There are many ways to make a rental property more energy efficient and while some of these upgrades are inexpensive, other add-ons may involve a more substantial investment. The question then is, over time can the utility savings make an efficiency upgrade worth the cost.
So, what does an energy-efficient rental property look like? Here's a few options to consider....
To see significant savings on energy costs, solar panels are the way to go. Solar panel technology has come a long way in recent years, making it much more cost-effective to invest in a solar system for your rental property. Some solar installers may also offer incentives or payment plans that can help reduce your upfront costs. Plus, many states offer a healthy tax deduction for solar energy systems.
One upgrade you can do right now is to make sure that your rental property’s windows and doors are properly sealed. Air leaks are one of the biggest culprits of poor energy efficiency. By simply caulking around door and window frames or adding some weather-stripping, you can give your rental home an instant efficiency boost.
New windows are incredibly energy efficient, since many block both heat and light. New windows can also solve problems with condensation, moisture damage, and more.
Without proper insulation in walls, attics, and basements, your rental could be prone to problems like frozen pipes, climate control issues, and can even shorten the life of your HVAC unit.
Sometimes, improving energy efficiency can be as easy as changing a light bulb. In fact, switching all of the light bulbs in your rental property to long-lasting LED bulbs could save you both time and money all year. Energy-efficient lighting is designed to stay lit for months or even years, significantly reducing the cost and frequency of replacement.
Improving the energy efficiency of your rental properties may not be difficult, but it will take time and many big decisions! Contact us at C&C Property Management to make recommendations customized to your properties and situation.
Corporate Office
C&C Monterey PM Inc. DRE 01526734
Kyle Chernetsky DRE 01928366
Kevin Cesario DRE 01953086