--- title: How can my housemates and I lower our utility usage? description: In situations where your utility consumption exceeds the monthly limit specified in your lease agreement, overuse charges will be applied and split between tenants with active leases during the service cycle --- [Skip to content](https://help.alcoverooms.com/how-can-my-housemates-and-i-lower-our-utility-usage#main-content) [![logotypesvg](https://help.alcoverooms.com/hubfs/logotypesvg.svg)](https://alcoverooms.com) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Visit Alcove](https://alcoverooms.com/) [Visit Alcove](https://alcoverooms.com/) Welcome to Alcove. How can we help? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Help Center](https://help.alcoverooms.com/?hsLang=en) 2. [FAQ for Tenants](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-tenants?hsLang=en) 3. [Utilities](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-tenants?hsLang=en#utilities) # How can my housemates and I lower our utility usage? ## In situations where your utility consumption exceeds the monthly limit specified in your lease agreement, overuse charges will be applied and split between tenants with active leases during the service cycle In order to avoid paying any utility overages during the course of your lease, we have provided a few tips below conserve and lower utility usage: **ELECTRICITY and GAS:** - Unplug vampire appliances when they are not being used or use a power strip that can be turned off - Change air filters regularly - Don't leave the HVAC on with doors or windows open - Use optimal freezer and refrigerator temperatures **WATER** - Check faucets to ensure they are not leaking or dripping. If you feel that there is an active leak somewhere in your home, submit a ticket in your support portal [here](https://alcoverooms.com/renter-support) so your property manager can be notified and provide a resolution - Ensure that toilets are fully operational and aren't running after use - Only run a dishwasher when it is full-hand washing dishes uses more water than a dishwasher cycle - Don't leave the water running for extended periods of time when brushing your teeth, shaving, or showering - [FAQ for Applicants / Prospective Tenants](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-applicants-prospective-tenants?hsLang=en#main-content) - [What's Alcove?](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-applicants-prospective-tenants?hsLang=en#whats-alcove) - [Application Process](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-applicants-prospective-tenants?hsLang=en#application-process) - [Application & Platform Fees](https://help.alcoverooms.com/faq-for-applicants-prospective-tenants?hsLang=en#application-platform-fees) - 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