Green Tips For Rentersapartmentblog

Going green is possible for renters just as much as it is for homeowners. While renter’s often can not make the large home improvements such as solar water heaters and new energy star appliances, there are so easy things that can be done. I have come up with a short list of things that can be done to both save money and improve indoor air quality for renters.

1. Use CFLs.

Today this seems to be the most popular tip for going green. CFLs have the benefits of reducing energy use and reduce heat generation. Bulbs come in all sizes, shapes and wattages so finding ones to fit your need is rather easy. Just make sure you dispose of them properly as they do contain trace amounts of mercury.

2.Install black out curtains.

These are useful year round because they keep cool air in during the summer and hot air trapped inside during winter months. With potential to save as much as 25% on your energy bill, black out curtains could be a great investment.

3. Keep house plants.

If you find yourself running noisy, energy hogging air purifiers, you may consider adding some house plants around the apartment. Plants also clean the air of Carbon Monoxide, Formaldehyde, and Volatile Organic Gases (VOCs) that most air filters do not absorb. Plants can clean about 10 square yards per plant. A list of the top 10 best air cleaning plants is at Care2.

4. Maximize heating and cooling flow.

Make sure all air registers are clear of furniture so that air can circulate freely. If your apartment has radiators place heat-resistant reflectors between radiators and walls. In the winter, this will help heat the room instead of the wall.

5.Get a Green Shower Curtain.

Go natural with a hemp or organic cotton shower curtain paired with a nylon liner. It’s healthier than a PVC-coated curtain (PVC offgases potential hormone disruptors) and can be tossed in the washing machine for easy mold-preventing cleanup.

6. Use Soy Candles.

Soy candles do not contain petroleum unlike normal wax candles, and produce almost no soot. If indoor air quality is a concern make the switch to the much cleaning burning soy candle. They also burn about 50% longer than conventional candles saving you money as while providing cleaner air. The cost for soy candles is also getting close to the same as conventional candles so you don’t have to pay much more to get the benefits. More soy candle information.

7. If possible, install a programmable thermostat.

When used properly, a programmable thermostat with its four temperature settings can save up to $150 a year in energy costs. Proper use means setting the thermostat at energy-saving temperatures without overriding that setting. You should also set the “hold” button at a constant energy-saving temperature when you’re away or on vacation.