As a renter, there are things you can do to reduce your heating costs. Thermostat setbacks are easy and reduce heating bill totals. Turn down the heat during the heating season to save money. Turn the heat down when you're sleeping, and when you plan to be gone for up to eight hours. In the cooling season, turn the thermostat or setting on the air conditioner higher if you are going to be away for about 8 hours or more.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save about 5 percent to 15 percent per year on your heating bill by turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours each day. That’s a savings of as much as 1 percent for each degree if the setback period is eight hours long.
To further reduce heating costs, hang insulated drapes, add a second layer to existing window treatments, or add insulated linings behind the existing treatments. Windows generally have low insulation values, and some windows leak around the frame or sash. By hanging insulated window treatments, you can reduce the amount of heat transfer, which will reduce heating bill totals.
Let the sun heat a room or house for free. Open window treatments on the sunny side of the house to allow the sun to heat the home during the heating season. When the sun goes down, close the window treatments to retain the heat. It is surprising how much heat the sun can add to a home during the heating season.
In the cooling season, close window treatments, especially on the east and west sides of the home or unit.
Make sure windows and any storm windows are closed and locked to avoid air leaks. Backer rod, found at home and hardware stores, can be used in areas where there are cracks and holes around windows.
Inexpensive fixes for a home include such things as caulking and weatherstripping around doors and windows, expanding foam to seal holes and gaps around plumbing or other wall penetrations, and outlet gaskets behind the face plates of switches and outlets. These air sealing products do not cost much and can make a difference on heating and cooling.
Unplug electronics, chargers, and appliances when not in use, or use power strips to shut them completely off.
The U.S. Department of Energy has more on this topic. Energy Savers - Apartments
Here are several factsheets with energy saving ideas for renters.
Saving Energy in Apartments
Stop Window Drafts With Homemade Indoor Shutters
Insulated Window Treatments and Coverings