For many tenants, heating and cooling bills account for over half of a household’s total utility expenses. In hot weather, reliance on air conditioning often increases costs, diverting funds from other priorities. This highlights the need to keep utilities as low as possible. As the property owner, conducting essential maintenance on your air conditioning unit and adopting straightforward tactics can optimize your air conditioning system and keep your expenses under control.
Perform essential HVAC maintenance regularly
To increase your air conditioning unit’s efficiency, clean it thoroughly at least annually. For outdoor units, clear away any leaves or debris that accumulate nearby. You can clean your unit’s condenser coils and drain lines yourself or have a professional handle it. Most air conditioning units feature a drain near the indoor cooling coil, typically beside the furnace. To maintain it, 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
Efficient airflow is key to optimizing your air conditioning system. Begin by ensuring you clear items away from your indoor vents and vacuum them. This will help your AC system distribute cold air effectively throughout the home.
Keep your interior doors open and tweak vents in seldom-used rooms. Close your blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day to trap cool air inside. Verify that good quality weather-stripping seals doors and windows to prevent air leaks and keep the cold air circulating inside. Raising your thermostat by two or three degrees can reduce the strain on your air conditioning unit—experts suggest 78 degrees at home, higher when away.
Pairing a fan with your air conditioning helps circulate the air faster, providing a refreshing breeze. Using a ceiling fan or table fan in select rooms can boost your air conditioning unit’s functionality and sustain comfort.
Avoid adding extra heat sources
Activities like cooking, using the oven, or running the clothes dryer can all heat up your house. Operating these appliances during the hottest parts of the day forces your air conditioning unit to overwork. Instead, try using your appliances in the morning or at night during the warmest months. When cooking is necessary, activate the exhaust fan to pull the heat out of the house or use a floor fan to dissipate it, preventing the kitchen from overheating.
Consistent regular maintenance can optimize your air conditioning system, cutting utility and repair costs all summer. At Real Property Management Midlands, we excel at maintaining all our rental properties, ensuring air conditioning systems perform at their best. Our team is dedicated to providing a comfortable living experience for tenants. Need property management services in Irmo or nearby? Contact us online or call 803-403-8838—we’re ready to help!
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