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Energy efficiency for renters

Save energy, shrink your bill

Whether you rent a house or an apartment, there are a variety of no- or low-cost actions you can take to reduce the energy consumption in your home. From heating and cooling, to lights and appliances, to plumbing and water heating, PSE offers a variety of tips and rebates to help you save energy and money. Always obtain permission from your landlord before making any changes to your home.

PSE offers special incentives on energy-efficient in-unit and common area equipment for multifamily properties with five or more attached units. Landlord participation is required. Please share our multifamily retrofit page with your property manager or download our multifamily retrofit brochure.

Tips and rebates for renters:


HVAC
Heating and cooling
  • Create a "warm room." When possible, only heat the room(s) you spend the most time in.
  • Talk to your landlord about having your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it’s operating efficiently and safely.
  • Turn the heat down or off while you’re asleep or away from the home. Talk to your landlord about installing a programmable thermostat or a new smart thermostat (PSE offers a $75 rebate on qualified models!).
  • Pay attention to moisture levels. Some homes and apartments have high indoor humidity levels due to poor ventilation or other factors. On dry, sunny days, turn off the heat and open the windows to dry problem areas.
lighting
Lights and appliances
  • Replace incandescent lighting with light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs and fixtures, particularly in areas you use most. LED bulbs use at least 80 percent less energy while lasting 13-25 years longer than incandescent bulbs. Save instantly with PSE discounts on select fixtures at participating retailers or the PSE Online Marketplace.
  • Choose the right bulb for each room. LED bulbs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit nearly every household fixture. If you have dimmable fixtures, be sure the LED bulb is compatible and has dimming capabilities.
  • Avoid over-drying laundry. If your dryer has a moisture sensor or auto shut-off feature, use it.
  • Clean the lint filter in your dryer every time you use it. A clogged filter increases drying time.
  • If you have an older refrigerator or freezer, listen to see if the motor/compressor runs constantly. If so, you may need repair service to check for low refrigerant. Another cause may be a leaky door gasket.
  • When cooking, match pots and pans to the right sized burner. Use a microwave or toaster oven, rather than your stove, to heat food whenever possible.
  • Check out PSE’s appliance rebates for more details.
faucet
Plumbing and water heating
  • Set your water heater to 120°F or the "low" setting to save money and reduce risk of scalding.
  • If your water heater is leaking, call your landlord immediately (PSE offers rebates on energy-efficient water heating).
  • Check hot water faucets and shower valves for leaks. Replace washers or repair valves if you find leaks.
  • Install energy-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators.
Low income? PSE can help!

PSE’s weatherization assistance program provides free weatherization assistance to qualified customers to help reduce energy use and lower bills. This includes free upgrades such as installing insulation, sealing air leaks, improving lighting and replacing refrigerators. Landlord permission is required for renters. For more information, visit pse.com/liw.



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ASK AN ENERGY ADVISOR

Have questions about PSE's green options, including energy efficiency tips and rebates, contractor referrals, electric cars and renewable energy options? We're here to help.

Call us at 1-800-562-1482, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or contact us below.



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