In many rental units, heating and cooling bills often exceed half of a household’s total utility expenses, posing a major challenge for tenants juggling their finances. During summer months, air conditioning can sharply increase these costs, pulling money away from other necessities. As a property owner, it’s vital to keep utilities as low as possible to protect your investment and maintain tenant happiness. With essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and a few clever strategies, you can optimize your air conditioning system, keeping expenses under control and ensuring a cool, comfortable space for renters.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
To increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency, clean your air conditioning unit thoroughly at least once a year to keep it running smoothly. For outdoor units on the ground, clear away any leaves or debris that might block airflow and reduce performance. Don’t skip clean your unit’s condenser coils —removing dirt helps maintain proper heat release. Check the drain lines too; if clogged, you may need to have a professional step in, though many air conditioning units support DIY care. The drain is usually near the indoor cooling coil, close to the furnace. To unclog it, clear it by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain, then rinsing it with a gallon of water to flush out buildup.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
Good airflow is key to optimizing your air conditioning system and cooling your property evenly. Start by clearing items away from your indoor vents and vacuuming them to remove dust that restricts air. This will help your AC system distribute cold air effectively throughout the home. Keep your interior doors open to allow free circulation. During the hottest parts of the day, close your blinds or curtains to block heat from sunlight. Use good quality weather-stripping on windows and doors to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside. Adjust by raising your thermostat by two or three degrees to 78 degrees at home, easing the load with minimal comfort loss.
Pair a fan with your air conditioning, like a ceiling fan or table fan, to circulate the air faster and boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Everyday tasks can heat up interiors, overworking your air conditioning unit. Avoid cooking with the oven or running the clothes dryer—appliances that all heat up your house—during the hottest parts of the day. Suggest tenants use your appliances in the morning or at night instead. In the warmest months, an exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house can lighten the cooling load.
With regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system and these tips, you’ll cut costs, reduce repairs, and keep tenants cool. At Real Property Management Bay Area, we focus on maintaining all our rental properties, ensuring air conditioning systems deliver providing a comfortable living experience. Need property management services in San Jose? Contact us online or call 650-696-1800 today!
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