At GHE, we understand the unique challenges property managers and owners face when it comes to improving energy efficiency across multi-family buildings. Rising utility costs, tenant comfort, and sustainability goals are all top of mind. The good news? There are more options than ever to help you save energy, reduce operating costs, and improve tenant satisfaction.
As our landscape changes and installers are searching for new measures to help claim savings, GHE has been working to aggregate new options for direct install and self install programs. Below, we’ve outlined the most effective solutions for multi-family properties.
Lighting & Controls
Lighting is one of the most impactful upgrades in multi-family properties, especially in common areas and exterior spaces that operate 24/7. Options include:
- Smart lighting and sockets for automated control.
- Smart power strips that eliminate phantom loads.
- Specialty LED lighting (candelabra, globe bulbs, etc.) to replace CFLs.
- LED nightlights and lamps for in-unit or hallway use.
- LED wallpacks and common area fixtures (tube lights, panels, and more).
- LED exit signs for safety and efficiency.
- Occupancy and vacancy sensors in laundry rooms, storage areas, and hallways.
These upgrades typically deliver immediate savings with short payback periods.
Heating, Cooling & Ventilation
Heating and cooling represent the largest energy use in most multi-family buildings. Modernizing systems can drive significant cost reductions while improving comfort:
- Smart thermostats for in-unit and central control.
- Heat pumps (ductless, window, or ducted) for efficient heating and cooling.
- Window unit A/C covers to prevent winter air leakage.
Building Envelope
Sealing the building envelope ensures that heating and cooling investments aren’t lost to drafts or leaks. Recommended measures include:
- Weatherstripping and door sweeps for tighter seals.
- Caulk and spray foam to close air gaps.
- Wall and outlet gaskets to reduce drafts.
- Pipe wrap for heat loss prevention.
- Window insulation kits for added thermal performance.
These simple measures improve both energy efficiency and tenant comfort.
Water Efficiency
Water-saving upgrades lower both water and energy bills, especially in hot water use. Options include:
- Low-flow showerheads
- Thermostatic valves (TSVs), with or without showerhead/faucet combos.
- Faucet aerators for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Toilet flappers to reduce leaks and wasted water.
- Shower timers to encourage conservation.
- Hot water temperature cards to prevent wasted energy.
- Water heater blankets to insulate hot water heater tanks.
- Smart water leak detectors for damage prevention and conservation.
- Low-flow tub diverters for bathtubs.
- Pre-rinse spray valves for shared kitchens.
Appliances & Kitchen
In-unit appliances and common area kitchens present additional opportunities for savings:
- Induction cooktops or stoves for electrification and efficiency.
- Refrigerator coil brushes to maintain efficiency.
- Educational fridge/freezer thermometers to promote proper settings.
Health, Safety & Tenant Engagement
Finally, efficiency is about more than cost savings—it’s also about creating healthier, safer, and more engaged communities:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for compliance and safety.
- Furnace filters to maintain air quality.
- Tenant energy kits (shower timers, aerators, LEDs, etc.) to encourage in-unit savings.
- Smart submeters and energy monitoring plugs to track usage.
- In-unit energy dashboards or apps to give tenants real-time feedback.
Partnering with Green Home Experts
Every property is unique. At Green Home Experts, we work with property owners and managers to design customized efficiency strategies that balance cost, savings potential, and tenant satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for quick wins like lighting and water-saving kits, or larger capital improvements like heat pumps and ventilation systems, GHE can deliver.
We pride ourselves on being a steadfast partner, even in times of uncertainty. By working together, we can help your properties become more efficient, more sustainable, and more comfortable—while keeping operating costs under control.