Last Updated: November 4, 2025
Oh yeah, Summer! Sun-drenched days filled with pool time, barbecues and outdoor adventures are just around the corner. But as the temps heat up, you don’t want your apartment utility bill to do the same.
Check out these eight tips on how to lower your energy usage and costs this summer.
How to Reduce Energy Usage in Your Apartment
1. Keep shades and drapes closed
Closing your shades and drapes, especially on the sunny sides of your apartment, helps block out direct sunlight that can quickly raise indoor temperatures. This simple step reduces the need for air conditioning and helps lower your overall energy usage, making it one of the easiest ways to reduce energy consumption at home.
2. Use your ceiling fan alongside your AC
Running a ceiling fan in addition to your air conditioner helps circulate cool air more efficiently. You can raise your thermostat by about four degrees without sacrificing comfort, which directly helps reduce energy usage and cooling costs. Just remember to turn the fan off when you leave the room, since fans cool people—not spaces—by creating a wind-chill effect.
3. Keep air registers clear and clean
Blocked air vents make your cooling system work harder, using more energy than necessary. Make sure furniture, rugs, or décor aren’t covering your air registers, and vacuum them regularly to remove dust buildup. This small maintenance habit improves airflow, efficiency, and can help reduce your apartment’s overall energy consumption.
4. Cook smart on hot days
Using your oven during the hottest parts of the day can quickly heat up your apartment, forcing your AC to work overtime. Instead, cook in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, or opt for stovetop, microwave, or outdoor grilling. This not only helps lower energy usage but also keeps your living space more comfortable.
5. Adjust your thermostat wisely
When you’re home, set your thermostat to around 78 degrees or warmer for the best balance between comfort and efficiency. When you’re away, keep it even warmer to avoid unnecessary cooling. Every degree higher can reduce your cooling costs by up to 3–5 percent—a simple way to lower energy usage without noticing much difference in comfort.
6. Set a higher temperature while on vacation
If you’re heading out of town, set your thermostat to 85 degrees or turn it off completely to avoid wasting energy on cooling an empty apartment. This small adjustment can significantly reduce energy consumption while you’re away and keep your utility bills lower.
7. Keep lamps away from the thermostat
Placing lamps or other heat-producing items near your thermostat can trick it into thinking your home is warmer than it really is. This causes your air conditioner to run longer than needed, increasing energy consumption. Keep the area around your thermostat clear to ensure accurate temperature readings and more efficient cooling.
8. Use your bathroom fan to remove humidity
Running the bathroom fan during and after a shower helps remove excess heat and humidity, reducing the strain on your air conditioning system. This helps maintain a cooler, drier environment and contributes to lowering overall energy usage in your apartment.
Sources: U.S. Department of Energy and Lincoln Electric System (LES)