartment has its benefits—fewer maintenance worries, no yardwork, and a more flexible lifestyle. But when it comes to energy efficiency, it can feel like renters are stuck between wanting to lower their bills and being limited by what they’re allowed to change.
I used to assume that making a space energy-efficient required big upgrades or homeowner-level access to insulation and HVAC systems. But as I dug into it (and tried to lower my own monthly utility bills), I found that there are quite a few smart, cost-effective steps renters can take to reduce energy use—without a major investment and without breaking any lease agreements.
So here’s a list of nine practical, budget-conscious things I did to make my apartment more energy-efficient. These tweaks won’t revolutionize your life overnight, but they could lead to real savings over time—and they made my living space a lot more comfortable, too.
1. Swapped in LED Light Bulbs
This one’s basic, but it still surprises me how often I see incandescent bulbs in apartments. When I moved in, almost every bulb in my unit was the old-school kind that gives off more heat than light. I replaced them with LED bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer.
It wasn’t just about saving money—though that’s part of it. LEDs also produce less heat, which meant my apartment stayed cooler in the summer, reducing my need for air conditioning.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting—and last up to 25 times longer.
I made the switch gradually, starting with the lights I use the most (kitchen, living room, bathroom). It was a one-time investment that paid off within a few months.
2. Sealed Up Drafty Windows with Weatherstripping
My apartment has large windows—great for natural light, not so great for heat retention. I noticed cold air coming through the window frames during the winter months, especially at night.
I used adhesive foam weatherstripping and a few draft stoppers to close up gaps. No tools needed, and it was done in under an hour. The change was immediately noticeable. My space felt warmer and stayed that way longer.
This one small change reduced how often my space heater kicked in during colder evenings. It’s one of those fixes that you feel more than see.
3. Installed Thermal Curtains
Thermal or blackout curtains are an underused energy saver. I bought mine for under $40 per set and hung them in the bedroom and living room.
During the winter, they keep warm air from escaping. In the summer, they block heat from the sun. It's a win-win. I also appreciated the added privacy and the darker mornings (I sleep better in a cooler, darker space).
You don’t need a decorator’s budget to find decent ones, either. Big-box retailers and online shops often have affordable options in neutral tones that go with almost any aesthetic.
4. Used Smart Power Strips to Cut Phantom Energy
I’d heard about “phantom” or “vampire” energy before—you know, the energy your devices consume even when they’re turned off or on standby. But I didn't realize how much it could add up. U.S Department of Energy reports estimates that standby power use can account for 5–10% of a household’s energy bill. That’s not small change.
I picked up two smart power strips. One went behind the TV and entertainment center (streaming devices, sound bar, PlayStation); the other in the home office. These strips automatically cut power to devices that aren’t actively in use. It’s not dramatic—but it’s consistent, and over time, that counts.
5. Replaced Showerhead with a Low-Flow Model
Water bills were creeping up, and since I can’t install a new water heater or adjust plumbing, I looked at what I could control. Swapping out the showerhead made sense. I got a WaterSense-labeled low-flow showerhead that reduces water use without sacrificing pressure. Installation took five minutes, no plumber needed. It cut both my water usage and the amount of hot water needed—two wins in one.
And honestly, the pressure feels just as good. I’d argue it’s even better because I know I’m not wasting gallons.
6. Unplugged Devices When Not in Use
Not the most high-tech fix, but surprisingly effective. Once I started paying attention, I realized how many things I kept plugged in 24/7—coffee maker, toaster, speakers, phone chargers.
Now, I unplug what I can when I’m not using it. Over time, it adds up. And it’s also made me more intentional about how I use energy overall. It's one of those small behavior changes that doesn't cost anything, just a little awareness.
7. Used a Smart Plug for Space Heaters
I live in a part of the country where winters get cold, but not freezing. I don’t always want to heat the whole apartment—just the room I’m in. Enter the space heater.
To avoid overuse, I paired my space heater with a smart plug that lets me schedule times and set usage limits via app. That way, I never forget to turn it off, and I can run it for just 20–30 minutes before bed or in the early morning.
This also gave me more control without needing to rely on the building’s sometimes-inconsistent central heating.
8. Insulated Outlets and Switch Plates on Exterior Walls
This was a new one for me. I learned that outlets and light switches—especially those on exterior walls—can let in cold air through tiny gaps. I bought a pack of foam outlet and switch gaskets (under $10 total) and installed them behind the cover plates. No fancy tools needed, just a screwdriver. It took maybe 30 minutes to do the entire apartment.
It didn’t make a dramatic temperature change, but combined with the weatherstripping and curtains, it definitely contributed to an overall cozier feel—and reduced drafts.
9. Set My Thermostat Intentionally (And Wore a Sweater)
This one might sound a little too basic, but hear me out. Once I started tracking my energy use and costs, I realized how much every degree on the thermostat mattered.
So I experimented: lowering the temperature by 2–3 degrees in winter, raising it by the same amount in summer. I also started dressing for the season inside—layering up in winter, using ceiling fans and cold drinks in summer.
It’s not about being uncomfortable. It’s about being mindful. Making these small, thoughtful adjustments helped reduce my energy bills without making my apartment feel less like home.
The Power of Small, Consistent Changes
What surprised me most through this process wasn’t how much money I saved (though that was definitely a bonus). It was how empowered I felt.
Energy efficiency isn’t just about being frugal or eco-conscious—it’s about taking ownership of your space and your spending. Even as a renter, there’s a lot you can do. It’s easy to assume that because you don’t own the place, you can’t make meaningful changes. But as I learned firsthand, small, affordable upgrades—when added together—create noticeable results.
They make your apartment more comfortable. They lower your bills. They help the environment. And they give you a sense of agency, which is something every renter deserves.
If you’re starting out, don’t stress about doing everything at once. Pick one or two changes that feel doable this month. Then build from there. Energy efficiency isn’t a finish line—it’s an evolving habit, and every step forward counts.
