Top Tips to Stay Cool and Keep Utility Costs Down Over Summer

Summer is great! Blue skies, days on the water, and time with our loved ones. For most of us across the country, Summer also packs a punch in the form of heat and humidity. As we take refuge in our cool air-conditioned interiors, we also brace ourselves for the surge in utility bills that accompany the summer months. However, there are some effective strategies you can implement to keep those costs under control. In this post, we’ll cover the top tips for saving on your rental properties' utility costs this summer. The best part? These tips will not only reduce your expenditures but also keep tenets cool and collected. So let's dive right in. Top Tips for Keeping Utility Costs Down Over Summer Regular HVAC Maintenance: Summer is when your HVAC system works overtime. To ensure it operates efficiently and keeps energy costs low, regular maintenance is essential. This includes cleaning and replacing filters, inspecting for leaks and scheduling a professional tune-up at least once a year. Smart Thermostats: Encourage tenants to use smart thermostats and consider installing one if you haven’t already. They learn the behavior patterns of residents and adjust the temperature automatically to optimize energy usage. Plus, they allow remote access – handy for adjusting settings if the property is ever vacant. Window Treatments: Believe it or not, simple window treatments can make a significant difference in cooling costs. Encourage tenants to close blinds or curtains during the day to block out the sun and open them at night when it's cooler. You might also consider investing in energy-efficient window treatments like solar screens or window films for longer-term savings. Sealing Cracks and Gaps: Any small cracks or gaps in doors and windows can let cool air escape and hot air enter, leading to increased AC use. Performing a simple check and sealing any leaks can make a big difference to your utility bills. Energy-Efficient Appliances: When it's time to replace appliances, opt for energy-efficient models. They might cost a bit more initially, but the savings they bring in terms of reduced energy consumption make them worth the investment. Ceiling Fans: A simple and cost-effective tip is to install ceiling fans. They help distribute cool air evenly throughout the rooms and allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. Landscape for Shade: If possible, consider landscaping to provide more shade to the property. Planting trees or shrubs to block the sun's rays can lower the surrounding temperature and reduce the need for air conditioning.

Summer need not spell doom for your utility bills! By implementing these tips, you can effectively manage and reduce energy consumption in your rental properties. Remember, when your tenants save on utilities, they'll have more disposable income to pay rent on time and may even stick around longer, reducing your turnover rates. It's a win-win for everyone involved! So why wait? Start implementing these energy-saving strategies today and keep the heat – and the bills – under control this summer.

Here at Nomad, we’re experts when it comes to pricing your property, finding a well-vetted tenant, and guaranteeing your rent for the duration of the lease you sign with your tenant. If you’re interested in learning more about these services and why over 6,000 owners love working with us, get started by requesting your free Guaranteed Rental Estimate!