Living in an apartment comes with plenty of perks like community amenities, easy maintenance, and often a more affordable rent compared to a house. But one thing you might not expect is skyrocketing electric bills. If you're living in apartments in Wilmington, NC, and want to save some cash while being more energy-efficient, this guide is for you. Below, we've compiled 12 practical tips to help lower your electric bill without compromising on comfort or convenience.
Your electric bill isn’t just an unavoidable monthly expense. It’s also something you have more control over than you realize. Lowering electricity usage not only saves you money but also reduces your environmental footprint. Whether you're new to Wilmington, NC apartments or have been living here for years, small changes in your daily habits and setup can yield big savings.
Even when turned off, appliances like TVs, gaming consoles, and microwave ovens draw "phantom power" if still plugged in. This stealthy energy consumption can add up over time. To save money, unplug devices when they’re not in use, or invest in a smart power strip that automatically cuts off power to idle devices.
Swap out your old incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. Not only do they use up to 75% less energy, but they also last significantly longer. If your Wilmington apartment allows it, consider replacing the bulbs in high-use areas like the kitchen and living room first.
Heating and cooling tend to be the biggest contributors to electric bills. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher in summer or lower in winter when you're not at home. For added flexibility and even more savings, install a programmable thermostat if your lease permits, or use fans to circulate air and reduce reliance on your HVAC system.
If your Wilmington apartment doesn’t already come outfitted with energy-efficient appliances, talk to your property manager about upgrading to Energy-Star rated options. These appliances, such as refrigerators and washers, are designed to consume less power while maintaining optimal performance.
Laundry can be a hidden energy drain. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible and dry them on a drying rack instead of a machine. If you must use the dryer, make sure to clean the lint filter after each use to keep it running efficiently.
Wilmington, NC, gets its fair share of hot summer days and chilly winter nights. Check your apartment windows for drafts and seal them with weatherstripping or window insulation film. These quick fixes can help stabilize indoor temperatures, reducing the strain on your HVAC system and lowering your bill.
Blackout curtains or heavy blinds are excellent for blocking out the sun during peak daytime hours. This simple change can help keep your apartment cooler during Wilmington’s hot summers, making your air conditioning work less.
It might sound straightforward, but turning off lights when you leave a room is a habit worth developing. Consider adding motion sensors or timers to lights in areas like hallways or closets for an even more hands-free approach to saving energy.
Your kitchen is another area where you can make energy-efficient improvements:
Set your refrigerator between 35-38°F and your freezer at 0°F for optimal performance. Avoid overpacking your fridge, as airflow is necessary to keep items cold without overworking the appliance. Regularly defrost your freezer if it has a manual setting.
Water heaters can significantly impact electric bills. Shortening your showers by even two minutes can save gallons of hot water and lower your energy use. You can also consider installing a low-flow showerhead for even more savings.
If your Wilmington, NC apartment community offers amenities like a fitness center, lounge, or coffee shop-style workspace, make full use of them. Spending time in these shared spaces means less energy usage in your apartment. You’ll benefit not only from saving electricity but also by enjoying some communal perks.
Lowering your electric bill in your apartment doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By adopting just a few of these energy-saving habits, you can see noticeable results on your next bill. Even small changes, like switching lightbulbs or unplugging devices, have an incremental impact over time.
If you’re searching for a community-focused apartment that’s mindful of comfort and energy efficiency, look no further. Oasis at Riverlights in Wilmington, NC, offers modern amenities, energy-efficient appliances, and plenty of shared spaces to help you save on utility bills.