Click here if you’re interested in learning about East Lansing Recycling options.
You may think that your landlord is responsible for making your home energy efficient, but the truth is that you CAN affect how much you pay for utilities by paying attention to energy use. Urban Options, a non profit energy center on Grove Street, is not only a community center for people interested in environmental issues, but it also has excellent exhibits and personnel who can help you to save money on your energy bills. Urban Options is also always looking for students who are interested in becoming more involved to volunteer. Check out their website for contact info if you’re curious!
In the meantime, here are some energy efficient tips for heating and cooling that you as a TENANT can do:
HEATING:
- Clean or replace air filter on the furnace once a month.
- Make sure air vents are not blocked.
- Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors.
- Add a sweep to the bottom of doors that let cold air in.
- Set back heat to 60 degrees when you’re not home and at night.
- Ask your landlord to set the water heater temperature at 120 F. If you leave on vacation turn it down.
COOLING:
- Close windows and doors during hot days and open them at night.
- On hot days, close drapes and shades.
- On moderate days, turn off the air conditioner and open windows.
- Reduce the use of your oven and any appliances that generate heat.
- Set the air conditioner thermostat as high as possible–78 degrees is often considered an ideal indoor temperature.