When summer hits, many renters notice their heating and cooling bills rising fast. That’s because air conditioning can easily make up more than half of a household’s total utility expenses—especially during the warmest months. To help keep utilities as low as possible, a few simple changes can go a long way.
As the property owner, performing essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and following a few simple strategies can help you optimize your air conditioning system and keep your expenses under control.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
Want to increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency? It all starts with keeping your system clean and properly maintained. At least once a year, check that your outdoor unit is clear—remove any leaves or debris that might be blocking airflow. Also, don’t forget to clean your unit’s condenser coils, drain lines, and filters.
Most indoor cooling systems include a coil near the furnace. You can prevent clogs by pouring one cup of bleach down the drain and then rinsing it with a gallon of water. This easy fix keeps your lines clear and protects your home from potential water damage. For best results, hire a professional if you’re unsure about any steps.
Prevent the HVAC from working harder than it should
To truly optimize your air conditioning system, it’s important to improve how air flows through your home. First, clear items away from your indoor vents, and vacuum them regularly. This helps your AC system distribute cold air efficiently.
Leave interior doors open to allow air to move freely, and block out sunlight by closing your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Sealing your home with good quality weather-stripping can also prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside.
Another tip? Raise your thermostat by just two or three degrees. Setting it around 78 degrees at home is often enough to stay comfortable. Boost efficiency even more by using a fan with your air conditioning. A ceiling fan or table fan can circulate the air faster, which lets you cool your home while using less energy. This combo can boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality without sacrificing comfort.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Appliances can make your home hotter than you think. Activities like cooking, baking, or running the clothes dryer in the afternoon can force your air conditioning unit to work much harder. Try using your appliances in the morning or at night when outdoor temps are cooler.
If you cook during the day, switch on the exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house or place a portable fan nearby. Reducing indoor heat during peak hours helps lower your A/C’s workload.
Through a combination of smart home habits and regular maintenance, it’s possible to optimize your air conditioning system and enjoy energy savings at the same time. The small changes you make today can lead to big reductions in cooling costs.
At Real Property Management Optimize, we’re committed to maintaining all our rental properties, keeping key systems—like air conditioning systems—running efficiently. Our goal is always to provide a comfortable living experience for our residents. Interested in local property management services in Greensboro? Contact us today or give us a call at 336-704-0505. We’re here to help!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
