With Summer in full swing, Charleston’s temperatures are up and thermostats are down. It is time to get your HVAC inspected so your rental properties can continue to stay cool all summer long.
Efficiency
Checking your HVAC systems and ensuring their efficiency is an essential task for any homeowner, especially rental property owners. Regular inspections keep utility costs down and allow your machines to run as smoothly as possible. An efficient HVAC system is essential to reducing energy consumption at your rental property which in turn reduces heating and cooling costs for you and your tenants. The most common source of HVAC inefficiency is clogged filters as a result of not changing them as frequently as recommended. For Charleston homes, this is once a month to every 90 days. This simple fix can take thousands of dollars off of heating and cooling bills by making your HVAC system run more efficiently. Additionally, regular maintenance is essential for catching issues before they arise which will save you and your tenants a potential headache. By keeping your HVAC system up to date, you can prevent serious complications within your rental property and keep air conditioning and heating costs down, while keeping your lessees cool and comfortable.
Charleston Weather
Charleston summers are notoriously hot and humid, making a recipe for disaster in the event that your HVAC system were to fail; also worth considering is the fact that hot and humid weather is a breeding ground for mold if your HVAC system is not working properly. Due to the damp air, poor ventilation can allow for humidity to seep into your home bringing the moisture necessary for mold growth. It is especially important to keep a check on ventilation in Charleston’s many historic homes and properties. As beautiful as these homes are, they often suffer from poor ventilation as a result of their age, thus, making HVAC maintenance and inspection crucial to maintaining the beauty of these properties.
What to Expect
Once you’ve scheduled your regular HVAC inspection, it is important to work with your renters to determine a time that best fits both of your schedules for the inspection. Both parties being present will allow any and all questions to be answered about the property in one setting. You will be able to answer questions about the HVAC systems within the home and your renter can speak on the day to day state of the HVAC system. After the inspection, continue to check in with tenants on the quality of the air and if they are satisfied with the operation of the HVAC systems. After all, your renters are the ones experiencing the day to day effects of the HVAC inspection and will be the first to notice any issues that arise. This open communication is vital for predicting potential HVAC issues that may arise and allows for proactive work to be done to mitigate potential issues. Additionally, it will allow for the best renting experience for your tenants and allow you to keep your rental property operating efficiently.
Keep it Local
Now that you have decided it is time to get your bi-annual HVAC inspection, searching for an inspection company is the next step. When looking, try to find a local HVAC specialist you can trust. Local companies often know the unique effects of the Charleston climate on HVAC systems better than a large, nationwide chain. Having an expert on the effects of the humidity on your HVAC system can save you money and make sure you are receiving the best, most efficient maintenance. HVAC inspections must be executed, so why not support a local, family-owned company while you’re at it!
HVAC inspections may not be the most glamorous side of owning a rental property, but they are an essential part of maintaining the integrity of your property and the comfort of your tenants. No one wants to be without air conditioning, especially in Charleston’s summer months, so make sure to schedule your HVAC inspections ASAP!
