Summer temperatures can be scorching, which can leave your tenants with some pretty expensive utility bills if you aren’t careful. Fortunately, there are several ways to win the battle against the heat while keeping your bills and your tenants from becoming unbearably expensive.
Take the time to share these tips with your renters to help stay cool, while saving a little extra money this summer. They can turn their savings into a fun outing or adventure!
- Hang Blackout Curtains
Blocking out direct sunlight can make a significant impact in keeping the temperature down throughout the home. Windows that are exposed to the most amounts of sunlight are a great starting point to seeing the difference it can make, especially on the West side of the home where the sun will hit during the afternoon into the evening. In addition to reducing the temperature they can provide extra benefits, such as quieting noise if you’re located on a busy street or dealing with construction.
- Take Advantage of Fans
Once you have the appropriate curtains up, it becomes much easier to maintain cool temperatures indoors. Installing ceiling fans in the bedrooms or encouraging your tenants to use fans will cut down on air conditioning costs. These costs can be particularly high if you have central air conditioning.
- Compromise With Inside Temperatures
It’s easy to want to crank up the air conditioning for immediate relief of those hot temperatures. Being realistic and opting to maintain a temperature around 80 degrees Fahrenheit can provide you with the physical relief that you need, as well as financial – particularly if you combine this tactic with blackout curtains and strategically placed fans throughout the property. Upgrading to a programmable thermostat is a bonus for your renter.
- Be Mindful of Water Consumption
Summertime requires more water usage for flowers, plants, potted vegetable and fruit plants, sprinkler systems for the lawn, car washing, and even washing your pets. Pay attention to the weather systems that often bring rain and storms throughout the summer months. If rain is in the forecast, skip watering your lawn and plants on those days. In drought areas, it is also important to adhere to local and state guidance regarding water usage restrictions.
- Unplug What You’re Not Using
Now, you don’t have to go crazy and unplug everything. However, when you aren’t using certain appliances such as a coffee pot, cell phone & laptop charger, etc. you can unplug these items to make way for the fans you are using to help stay cool. Also shut down the computer, printer and TVs when not in use. Consider it a trade off to help keep you and your bills more comfortable.
- Plan Ahead for Empty Houses
Throughout the summer months, renters are often taking trips whether it’s for the day, weekend or an extended amount of time. While they are away, there is no need for air conditioning to be running. It’s okay for the property to remain on the warmer side when no one is home, which includes households where everyone is at work during the day. Also, this is another opportunity to make sure unused appliances and electronics are turned off and unplugged in order to catch additional savings.
- Meal Prep and Cooking
Turning your oven on during the hot summer months can make the inside of a property heat up to uncomfortable temperatures – even if you are taking action to keep the home cool. Providing your renters with an outdoor space to grill is a great way to help keep them comfortable during the summer months, plus it will give them an opportunity to gather together with friends and family to create those special summertime memories. Cut down on the amount of oven usage when temperatures are hot by choosing to cook with the stove top, grill or by choosing meals such as salads and sandwiches that don’t require cooking. This will help keep the inside of the property more comfortable.
With summer in full swing, take advantage of these helpful tips to keep your renters cool and utility bills from spiking. They can enjoy the season without worrying about the financial burden of staying comfortable all summer long!
By: Laura Mowry
