UK Home Energy Saving Tips for Renters in 2025

1. Understand your current energy use

Before changing anything, get clear on how and where you use energy at home.

Check your tariff and bills

• Look at your latest gas and electricity bills to see your unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges.
• Note whether you’re on a fixed, variable or time-of-use tariff (for example, Economy 7 or smart time-of-use tariffs).
• If you rent with bills included, ask your landlord or letting agent how usage is monitored and what happens if costs rise sharply.

Use a smart meter or in-home display

If your property has a smart meter, use the in-home display to see what different appliances cost to run. If you don’t have one, you can usually request a free smart meter from your supplier — even as a renter — provided your landlord hasn’t explicitly said no in your contract.

• Track your daily spend so you can spot patterns.
• Switch devices on and off to see which cause spikes in usage.
• Take regular meter readings if you’re still on a traditional meter to avoid estimated bills.

2. Heating hacks for renters (without touching the boiler)

Heating is usually the biggest part of a UK home energy bill. Even if you can’t change the boiler, you can manage how you use the heat you’re paying for.

Use your thermostat and TRVs smartly

• Set your main thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature (typically 18–21°C). Every degree lower can reduce heating bills.
• If you have thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), turn them down in rooms you don’t use often — but don’t switch radiators off completely in winter to avoid damp and mould.
• Use timer programmes so heating only runs when you need it. There’s rarely a need to heat an empty home all day.

Rent-friendly draught proofing

You don’t need to drill or permanently alter the property to block cold draughts.

• Use self-adhesive draught strips around doors and windows — these are removable and inexpensive.
• Add draught excluders along the bottom of doors, especially the front door and doors to unheated halls.
• Close internal doors to keep heat where you need it most.
• Use heavy curtains or thermal liners on windows and close them as soon as it gets dark to keep heat in.

Make the most of your radiators

• Keep radiators clear of furniture and long curtains so warm air can circulate.
• Use magnetic radiator reflectors behind radiators on external walls. They reflect heat back into the room and can be removed easily when you move out.
• Bleed radiators (if allowed in your tenancy) if you notice cold spots at the top — this helps the system run more efficiently.

3. Cut hot water waste without touching the tank

Hot water is another big energy cost, especially in electric-heated homes.

• Install a water-saving shower head. Most are easy to fit and remove, and can cut water and heating use.
• Keep showers to around 4–7 minutes. A shower timer or even a favourite song playlist can help.
• Use the eco settings on your washing machine and dishwasher.
• Wash clothes at 30°C where possible — modern detergents work well at lower temperatures.
• If you have an immersion heater, use its timer to heat water only when needed rather than 24/7.

4. Lighting and appliance tips that add up

Lighting and everyday appliances might seem small, but they run for many hours and can quickly increase your bill.

Switch to LEDs (and take them with you)

• Replace old halogen or incandescent bulbs with LEDs. They use up to 80% less electricity.
• LEDs last years, and you can take them with you when you move, making them a smart renter investment.
• Prioritise the lights used most — kitchen, living room and hallway.

Be smart with everyday appliances

• Use power strips so you can easily switch off several devices at once and avoid standby usage.
• Turn off TVs, consoles, computers and chargers at the socket when not in use.
• Only boil the water you need in the kettle.
• Fill the washing machine and dishwasher before running — half loads cost nearly as much as full loads.
• If you have a tumble dryer, use it sparingly. Air-dry clothes where safe to do so, using heated airers rather than dryers if you need extra help in winter.

5. Smart meters, apps and controls for tenants

Technology can help you stay on top of home energy, even if you’re renting.

• Smart meters show exactly what you’re using and can unlock time-of-use tariffs. As a tenant, you can normally request one from your supplier.
• Many suppliers offer free energy apps that show daily or half-hourly usage so you can test the impact of changes.
• If your heating system is compatible, simple smart thermostats and wifi-enabled TRVs can often be installed without major disruption. Check with your landlord first.

6. Work with your landlord, not against them

Some improvements require your landlord’s agreement, but many landlords welcome suggestions that make their property more efficient.

Check the property’s EPC rating

• Ask for your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or search for it online using the government EPC register.
• Look at the recommended improvements. Some are cheap and can quickly improve comfort and running costs.

How to approach your landlord

When you contact your landlord or agent, highlight benefits such as:

• Lower running costs making the property more attractive to future tenants.
• Reduced risk of condensation, damp and mould.
• Improved EPC rating which can add value to the property.

Simple upgrades you can reasonably ask about include:

• Draft-proofing doors and windows.
• Loft insulation or top-up insulation.
• Upgrading very old, inefficient appliances when they need replacing.

7. Stay comfortable and avoid damp

Energy saving isn’t just about lower bills. It’s also about staying healthy and protecting your belongings.

• Ventilate regularly by opening windows slightly, especially when cooking, showering or drying clothes indoors.
• Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens if you have them.
• Avoid pushing furniture tightly against external walls to reduce condensation build-up behind wardrobes and sofas.
• If damp or mould appears, report it promptly to your landlord or managing agent — it’s a health issue, not just an energy issue.

8. Seasonal energy-saving checklist for renters

Use this quick checklist to stay on top of home energy all year round.

Autumn & winter

• Check and upgrade draught proofing.
• Set heating schedules for weekdays and weekends.
• Move furniture away from radiators.
• Keep curtains open on sunny days and closed as soon as it gets dark.

Spring & summer

• Turn heating off when no longer needed.
• Use blinds and curtains to keep rooms cool on hot days.
• Review your tariff and consider if a different plan may suit your usage.
• Plan any small, removable upgrades (like LEDs and smart plugs) for the year ahead.

9. Low-cost upgrades you can take when you move

Invest in portable solutions that reduce your bills now and move with you later:

• LED bulbs and smart bulbs.
• Smart plugs and energy monitoring plugs.
• Draught excluders and removable draught strips.
• Thermal curtain liners.
• Shower timers and efficient shower heads.

These small items can pay for themselves quickly and carry on saving you money in your next home.

10. How EnergyPlus can help UK renters in 2025

EnergyPlus works with households across the UK to help them understand and reduce their home energy costs. While our main services often involve working with property owners, we also provide support and guidance tailored to renters.

• Help explaining your bills and tariffs.
• Guidance on smart meters and energy apps.
• Advice on talking to your landlord about efficiency improvements.
• Updates on new schemes and support available to households.

If you’d like personalised advice on your current property and circumstances, our team is here to help.