When the summer heat attacks, home energy bills can increase rapidly. Due to this, as a rental property owner or landlord, making your rental property more energy efficient is an ideal financial move. Energy-efficient upgrades increase property prices, but they also help you attract and keep quality residents.
Even a few modest steps, such as sealing off drafts or incorporating smart tech upgrades, can make a significant impact. Let’s examine a few budget-friendly ways to boost energy efficiency in your rental property and keep everyone cool this summer.
Seal in the Cool: Weatherstripping for Rentals
Are you aware that a large portion of the cool air produced by your rental’s air conditioning unit may be escaping through tiny spaces around doors and windows? Broken windows and doors are the main causes of inefficiency.
The positive side is that solving the issue is rather easy. In reality, installing or replacing weatherstripping is one of the fastest techniques to secure both comfort and savings. To determine what your property needs, walk through and check for drafts or worn-out seals.
Weatherstripping on doors and windows helps keep the hot air out and the cool air in. It’s an affordable solution that can make your rental property more comfortable.
Upgrade to Energy Efficient Windows
If you have a somewhat larger budget, consider the benefits of replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient alternatives. Old, drafty windows are one of the primary sources of homes’ waste energy in the summer months.
If your rental still has single-pane or outdated windows, it may be best to consider renovation. Buying energy-efficient windows for your rentals can not only lower cooling costs but also increase property values.
Even if a full replacement is not within your funds right now, you can still boost efficiency with thermal window film or blinds that block out the sun’s intense rays. Your residents will unquestionably appreciate the additional coziness and lower bills.
Inspect Insulation and Attic Ventilation
A well-insulated home is critical not only during the chilly winter months. It’s also imperative to keep a comfortable indoor temperature all summer. Proper insulation keeps the cool air in and the hot air out, giving you summer utility savings that you will be grateful for.
To see the insulation quality in your rental property, check the attic, walls, and crawl spaces for any unoccupied or worn spots. During your inspection, don’t disregard the attic ventilation. Appropriate attic airflow helps prevent heat buildup, keeping your air conditioning system from running inefficiently.
Smart Thermostats Make a Difference
Smart thermostats are currently ideal options for rental homes because they greatly improve energy efficiency. Smart thermostats and similar devices allow renters to set programmable heating and cooling schedules, preventing the air conditioner from blasting when nobody’s home.
Many smart thermostats include mobile apps that allow for changes while on the go. Purchasing a smart thermostat can bring about significant energy savings, while also delivering a modern amenity that renters appreciate.
Encourage Good Habits for Tenants
Lastly, renters can take a number of measures to enhance the energy efficiency of their rental home. Offer your tenants simple tips to save energy.
This could involve closing blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day, utilizing ceiling fans to circulate cool air, and changing air filters on a regular basis to keep the system working properly. Offering your residents an extensive energy-saving checklist motivates everyone to work together to keep utility costs down.
Ready for Lower Bills and Happy Tenants?
Improving the energy efficiency of your rental property does not need to be hard or expensive. With smart upgrades like weatherstripping, energy-efficient windows, and a few proactive checks, you may increase value, attract and retain quality renters, and keep current tenants pleased.
For dependable advice and efficient property management in Skokie, reach out to your local experts at Real Property Management Chicago Group right now. We’re here to help you maximize every season! Contact us online or call 312-265-0660.
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