Summer Heat: Getting the Most out of Your Rental Property AC System

North Carolina summers are infamous for being intensely warm and extremely humid. During the dog days of summer, it’s imperative that your tenants have a working HVAC system to keep their space cool. But for some landlords, it’s not enough that the air conditioning is working. Many property investors want to know how they can push the limits of their AC to save money and maximize efficiency. After all, a penny saved is a penny earned. Read on for some friendly advice on how to get the most out of your AC system during the warmer months of the year.

• Get Serviced. Find a local HVAC company that would be willing to take a look at your unit. System maintenance and repair are a regular part of keeping your rental space cool. In case of any unforeseen issues, be sure to schedule your checkup well in advance of the warm season.
• Plan Ahead. Give your AC a chance to warm up before the hottest days are upon you. This will ensure that it doesn’t have to work so hard to keep the space cool.
• Keep the Unit Clean. Keeping the condenser clean is a big part of the maintenance process. Because it sits outdoors, it may acquire a buildup of leaves, twigs, grass, and other organic materials. Clear it every so often to maximize unit efficiency.
• Replace the Filter. An air filter traps dirt, dust, and allergens in the air. When the filter is left unchecked, the air conditioning unit has to work harder to pump air past the buildup and throughout the space. Check it every month or so to see if it needs to be replaced.
• Close Off Spaces. Close the doors to closets, bathrooms, and any other rooms that don’t need constant air conditioning. By artificially creating a smaller space, the AC can work more quickly and more efficiently.
• Draw the Blinds. Block sunlight from entering the windows and counteractively heating the space. This is especially important in the morning and late afternoon, when the sun’s rays fall at an angle.
• Use a Fan. A fan, used in tandem with air conditioning, can actually be quite effective at cooling a space. The constant moving air means that you can keep your thermostat set a bit higher without any noticeable increase in temperature.

Here at Talley Properties, we pride ourselves on helping clients get the most from their investment. Rental properties can be quite a handful, and we’re here to help you get the upper hand as a landlord. For more tips and tricks, follow the Talley Properties blog. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services!