Summer has officially arrived in the Treasure Valley! Over the last few years, the United States has collectively experienced some of the hottest summers. 2021 set a record as the hottest summer EVER! In Boise, the average daily temperature throughout the summer months is in the upper 90s! As a renter, it may sometimes seem like you don't have a lot of control over the energy efficiency in your home. It appears we are gearing up for another warm summer! We have put together a quick user-friendly list of ways to increase the energy efficiency of your rental home.
Change Your HVAC Filter
As a general rule of thumb, you should change your HVAC filter once every 90 days. In the midst of summer, it is a good idea to change your filter at least every 30-45 days. Dirty filters block airflow and decrease the air conditioner's ability to absorb heat and produce cooler air. Clean air filters can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home by 15% or more. Many property managers have opted into automatic filter delivery programs as part of their leasing package. This means that your new filters will arrive right on your doorstep!
Adjust Your Thermostat
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that for optimum energy efficiency your thermostat should be set to 78 Degrees during the summer months. 78 Degrees is the ideal spot between staying cool and keeping your energy bill low. Many property owners are installing SMART thermostats in their rental homes. These thermostats not only increase energy efficiency, but they can also heat and cool by learning your habits at home. This means that your home will be kept warmer when no one is home, and cooler when everyone arrives!
Use Appliances Strategically
It is no secret that ovens generate a ton of heat. If possible, try to use your oven later on in the afternoon to preserve the efficiency of your air conditioning. In the previous years, countertop appliances such as air fryers and toaster ovens can replace a conventional oven and do not generate the amount of heat that an oven will distribute around your home. Other considerations to make during the summer months are washing your clothes in cold water and hang drying rather than using your dryer. You may also consider decreasing the temperature of your hot water heater to decrease your energy use by up to 25%!
Fight The Sunlight
Natural light is one of the best features of any home. The heat generated from the sunlight can also be the enemy of those trying to increase their energy efficiency. Investing in quality shades, and thermal or blackout curtains can assist with reducing your energy costs by 10-25%. Using blackout curtains during the hottest times of the day can keep sunlight-generated heat out, and contain the cool air from your fans and air conditioner inside. While the initial investment isn't cheap, you will find that over time they will more than pay for themselves with reduced energy bills.
Unplug
This one is easy to forget. From your television to your computer, to even your gaming system, all electronics will generate heat when plugged in. Even if your electronics are switched off, there are still levels of heat that are maintained in the wiring. It may not seem like much, but if you add up all of your unused electronics, every little bit helps!
Switch To LEDs
Most households have begun to make the switch to LED lightbulbs. If you are still using incandescent lights, they are extremely inefficient. LED light bulbs are the most energy-efficient option that is currently available. They do cost a little more upfront but will pay for themselves quickly with energy savings. LED lights last 25 percent longer than incandescent lights, and use 75% less energy. Many of these tips will help you to save energy year-round, not just in the summer! When you create positive energy habits, you will improve efficiency and experience money savings on your energy bills! If you would like more information from RentWise Property Management on our services and tenant benefit bundles, please visit us at www.rentwisepm.com