Register for our Renter Group Coaching Session on 10/28.
As a renter, you may not have control over some aspects of your home, but there are still many actions you can take to reduce your energy usage and adopt electric solutions. Explore the resources below to learn about energy upgrades available to renters, tips for working with your landlord or property manager to implement energy upgrades, and what to look for when searching for a sustainable home rental.
If your rental home has a gas stove, you can purchase a portable induction cooktop or hot plate to use instead of your gas stove. Gas stoves release harmful pollutants into your home and are linked to higher rates of childhood asthma. Induction stoves use electricity and are fast and efficient.
Renters can buy a portable cooktop with one or several burners for less than $150 and these units can plug directly into an outlet in the kitchen. Note, induction stoves work by generating a magnetic field that goes through the pot to heat the food, so you need induction-compatible pots and pans made of aluminum, copper, cast iron or stainless steel. Many pots and pans are already induction-friendly, and you can test your pots and pans by holding a magnet to them – if the magnet sticks, they will work with an induction stove!
Learn more about portable induction cooktops for renters here.
If your home has a programmable or smart thermostat, set the thermostat to increase (during summer) or decrease (during winter) while you are away from your home. While you are home, set the thermostat to the highest (during summer) or lowest (during winter) temperature you are comfortable with. If you do not have a programmable thermostat, manually adjust the temperature before you leave home. Even just a few degrees difference can save an abundant amount of energy and money over the course of a year!
If you notice drafts or large temperature differences, especially near windows and doors, there are several simple and low-cost temporary changes you can make to improve the comfort of your home, such as through the use of:
Renters may own and control large energy-using appliances, such as window air conditioners, air purifiers, dehumidifiers, washer/dryers, microwaves, televisions, computers and more. When purchasing new appliances, look for Energy STAR® rated products, which meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. You can search for Energy STAR® products here.
If you are responsible for replacing light bulbs or if you have portable lamps, replace any old bulbs with LED lights.
You may be able to get discounts on some products, such as advanced power strips, air filters, air purifiers and dehumidifiers, through the Dominion Energy Marketplace.
Unplug small appliances and electronics when you are not using them to avoid unnecessary electricity usage.
Renters may be able to install water-efficient, low-flow showerheads and sink faucet aerators. Look for theEPA’s WaterSense label whenpurchasing water-efficient products. WaterSense labeled products meet high standards for water efficiency and performance and can help save water at home.
Consider taking public transportation, walking, biking or carpooling instead of driving alone. Explore more Transportation Resources for Arlington County.
If you do need to drive, consider replacing your gas vehicle with an electric vehicle (EV.) Arlington County has installed more than 50 charging ports for residents and visitors to use. Renters with off-street parking may be able to plug an EV charger into an existing outlet without needing a permit. If you live in a larger building, ask your landlord or property manager about installing EV chargers for residents. Learn more about Installing EV Charging and Public EV Charging.
Renters typically do not have control over the home’s largest energy users (e.g., heating, cooling and hot water systems) or energy waste (e.g., poor insulation and air sealing and inefficient appliances and lighting). Talk to your landlord about how energy upgrades can save money and improve the health and comfort of the home. It is most cost effective to make energy upgrades when energy systems and appliances need to be replaced, so you can help them identify failing equipment and advocate for an efficient, electric replacement. You can also share information on Incentives, Rebates and Financing to help reduce the cost of upgrades.
If you are seeking a rental home and want to prioritize sustainable homes, here are a few certifications and features you can look for or ask the landlord or property manager about:
Green Building certifications and recognitions, such as LEED, Energy STAR® and Green Lease Leaders
Energy Efficiency features (e.g., heat pumps for heating and cooling, rooftop solar, LED lighting, efficient appliances, high-quality insulation)
Green features (e.g., green roofs, rain gardens, composting)
Sustainable transportation features (e.g., EV chargers, bike racks, e-bike chargers, high walkability or bikeability scores)
You can also ask to see historical energy bills so you can estimate your utility costs. Additionally, you could request the landlord or property manager to make energy upgrades before you move in.
Energy Saving Tips for Renters (Virginia Energy Sense)
Renters, you can go electric, too! Here's how. (Rewiring America)