Summer in the Cape Fear region is hot and humid. If you have rental properties, you are required to provide air conditioning to tenants. And for all parties involved, it is important that your air conditioning unit works properly.
 
By spending the time and the investment to ensure the air conditioning systems at your properties are efficient and maintained, you can save yourself a headache or two. When a cooling system malfunctions, renters will call immediately and require prompt maintenance. After all, not having proper air conditioning can, on some days, be life-threatening.
 
You should take action today to prevent problems with air conditioning at any rental properties you own.

First, start by cleaning any and all air conditioning units thoroughly. This includes opening them, removing debris, spraying the fins, and leveling the pad if it sits on one. We recommend following these 10 steps for cleaning air conditioning units. If you are not a local owner or don’t have the opportunity to DIY this task, many companies will be happy to provide regular maintenance service. Just be sure to book soon as their schedules get busy as the heat lingers.
 
Second, enter the property on a regular basis and be sure that all filters are clean. Filters for central and window units should be replaced monthly. Before purchasing a filter, you’ll want to know which one your unit requires. Also keep in mind they do not have to be expensive filters. Most HVAC companies will tell you that the most important thing is just having the filter and that it is clean. While changing a filter isn’t hard, do not expect your tenants to perform this task. Plan out a schedule to ensure that a service provider changes the filters on a regular basis. By keeping these clean, you can limit the amount of work the system has to do, which prolongs the unit’s life span and makes it more efficient.
 
Third, look for any leaks. Studies show that ducts can lose up to 30 percent of airflow through leaks. Consider using the “smoke trick,” holding a smoking candle or incense near a window and seeing where and if the smoke blows to find any leaks. Then plug them up.
 
Fourth, as a property owner, know when it is time to invest in a new system. If the air conditioning unit is continually having problems or performing below standard despite all of the preventative steps taken, it may be time for a new one. The good news is that a new air conditioning unit may be considered a tax deduction. Also, if you delay installing a new one in and a tenant is stuck without heat or air conditioning for a period of time, your tenant may ask for reimbursement of the rent or accommodations elsewhere.
 
A well-performing air conditioning unit is critical for the long-term success, and occupancy, of your rental property. If you need help managing the condition of your cooling systems, let us know. At Sweyer Property Management, we have decades of experience and are able to help. Contact us today to get started.
 
Sweyer Property Management has been providing real estate property management services and long-term rentals to the Wilmington area since 1987. The company continues to be the industry leader with more than 1400+ units and more than 20 employees. Sweyer Property Management has exhibited continuous growth throughout the Wilmington, Leland and Hampstead areas while maintaining a 4.8 Google+ rating for customer service. To inquire about the company’s full-service management services, or to take a tour of houses for rent in the area, email [email protected], visit us online at WilmingtonForRent.com or download our mobile app, Sweyer Rentals. You can also Like and follow the Sweyer Property Management Facebook page to get property management tips or see properties for rent.