One of the most vital systems in a rental property is the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. You need to make sure that your HVAC system keeps your tenants comfortable all year, and it also contributes to the longevity of your property. Since it is such a vital system, you need to be aware of the most common issues that may occur – and how to correct them. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 HVAC issues and how to fix them to make things easier for busy investors like you.
Blocked Registers and Vents
If your tenants complain about inefficient heating or cooling in the rental home, you should first make sure that the registers and vents aren’t blocked. Furniture, home décor, and storage containers can all obstruct registers and vents, producing airflow issues. By cleaning the space around each vent and register, you can improve how your HVAC system functions.
Dirty Filters
Another common issue with HVAC systems is that filters aren’t replaced often. HVAC filters help maintain the proper air circulation by keeping debris and dust out of your ducts and equipment. If the filter gets blocked by dust, the HVAC system will have to add effort to heat or cool the home, and the components inside may also be damaged. The problem is easy to fix: make sure that the filter is being changed along with the manufacturer’s instructions. Although a lot of systems need a new filter every three months or so, some systems may need the filters replaced as often as once a month.
Obstructed Condenser Unit
One of the most common reasons an HVAC system starts to lose efficiency is because leaves and debris have gathered around the unit, blocking the condenser. An obstructed condenser unit can cause your HVAC unit to overheat, sooner or later damaging it. To correct the issue, clear the area around your HVAC unit, including any leaves or debris that may be sticking to the exterior.
Dirty Coils
Like the condenser, the condenser coils are an important part of an HVAC system. When the coils get filthy, the HVAC system can’t keep the air moving well, and your unit could get too hot. Because of this, you should have your condenser coils cleaned regularly, about once or twice a year.
Dirty or Leaky Ducts
If you don’t change your HVAC filters often, dust can build up in the ductwork, narrowing the airflow space. In older houses, it’s even possible for ducts to become dirty or leaky due to rodents, insects, or cracks and holes. Any of these issues will reduce airflow and make your HVAC system work less well. To make sure that your ducting is not the cause of the problem, be sure to have it inspected and cleaned whenever necessary.
Slow Blower Fan
All HVAC systems use one or more blower fans to move air throughout the rental house. If a blower fan is faulty, it can cause airflow issues and make your HVAC system much less efficient. Over time, fans can make worn or become coated in grime. The solution to a slow blower fan is to have it inspected and either cleaned or replaced the moment the cause of the issue is identified.
Leaking Refrigerant
If your HVAC system is old-fashioned (or has not been kept very well before), you may have a refrigerant leak. Leaking refrigerant can cause reduced cooling and airflow issues. Generally, the problems get worse over time as the refrigerant slowly leaks out. To solve the issue, carefully inspect and repair your unit with a qualified HVAC technician.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can make it tricky to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house while making your HVAC unit work harder than it should. If your HVAC unit is inspected and you can’t find any problems, inspect and replace your thermostat before thinking you need to replace your entire system.
Wrong Size Unit
Units that are too small won’t heat and cool your property efficiently, while units that are too big will often cycle on and off too frequently, generating stuffy interiors and high humidity levels. To address the problem, have an HVAC expert look at your heating and cooling demands and tell you if you need to replace your current unit with one the proper size for your rental property.
Outdated HVAC System
At last, another standard HVAC system issue is that the unit or the ductwork is antiquated or out-of-date. This happens common in older homes that have been renovated, mostly if the HVAC system, ducting, and other parts of the house aren’t updated. To improve the airflow of your HVAC unit, talk to an expert about replacing your ductwork. It’s possible that small changes can have a big effect.
A lot of typical issues with HVAC systems can be addressed by having regular, professional maintenance done each year. Yet, remembering to schedule HVAC maintenance can be challenging when you have a lot of things that need your attention. Rather, why not entrust the care and maintenance of your rental properties to the specialists in South Gate and nearby? Real Property Management Simplified is ready to help you make the most of your rental income. To find out more, contact us online or at 213-408-0500 right now!
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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