I’d like to live somewhere that is greener and more energy efficient, but I rent. What should I look for?
Unless the rental was built recently, chances are it will not be as energy efficient or green as you’d like. However, some property owners are upgrading properties to make them more attractive for tenants.
“We frequently hear from renters who are unhappy with wasting energy and the costly bills that come with that,” said DuWayne Dunham, a Clark Public Utilities energy counselor. “Many are willing to move to find something more efficient.”
The Cove at Fishers Landing started going green about two years ago, when property owner Equity Residential of Chicago adopted GreenWorks — a program of environmental awareness — at its properties across the country.
“We use low-VOC paints, recycled carpets and pads, and install Energy Star appliances,” said Ryan Wilson, property manager. “Our common area lighting is being switched to compact fluorescents, and since we’re next to a transit station, we promote public transportation.”
Wilson said the complex is installing low-flow shower heads, faucets and toilets as plumbing fixtures need to be replaced. The company even encourages tenants to pay their rent and request services electronically to reduce paper use.
“People are looking for green places to live. When given the option, they’ll choose green over not,” Wilson said.
When looking for your next apartment, house or condominium, ask the property manager how much the monthly utility bills are and how well insulated the unit is. Find out if it has single-pane or double-paned windows, the age of appliances, check whether the faucets are in good shape and ask when the thermostat was last checked?
How to cut energy use in a rental
• Heating: If the home has zonal electric heat, have the thermostat checked for accuracy. We’ve found older ones can be off by 5 to 10 degrees. Turn down the thermostat. Close off rooms and turn heat to low in rooms you are not using. Sealing air leaks will eliminate cold drafts and is an inexpensive way to reduce heating costs.
• Windows: Install inexpensive window insulation kits found at hardware stores on single-pane windows. Or use drapes to block drafty windows.
• Doors: Install weather-stripping around exterior doors. Or place a rolled up rug across the base of the door to block drafts.
• Lighting: Replace all incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, which will use up to 75 percent less electricity. Turn off lights in empty rooms and shut down electronics when not in use. And you can recycle used CFLs at any Clark Public Utilities’ office.
Clark Public Utilities works with Clark County to provide free insulation and weatherization services to families with limited incomes living in rental houses and mobile homes.
The Energy Adviser is written by members of the energy counselor team of Clark Public Utilities, who provide conservation and energy use information to utility customers. Send questions to energyadviser@clarkpud.com or to Energy Adviser, c/o Clark Public Utilities, P.O. Box 8900, Vancouver, WA. 98668. A panel of local energy efficiency and energy product specialists will review your questions. Previous topics are available at http://www.clarkpublicutilities.com.
