In numerous rental homes, heating and cooling bills frequently account for over half of a household’s total utility expenses, creating a financial burden for tenants balancing their monthly expenditures carefully. Particularly in summer, air conditioning can dramatically inflate these figures, siphoning money away from other essential household needs over time. For a property owner, it’s imperative to keep utilities as low as possible to safeguard your investment’s profitability while keeping renters happy. Through diligent essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and smart operational tactics, you can optimize your air conditioning system, keeping expenses under control stable and fostering a cozy atmosphere for everyone residing in your properties.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
To increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency, dedicate time each year to cleaning your air conditioning unit thoroughly, ensuring it operates at its best without undue strain accumulating. If it’s placed outside on the ground, always clear away any leaves or debris that could have gathered around it, as such buildup restricts airflow considerably over months. Be sure to clean your unit’s condenser coils, scrubbing off dirt that hampers heat release and reduces system effectiveness gradually.
Check the drain lines for blockages too; if they’re obstructed, either have a professional handle it or tackle it yourself depending on your comfort level. Most air conditioning units include a drain near the indoor cooling coil, often positioned adjacent to the furnace within the home. To maintain it, clear it by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain, then rinsing it with a gallon of water to wash away any lingering gunk and prevent clogs down the line.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
Proper air movement is essential for optimizing your air conditioning system to cool every corner of your rental property consistently and efficiently over time. Start by clearing items away from your indoor vents, then use a vacuum to remove dust buildup that could impede airflow significantly. This step will help your AC system distribute cold air smoothly throughout all living areas without interruption. Also, strive to keep your interior doors open, allowing air to flow freely across rooms without obstruction.
During the hottest parts of the day, close your blinds or curtains to block sunlight that would otherwise warm interiors excessively. Verify that windows and doors have good quality weather-stripping to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside reliably throughout the day. Try raising your thermostat by two or three degrees, targeting 78 degrees at home, to reduce the strain on your air conditioning unit while preserving a livable temperature for tenants.
Using a fan with your air conditioning, such as a ceiling fan or table fan, can circulate the air faster and boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality, amplifying the cooling effect noticeably.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Certain routines can inadvertently elevate indoor heat levels, compelling your air conditioning unit to work harder than necessary to keep the property cool and comfortable consistently. Activities like cooking with the oven or running the clothes dryer—appliances that all heat up your house—are best avoided during the hottest parts of the day to limit extra warmth creeping into living spaces.
Opt for using your appliances in the morning or at night, when cooler outdoor conditions prevail naturally. In the warmest months, if cooking can’t wait, employ an exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house, reducing the strain on your cooling setup considerably over time.
Pairing regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system with these strategic habits cuts utility bills, reduces repair frequency, and keeps tenants satisfied all summer long without fail. At Real Property Management Hometown, we’re experts in maintaining all our rental properties, ensuring air conditioning systems run smoothly for providing a comfortable living experience. Need property management services in Hot Springs? Contact us online or call 501-701-4702 or 501-303-6870 for assistance anytime!
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