from Edward in Racine, WI :
#447
I rent and have lived in a two bedroom apartment about three years. I have electric heat and my monthly bills are really high. I question whether or not the landlord installed any insulation in the walls or whether it's obvious that I have leaking windows. What is the best way for me to determine what is causing my heating costs to be so high? None of my neighbors have the same problem.
We have some suggestions, read on!
In order to verify that insulation is present in the building, request that the maintenance staff verify via a visual inspection if at all possible. More than likely they would be able to see attic insulation through a crawl space. Signs of leaky windows include fog between the window panes and perhaps a build up of frost on the inside of the windows during cold weather.
Another suggestion is to have your electric utility verify that the meter to your apartment is functioning properly and is only servicing your address.
Here are some tips to save energy:
- Set your heat at a good daytime temperature while you are in your apartment, which is no higher than 65 degrees, be sure to turn your heat down to 62 or lower while you sleep or are away from home. For each degree you lower the thermostat you'll save 1% on your heating costs.
- Be sure to turn off all non-essential electrical items when not in use as well, or better yet unplug them! Small appliances like coffee makers continue to use electricity even when turned off.
- You can also take a look at our Winter Tips Fact Sheet to help reduce costs or visit our Web site for more information.