Even if you’re living on a budget, keeping utility costs low in your Orlando rental doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. With just a few smart changes and good habits, tenants and property owners can lower monthly bills, even in Florida’s hot and humid climate. Here’s how to start saving energy and money today.
Use a Smart Thermostat (If Available)
A smart or programmable thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule. In Central Florida, where A/C use is almost constant, this one change can significantly reduce electric bills in your rental home.
Keep Your Home Well-Sealed
Don’t let cool air escape. Sealing gaps around doors and windows keeps your space more comfortable and your energy bills lower. Weatherstripping and caulking are simple, renter-friendly fixes that make a big difference.
Run Appliances Efficiently in Your Florida Rental
Only run full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine. Avoid peak energy times if possible. These small tweaks reduce energy consumption and help lower utility bills for Orlando renters.
Conserve Water in Your Orlando Rental Property
While it may not seem like it would make a difference, shortening your showers and turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth adds up. These water-saving habits are quick to adopt and can shave dollars off your monthly water bill.
Maximize Ceiling Fan Use in Florida’s Heat
Fun tip: keep your ceiling fan spinning counterclockwise during the summer. This creates a cooling breeze and lets you raise your thermostat a few degrees to reduce A/C use without losing comfort.
Switch to LED Lighting
LED bulbs use far less energy than traditional ones and last much longer. Just replacing a few high-use bulbs can lead to meaningful utility savings over time.
Adopt Energy-Saving Habits in Your Rental Home
Everyday actions matter. Set your thermostat a couple of degrees higher. Unplug chargers and electronics when not in use. Keep blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day. Together, these habits can make a real impact on your energy bill.
Report Maintenance Issues Promptly to Your Orlando Property Manager
If your A/C unit isn’t cooling properly or you notice a constantly running toilet, report it right away. Prompt maintenance helps avoid high utility costs and ensures your rental stays in top shape.
Make Long-Term Efficiency Upgrades (with Permission)
Property owners and long-term tenants can go a step further. Adding attic or crawl space insulation, upgrading to hurricane-rated energy-efficient windows, or replacing worn weatherstripping can all improve comfort and reduce energy use. Even better, these upgrades can boost the property’s value, too.
Find resources for renters on our YouTube playlist just for tenants. Or, if you’re already a tenant with The Realty Medics, visit the tenant portal to learn more.
