The multifamily sector is an undeniably tricky one when it comes to creating energy savings. Navigating customer engagement, new technology, communication with renters and decision makers can be challenging, but utility programs can help. With the right partner, realizing energy savings in tenant spaces can be easier than in seems.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that electricity use by fans and air-conditioning equipment was the single largest use of electricity within the residential sector in 2018. Replacing old air conditioners or ceiling fans with an ENERGY STAR® model will reduce energy costs and increase comfort—but be sure the new AC is sized properly for the space to maximize efficiency.
Most people know to turn off lights when exiting a room, but many leave their ceiling fan on. Why is that? People often believe that ceiling fans help with cooling a space, but the truth is that ceiling fans only serve their purpose when someone is in the room. They don’t actually lower the temperature—they simply circulate cool air across the skin, making people in the room feel more comfortable. When a ceiling fan is left running in an unoccupied room, the only thing it’s doing is adding heat from the fan motor and wasting energy.
A clean air filter will allow for better air flow through the furnace to improve heat transfer, resulting in lower energy bills. When equipment doesn’t need to work as hard to do its job, it tends to last longer while providing cleaner air to the apartment. For cleaning large particulates, inexpensive cardboard and spun fiberglass filters (MERV1-4) are available but not preferred. Higher quality filters (MERV 5-7) typically cost a bit more but they also filter air more thoroughly and may reduce chances for illness or allergies.
According to ENERGY STAR®, someone who prepares at least two meals a day for a family of four could save more than 75% in energy and water costs by running the dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes. Wasting water by rinsing dishes before putting them into the dishwasher isn’t necessary; simply scraping the plates is as efficient. But for those who can’t help themselves, using cold water instead of warm or hot is an energy-saver. These tips sound simple, but the water and energy costs associated with cycling equipment on less than full loads add up quickly while also increasing wear on the equipment because of the added cycles.
The Department of Energy recommends setting tank-based hot water-heater temperature to 120˚F, but the default setting from most manufacturers is 140˚. On the flip side, if a water heater is set too low, water may not get hot enough, or worse, pose risk of growing dangerous bacteria like Legionella. Every 10 degrees the water tank thermometer is turned down, 3-5% savings are realized.
In locations with permanently installed window or through-wall air conditioners, a flexible plastic wrap or hard cover should be installed on the interior of the air conditioner unit during the winter months. Air conditioner covers reduce cold air infiltration in the units, save on heating costs and make units more comfortable.
To learn more about how to save energy in a multifamily or residential setting, contact us today.