Ecology and energy saving are becoming more and more part of our daily lives. Rising cost of electricity and gas, probable supply problems, inflation, environmental issues… The current situation raises many questions and regularly calls for a change in habits. Our concierge YourHostHelper today offers you a guide, intended for tenants, to limit their ecological and energy impact while living their stay in seasonal rental as well as possible.
Energy saving: 10 good practices for a virtuous stay
1 – Turn off devices rather than use sleep mode
A large number of electrical appliances incorporate a standby mode to make their ignition faster while limiting energy consumption. Unfortunately, this standby mode is indeed energy-intensive despite the non-use of the object. Completely switching off or unplugging devices rather than using standby mode can save almost 15% on the use of these objects.
2 – Do not leave unnecessary lights on
Turning off the lights when leaving a room should be a reflex. Similarly, if a light doesn't need to be on, it's best to turn it off. It is therefore recommended to turn off the mood lights when the main lights, usually the ceiling lights, are on. Conversely, turning off the main light in favor of a less energy-intensive ambient light will allow you to save energy while enjoying a warmer atmosphere.
3 – Use the Eco program of the washing machine and dishwasher
If your seasonal rental is equipped with them, do not deprive yourself of the use of the washing machine and the dishwasher. It has also been shown that the dishwasher consumes less water than washing the dishes by hand. However, and to go further in the good deed, favor the Eco mode: in return for a longer operating time, you will allow a significantly reduced energy consumption.
– Washing dishes with the Eco program uses up to 45% less electricity than an intensive programme.
– By only using the Eco program to wash the laundry and selecting a lower temperature, you save more than 50% electricity.
4 – Do not start half-filled washing machines and dishwashers
Running a half-full washing machine or dishwasher wastes half the energy and water used by the appliance. So be sure to operate these devices only when they are filled to capacity to limit superfluous and unnecessary energy expenditure.
5 – Limit the use of the dryer
The dryer is one of these electrical appliances that is often dispensable. Prefer drying in the open air as soon as possible: this will allow you to dry your laundry without damaging the textile fibers while not using any electrical energy. Your laundry will keep looking new longer and your energy impact will be considerably reduced.
6 – Cook more economically
Many ways to save money focus on the kitchen! Covering pots and pans can reduce energy bills by 25%. Turning off the oven before the end of cooking represents a 10% saving. As for the fridge: remember to remove superfluous packaging from your products and not to pile them up to let the cold air circulate. Also, wait for your dish to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
7 – Optimal use of multimedia and the internet
Computers, tablets and television screens consume more energy in bright light. Use ambient brightness features when available on your device. Do not leave your devices on standby or on pause for a long time, unplug them systematically. Regarding the internet box, it is recommended to unplug it at night to achieve up to 25% savings.
8 – Check the temperature in the different rooms
Not all parts need to be the same temperature. It is recommended for a bedroom not to be below 16°C, for a living room or bathroom below 19°C. Aim for these daily temperatures. In addition, limit heat loss: close the shutters and draw the curtains when it is dark, close the doors of unheated or less heated rooms.
9 – Common sense rules for heating and air conditioning
When the heating or air conditioning is on, keep all windows closed. In addition, do not try to close or caulk the ventilation of the accommodation: this is essential equipment for your rental to keep a fresh and healthy air. Systematically turn off the heating and air conditioning when you leave the accommodation.
10 – Take part in sorting waste on a daily basis
Most cities now integrate the sorting of waste: household, recyclable, glass... We invite you to scrupulously respect the local sorting instructions for the good of all. Note that in France, non-compliance with waste collection rules is punishable by a fine of €35.
Of course, these 10 good practices are not binding and do not appear among the rules dictated by rental platforms. However, it is about respect for the owner who makes his accommodation available and who assumes the expenses related to electricity, gas and water consumption. With this in mind, higher charges lead to higher rental prices. Observing these 10 best practices means participating, as a community, in keeping seasonal rentals at attractive rates. It is also a way of acting individually and on a daily basis so that in the end uses evolve for the better and not for the worse.
Want to keep these tips on your computer? YourHostHelper has edited a pdf version of this article for you!
