DIY Energy Efficiency for Apartment Living
On Wall Street, I built businesses by protecting margins — efficiency was profit. Apartment living works the same way: every kilowatt and gallon saved is money kept. With U.S. households spending an average of $429/month on utilities (Bankrate, 2023), DIY energy efficiency is a high-ROI play.
1. Swap to LED Bulbs
- Use 75% less energy than incandescents.
- ROI: lower bills + bulbs that last 10+ years.
2. Control the Thermostat
- Set to 68°F in winter, 78°F in summer.
- Cuts heating/cooling costs by up to 10% annually.
3. Seal Drafts with Weatherstrips
- Cheap strips or towels at doors/windows.
- ROI: $20 fix can save $200+ a year.
4. Unplug “Vampire” Electronics
- Chargers, TVs, and consoles draw power when idle.
- Savings: $100–$200/year.
5. Use Fans Before AC
- Ceiling or portable fans consume far less power.
- ROI: comfort for pennies per day.
6. Wash Smarter
- Cold-water laundry saves energy.
- Air-dry clothes to cut dryer costs.
Final Word
On Wall Street, efficiency kept firms alive in tight markets. For apartments, DIY energy hacks do the same: cut waste, save hundreds, and redirect cash to your bigger goals. Efficiency isn’t just green — it’s profitable.
