The heat is on and this summer is feeling hotter than ever! Do you know how to keep your temperatures (and costs!) down in your property? Whether you're renting it or renting it out, a cool unit makes for a happy tenant. Here are our Four Tips for Beating the Heat!
1. HVAC Care
- Set AC units between 75 - 77 degrees
- Clean out your unit once a month during the summer
- Trim bushes and keep any other obstructions away from the HVAC unit
- Service your HVAC unit at least once a year
2. Cool Down Your Fridge
- Keep fridge doors closed: it will take three hours to cool down a warm fridge or freezer
- Defrost freezer every two - three months to prevent built-up frost
- Keep filters clear to circulate temperatures
3. Minimize Humidity
- Run celing fans to circulate hot air, including attic fans
- Turn on exhaust ffans when showering
- Use a dehumidifier in humidity-prone rooms
4. Use Common Sense!
- Only cook what is necessary inside: minimize use of ovens and ranges, especially if they aren't equipped with a hood
- Limit door opening and closing to the outside
- Ensure windows, vents, and ducts are sealed
- Add blinds and UV protectant window treatments and keep closed during the day
We know it can be tempting to turn that AC unit down to 68 in a desperate attempt to cool off; we wish that would work, too! Unfortunately, you'll be looking at an astronomical bill and a still-warm home...possibly with a broken AC unit. Try not to open your doors and windows mid-day to "get that breeze," it will just end up letting in more hot air. Take advantage of fans and outdoor cooking equipment! They'll leave you feeling--and looking--cool.
Do you have any other tips for staying cool in the Charleston heat? Let us know!
800.707.6421