For countless tenants, heating and cooling bills represent over half of a household’s total utility expenses. During summer, air conditioning can spike costs, pulling money from other essentials. This makes it critical to keep utilities as low as possible. As the property owner, undertaking essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and using smart approaches can optimize your air conditioning system and keep your expenses under control.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
One of the best ways to increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency is to clean it properly at least once a year. If your unit sits on the ground, clear away any leaves or debris that may have fallen on or around it. You can also clean your unit’s condenser coils and drain lines yourself or have a professional do it.
Most air conditioning units have a drain by the indoor cooling coil, which is usually located near your furnace. You can easily clear it by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain and then rinsing it with a gallon of water.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
A crucial aspect of optimizing your air conditioning system is improving airflow. First, clear items away from your indoor vents and vacuum them to help your AC system distribute cold air smoothly. Keep your interior doors open and fine-tune vents in unused rooms. Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day to lock in cool air.
Ensure good quality weather-stripping surrounds doors and windows to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside. Raising your thermostat by two or three degrees helps reduce the strain on your air conditioning unit—set it to 78 degrees at home, higher when out.
Using a fan with your air conditioning can circulate the air faster, adding a cool breeze. A ceiling fan or table fan in specific rooms can boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality and stabilize comfort.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Cooking, using the oven, or running the clothes dryer can all heat up your house. Using these appliances during the hottest parts of the day can make your air conditioning unit work even harder. Try using your appliances in the morning or at night only during the warmest months.
If you must cook, use the exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house or a fan to redirect it, avoiding a hot kitchen.
Following simple strategies and regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system and reduce utility and repair costs throughout the summer.
Diligent regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system, minimizing summer utility and repair costs. At Real Property Management Bella, we’re committed to maintaining all our rental properties, keeping air conditioning systems in peak condition. We aim to ensure providing a comfortable living experience for tenants. Need property management services in Murrieta or nearby? Contact us online or call 951-916-4329—we’re eager to assist!
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