renters. |
: hey renters - we haven't forgotten about you. It is more difficult for you to go electric, we get that.
Here's a relatively low-barrier place to start:
Here's a relatively low-barrier place to start:
Here are things renters can do today or down the road. And the Inflation Reduction Act didn't entirely forget you, so support is coming.
Check out: Don't own a home? There are still big incentives for you in the Inflation Reduction Act. We'll keep you posted as options develop!
One of the best ways you can save (money, the planet) is to simply use less energy, regardless of what type. Many tips are on Climate Smart's website here. And MSU has basic info for renters here.
As a renter, here are some things you can do:
Check out: Don't own a home? There are still big incentives for you in the Inflation Reduction Act. We'll keep you posted as options develop!
One of the best ways you can save (money, the planet) is to simply use less energy, regardless of what type. Many tips are on Climate Smart's website here. And MSU has basic info for renters here.
As a renter, here are some things you can do:
1. Start with Cooking!
|
A relatively low-barrier place to make an immediate impact is in your kitchen! If you're cooking on a methane gas stove, consider purchasing your own Induction Hotplate or "Hob". They typically cost $50 - $100 and are easy to use.
So much of our cooking is done one burner at a time and these single (or double!) burners are awesome. They can be purchased online or locally at home improvement stores. Our home page has excellent links about why induction is healthier and better all around! Clean indoor air matters to your health.... |
A $70 induction hot plate - works awesome!
|
2. Consider Laundry
|
Some rentals do not come with washers and dryers, and If you need to buy one, consider a super efficient washer and electric dryer or combo unit, which will be eligible for rebates in late 2023 or 2024. Stay tuned!
And many Missoulians skip the dryer all together and simply hang there clothes! (One of Climate Smart staff haven't had a dryer for over 3 decades! |
|
3. Cool new portable cooling - with heating!
|
Many renters have or purchase window A/C units for our hot summers. These are actual simple heat pumps. The new versions actually heat too! So you can keep it year round and run a very efficient portable heater that may allow you to use your furnace, boiler or radiant heat a lot less -- a particularly nifty idea in small apartments or homes.
And these are improving rapidly. The photo right is a "Gradient" portable A/C + heat pump heater that slides in your window without blocking it. (Looks cool though we haven't field tested - this is not a brand endorsement!) Stay tuned because these should be eligible for the direct pay rebates that are coming by the end of 2023 or 2024. If you buy one now, save your receipts in case you qualify! |
A Gradient window unit
|
3. Basic Weatherization - DIY or with Assistance
|
It may not be "electric", but simple measures like adding window film, caulking leaks, and using LED lights and window shades can help save energy and improve comfort.
Formal weatherization programs help eligible renters improve their home energy use and create a more comfortable home. A certified Energy Auditor visits the home and develops a plan that addresses the home's energy efficiency, identifies energy-related health and safety issues that may exist, and calls for cost effective heat-loss-prevention measures to be installed. Weatherization Resources & Assistance: |
Adding plastic shrink wrap to interior single-pane windows keeps the cold out. We do this yearly at the Climate Smart office!
|
4. Talk to Your Landlord
Maybe they would be willing to bring in efficient Electric HVAC systems or heat pump water heaters!
Be an advocate for yourself. Talk to your landlord about switching to a more efficient electric heating/cooling system our water heater before they need replacement. That way they aren't scrambling when an appliance fails. There's time to get them comfortable with the options and educated about any tax credits and rebates. This is super important and effective for those landlords that are paying the utilities as part of the rent.
There are a variety of incentives and funding options to help offset the initial cost on both fronts. The Inflation Reduction Act will help landlords make electrifying decisions.
Do IRA tax incentives and rebates do apply to rental properties? Here's some handy guidance offered to folks in Massachusetts: The law’s tax incentives and rebates for energy efficiency upgrades apply to rental properties. This means that landlords can benefit alongside principal residences and single-family homeowners. This is detailed in several sections of the law. In a nutshell, your renters must be in certain income brackets, or your project must achieve certain energy savings, or both.... More HERE!
Be an advocate for yourself. Talk to your landlord about switching to a more efficient electric heating/cooling system our water heater before they need replacement. That way they aren't scrambling when an appliance fails. There's time to get them comfortable with the options and educated about any tax credits and rebates. This is super important and effective for those landlords that are paying the utilities as part of the rent.
There are a variety of incentives and funding options to help offset the initial cost on both fronts. The Inflation Reduction Act will help landlords make electrifying decisions.
Do IRA tax incentives and rebates do apply to rental properties? Here's some handy guidance offered to folks in Massachusetts: The law’s tax incentives and rebates for energy efficiency upgrades apply to rental properties. This means that landlords can benefit alongside principal residences and single-family homeowners. This is detailed in several sections of the law. In a nutshell, your renters must be in certain income brackets, or your project must achieve certain energy savings, or both.... More HERE!
