If you are a homeowner, you probably know a thing or two about caring for your HVAC system. Unfortunately, you may be clueless if you are a renter. When it comes to the heating and cooling systems in the renters’ home, they typically do not hold the same level of responsibility as the owner. Understanding how your system works is ideal to help you cut save on your energy bill. It can also help you avoid the hassle of waiting on your landlord to schedule repairs in the event of a breakdown. We at New York Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing provide tips below to get the most out of the HVAC system in your rental home and how you can keep your rental home comfortable and functional year-round.
Document Air Conditioning Problems
Anytime you see your HVAC system having a problem that is visible or audible, you will want to record the damage. Obviously broke, snap a few photos is if something. With a video or audio recording, any strange noise coming from the unit can be captured. While the landlord or handyman is present, you can still show them the problem if the defect does not occur. With the documentation, the back and forth with your landlord or the maintenance person who often can’t assess the problem unless they hear it themselves is prevented. The repairs are likely to get done faster as well. Try to take pictures of all your HVAC equipment when you first move in, so you know the brand name as well as the original condition of the system as well.
Change or Clean Air Filters
Many rental homes and apartments list this as a requirement for tenants. Even if it isn’t specified in your lease agreement, you should still do it. When the air filters are fresh and clean, your air quality improves, and your system is kept running smoothly.
Adjust Thermostat
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering your thermostat when you go to sleep or when you leave the house to save on your heating bill. When it’s time to pay though it may not be worth it to lower the temperature to an uncomfortable level, going down by 1 degree can save you roughly 1%. For running the air conditioner on a hot day, the same principle applies. If you can ease up on the heater or AC and still be comfortable, you can save yourself more money than you might expect. There is a fine line when it comes between optimizing your thermostat and micromanaging. According to a study conducted by Energy Star, people fiddle with their settings too much actually cost themselves money in the long run. While it is good to manage your usage by only using what you need it is not worth it to constantly turn your system off and on in search of the perfect temperature. In short inefficient bursts, this leads to causing your HVAC system to utilize energy. It is best to decide on a temperature and stick with it. When you are ready to leave the house or go to sleep, you can ease up on your usage. These tips will help your HVAC system stay that way for as long as possible while keeping your utility bills low.
Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repair, Replacement & More in Bedford Hills, Manhattan, Flushing, Queens, Brooklyn & The Bronx, New York
For your air conditioning and heating needs in the New York area, call in the experts of New York Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing today.
