Electrification for Renters

A portable induction cooktop cuts indoor air pollution caused by natural gas ranges, and is more efficient than a glass-ceramic cooktop. They are quick to clean, don’t require installation, and start around $60. Most can be plugged into a regular outlet. You’ll need pans that are magnetic, like a cast-iron skillet. To test if your cookware will work on induction, try sticking a magnet onto the bottom. If it sticks, you’re good to go. You can also get a wok-specific portable induction cooktop.

If you haven’t already, replace all your old incandescent light bulbs with efficient LED light bulbs. New LED bulbs use 75-90% less electricity than old ones, last much longer, and cost only $2-3 each. They come in different “temperatures,” or colors, to choose from.

A heat pump works like a refrigerator in reverse, moving heat either into or out of a building depending on where it’s needed. That means it can heat your apartment when it’s cold outside and cool it in the summer.

Renter-friendly micro heat pumps are available as free-standing units and window units. They can heat and cool individual rooms, and don’t require professional installation or permission from your landlord. Make sure the one you get has real heat pump heat, not resistance heat or fan (which are less efficient and can be more expensive to operate). 

Use a clothesline or rack to let the air and sun dry your laundry.

Most Californians are on Time-of-Use (TOU) rates, which means you pay more for the electricity you use between 4pm-9pm. If possible, avoid running the dishwasher, doing the laundry, or charging your car in the evening in order to save money. 

Consider getting an electric bike for commuting or running errands around town. E-bike prices typically range from $1,000 and $6,000, and rebates may be available. Learn about different types of e-bikes and choose the perfect bike for your needs. Plus, they’re cool and a lot of fun to ride.

If you drive a lot, especially in a daily commute, your biggest dollar and carbon savings could be from an electric car. Check for available incentives. Charge at work, check to see if you have a grounded 120V wall outlet where you park, or see if your landlord will install a home charger if you pay for the electricity.

One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is switching your Ava service plan to Renewable 100. It costs about $1-$4 more per month, but is sourced from 100% renewable energy, like wind and solar. If cost is an issue, our Bright Choice service plan offers lower rates and is still more than 50% renewable—and will be 100% carbon-free by 2030. You’re still a part of the green energy transition just by being an Ava customer.

Start a conversation with your landlord about electrification, especially when you start to notice a major appliance getting older. Rewiring America has compiled some great talking points specifically for renters. You can also share our landlord resources with them.