As a property manager, maintaining the systems in the houses you own is crucial for keeping the tenants happy and protecting the investment.
The HVAC system is one of the most important to inspect and maintain, especially in a hot and humid area like central Florida.
Below, heating and cooling experts from Blue National HVAC will discuss how carrying out proper HVAC maintenance in Winter Haven and the surrounding cities can potentially save you thousands of dollars.
1. Repairs Can Be Expensive
Managing properties is all about protecting your upside, and one of the best ways to do that is to limit your expenses. HVAC systems are under constant stress in humid subtropical climate zones like Winter Haven, which means the components will need replacement if you don’t maintain them.
The average cost of HVAC repair in Florida is around $300, but replacing components that have broken down completely can reach into the thousands of dollars.
On the other hand, ensuring the belts are replaced, moving parts are lubricated, and everything is working as intended without undue stress can help lengthen your equipment’s lifespan and reduce the need for frequent repair.
2. Problems Are Common
HVAC equipment is not only expensive to repair and replace, but it’s also one of the most likely systems to go down in your property.
Unlike plumbing and electrical fixtures, HVAC equipment is called on constantly to combat those dreaded 90 degree days common from May through October. Even outside of the summer months, residents of Winter Haven are likely to use air conditioning to make their living space more comfortable.
With such strain on the mechanical equipment, issues are common if you fail to maintain the system. You’ll end up spending more time and money keeping your tenants happy and comfortable than if you kept up with system maintenance.
3. Lower Utility Bills
A clean, properly maintained HVAC system will run smoothly and efficiently, providing cool and comfortable air to your property with minimal electricity. A stressed system that doesn’t receive regular maintenance will be far less efficient, increasing your electric bill each month.
Keeping your HVAC system running as intended is especially important in an area like central Florida, as using a poorly maintained system consistently throughout the year will naturally lead to higher and higher energy costs. Ultimately, the increased cost of running the air conditioning will cut into your margins as a property owner.
4. It Keeps Your Tenants Happy
While you might not enjoy the comfort and clean air provided by your HVAC system as a property manager, your tenants certainly will. Maintaining a safe and desirable environment for your tenants is not only a responsibility but will also entice them to continue renting from you, which keeps your property occupied and profitable.
Even if the occupants of your property don’t notice a difference in the indoor temperature or air quality, you can inform them that you’re going above and beyond to keep them safe and comfortable, which will once again entice them to stay and continue paying rent.
5. It Safeguards Against Mold
Carrying out regular HVAC maintenance will reduce the risk of mold growth in your property. During maintenance, an inspection of the components will be completed, which will reveal any excess moisture or mold spores on the condenser coils or in the drain pan, drain line, and ducts. Unfortunately, mold in HVAC equipment is common in areas like Winter Haven due to the naturally high, year-round humidity.
If mold growth is caught early, a simple cleaning will usually suffice to keep it under control. However, if the mold in your HVAC system is left unchecked, it will continue to grow and could lead to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in remediation, not to mention sickness or allergy symptoms for occupants. Remember: as a property manager, you’re responsible for keeping your property habitable, which includes removing mold growth.
6. It Keeps Your Property Safe
Finally, maintaining your HVAC system safeguards your property, which will bring you peace of mind that your investment is adequately protected.
HVAC wiring can get damaged from everyday use or in severe tropical storms that are prevalent in Florida. Something as simple as a frayed wire — which would be caught during routine maintenance — can start a fire that could cause immense property damage.
Routine HVAC maintenance costs a bit upfront, but it’s always worth it to protect one of your most significant investments.
Wrapping Up
Owning and managing investment properties in Florida can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. One of the most important things you can do to protect your investment property is to maintain the HVAC system, especially in a hot and humid area like Winter Haven, where it will be in use almost constantly throughout the year.
Ensuring your HVAC components are running as intended will reduce problems, system outages, and costly repairs. It will also keep your property and tenants safe from harm and, most importantly, will help protect your profit margin.
