If you own or manage a short-term rental property in a beach or summer destination, it is important to maintain your air conditioner to ensure that your guests stay cool and comfortable during their stay. Here are the top five tips for maintaining your air conditioner and keeping associated costs as low as possible:
- Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly: The air filter in your air conditioner collects dust, dirt, and other particles, which can clog the filter and make it difficult for the air to flow through. This can cause your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to, leading to higher energy bills and potentially even damage to the system. To prevent this, clean or replace your air filter regularly. Depending on the usage, a filter should be cleaned or replaced every 1-3 months. The filter should be checked every month to determine if it might need replacing.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance Check-Ups: To keep your air conditioning system in good condition, it is important to schedule regular maintenance check-ups with a professional HVAC technician. They can identify any issues before they become major problems, and can clean and tune-up your system to keep it running efficiently.
- Use a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by adjusting the temperature in your rental property automatically. Set the thermostat to a higher temperature when the property is unoccupied, and lower it when guests arrive. This can also help extend the life of your air conditioner. Ask your AC professional about your options for a WiFi programmable thermostat. Many AC companies will be happy to install one that you may have elected to purchase on your own – Expert Home Service regularly performs this type of work to make sure all the connections are made correctly and that the device is functioning properly.
- Protect Your Air Conditioner from Electrical Surges During Storms: Summers in Florida mean frequent thunder and lighting storms. It’s wise to protect your air conditioner in the very same way you protect other valuable electronic devices like televisions and computers with a surge protector. You can avoid unnecessary and very expensive repairs to replace blown circuit boards and damaged motors that are a result of power surges during storms. Ask your AC professional about options to protect your air system with surge protection.
- Educate Your Guests: Finally, make sure to educate your guests on how to use the air conditioner properly. Provide clear instructions on how to adjust the thermostat, and encourage them to turn the thermostat temperature up a few degrees if they will be away for 12 or more hours. You may also want to include information on how to properly maintain the air conditioner during their stay, such as cleaning or replacing the air filter if necessary.
In summary, maintaining an air conditioner in a beach destination short-term rental property is crucial to ensuring that your guests have a comfortable stay. Regular cleaning and maintenance, the use of a programmable thermostat, protecting the unit from salt air and sand, and educating your guests are all key factors in keeping your air conditioning system in top condition. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your air conditioner and save energy and money in the process.