Energy Efficiency While Renting

Compact Florescent Lighting (CFL) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs may cost extra, however they use less than a quarter of the energy of standard light bulbs and last 10 to 25 times longer

As renters it can be difficult to know what to do when it comes to energy saving. Making permanent alterations to a rental property may be out of the question, however there are still lots of steps individuals can take in order to make their rental home more energy efficient. Read on to find out more, including information on where to seek further advice, how to do an audit of your own home, and other tools and assessments that are available through ACTSmart.

Where to seek advice

If you're not sure where to start with reducing your energy use, the Actsmart Sustainable Home Advice line provides general information on how to reduce the cost of electricity bills. Energy experts can also help compare the running costs of domestic appliances, and provide simple tips to save energy.

All you have to do is call 1300 141 777 to speak with an experienced energy expert on how you can take steps to reduce your energy use. You can also email ActsmartAdvice@act.gov.au.

DIY energy audit

The ACTSmart Home Energy Action Kit includes the equipment, instruction guide and workbook you need to conduct an audit of your home. From there, you can develop a Home Energy Action Plan suited to your specific circumstances.

The Actsmart Home Energy Action Kit is available at your nearest branch of the ACT Public Library, or you can request a kit through the library catalogue.

Online energy efficiency tool

The ACTSmart website has an online tool you can use to assess your home’s energy efficiency by choosing answers to questions (it’s like an easy quiz). Then you can instantly download a tailored report, based on your answers, that list the best actions you can take to reduce your energy use and costs.

Free energy assessments

Actsmart also offers rental households in the ACT a free 60-minute home energy assessment. An independent, expert energy assessor can provide your assessment via phone call or in your home.
 

Energy saving tips for renters

5 steps to energy efficient cooling

1. Use fans and evaporative coolers as they use less energy than air conditioners
2. If you do use an air conditioner, increase the temperature from 18 to 23 degrees celsius
3. Keep doors closed while the air conditioner is being used
4. Cool down your concrete driveway and patio in summer by shading them with pot plants and shade cloth
5. Limit the use of heat-generating appliances such as ovens, halogen lights and computers

2 ways to reduce hot water usage

(Using hot water is the second biggest source of energy coonsumption in Canberra households)

1. Spend no more than 3-5 minutes in the shower
2. Wash clothes in cold water

5 appliance and lighting tips

1. Buy energy efficient appliances
2. Don't leave appliances running when you're not using them
3. Use power saving modes on computers, smart televisions and game controls
4. Use Compact Florescent Lighting (CFL) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs. While they may cost extra, they use less than a quarter of the energy of standard light bulbs and last 10 to 25 times longer
5. Turn off the lights when you leave the room