How to find an energy-efficient rental

If you’re on the hunt for a new place to live, you’re probably checking off your usual list: price, location, layout, pet policy. But there’s one important detail that’s easy to overlook, and it can make a big difference in your comfort and monthly costs — energy efficiency.

An energy-efficient rental can help you stay warm in winter, cool in summer and avoid high energy bills — all while reducing your overall energy use. Here’s how to shop the features that matter most, what questions to ask during your search and how to set yourself up for success once you’ve moved in.

Why energy efficiency matters in a rental

Energy efficiency isn’t just something homeowners should think about. As a renter, it directly affects your quality of life and your wallet!

Less efficient rentals often rely on older heating systems, single-pane windows or outdated appliances that require more electricity to do the same job. That can mean drafty rooms, inconsistent temperatures and higher bills.

A more efficient rental is designed or updated to do more with less.

What to look for during your rental search

Energy efficiency isn’t always called out in rental listings, but you can learn a lot by asking the right questions and keeping an eye out during your tour.

Ask about:

• Heating and cooling systems

Ask what type of system the unit uses — electric heat and cooling, ductless heat pump, baseboard heating, etc. Efficient systems like heat pumps can help lower your bill and keep temperatures more consistent.

• Windows and insulation

Are the windows single- or double-pane? Can you feel any drafts? Well-insulated windows and sealed doors make a big difference in reducing heat loss in the winter and keeping things cool in the summer.

• Appliances

Ask how old the major appliances are and whether they’re ENERGY STAR certified. That includes the refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer, and even the water heater.

• Thermostat

A smart thermostat, like a Nest or ecobee, makes it easier to manage your heating and cooling efficiently and can help you save automatically when you’re not home.

• Lighting and window coverings

Are LED lightbulbs installed throughout? Do the windows have blinds or curtains? These features can help regulate temperature and reduce the need for heating or cooling.

What to notice when touring a rental

You don’t need to be an expert to spot signs of inefficiency. During your visit, be aware of:

• Drafts near windows or exterior doors

• Outdated or wall-mounted heating systems that may use more energy

• Lack of ceiling fans, which help with air circulation

• South- or west-facing windows with no shades, which can lead to overheating in summer

• Look for the ENERGY STAR logo on appliances like the refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer and dryer

If possible, ask current tenants about their average energy bills. It’s one of the best ways to get a sense of what to expect. You can also call PGE Customer Service, who can provide you with the average high and average low bill for that rental.

Talk to the property manager or landlord

A few simple questions can go a long way in understanding whether energy efficiency is top of mind for the property:

• Have any energy improvements been made recently?

• Are there plans to upgrade insulation, windows or appliances?

• Do most tenants have high electric bills, or is the building generally energy efficient?

• Are they open to small upgrades, like adding weatherstripping, replacing older lightbulbs or adding a smart thermostat?

You don’t need to push for major changes — just expressing interest can show that you’re a thoughtful renter who’s paying attention.

Energy efficiency starts with your search

Finding the right rental is about more than the floor plan or monthly rent. Taking a little extra time to ask questions about energy use — and noticing which features are already in place — can help you choose a space that’s both comfortable and cost-effective.

By knowing what to look for and what to ask, you’ll feel confident choosing a rental that’s efficient, comfortable and ready to support your lifestyle.

After move in: Set yourself up for success

Once you’ve signed your lease, you still have opportunities to save energy, even if you can’t make big changes to the property itself.

PGE’s Smart Renter guide is a great place to start. It includes simple, renter-friendly tips to help you use less energy and keep your monthly bill in check — like using cold water when doing laundry or unplugging devices when not in use.

You can also:

• Use your PGE Customer Dashboard to monitor and manage your energy use in real time.

• Sign up for Peak Time Rebates and earn rewards for shifting your use.

• Explore Time of Day pricing, which offers lower rates most hours of the day and all weekend.

• Consider enrolling in PGE's Smart Thermostat program if your rental has a smart thermostat or lets you install one.

For even more ways to save in your rental, check out our full post on Simple ways renters can lower their energy bills. You’ll find everyday actions and helpful tools to make the most of your new space.