The weather is getting colder and colder out there but before you turn on your furnace or heater, winterizing your investment properties (especially the HVAC system) should be at the top of your to-do list. Your tenants will rely on the heater throughout the cold months of winter, so it’s important to prepare the system for the upcoming winter days. Here are some helpful tips on how to get it ready.
Tip #1: Clean and replace filters
Did you know that dirty and clogged filters can cause big problems? Furnace filters are incredibly important parts of the overall system and if they’re clogged with dirt, pet hair or debris, the flow of warm air can be hindered, which means that the heating system will work harder to keep areas warm and comfortable. If this happens for extended periods of times, the system could break down. Make sure the furnace filters are checked on a routine basis to ensure they are clean and they are replaced on a regular basis as needed.
Tip #2: Clean the inside of the furnace
The inside of the furnace, often at the base of the heater, is where dust and other debris will start accumulating. You should consistently make sure this area is clean through routine maintenance of your heating system. Once it’s clean, it will function efficiently and will be less prone to breaking down in the future.
Tip #3: Keep vents clear of obstruction
Obstructing furnace vents could cause your whole system to not work effectively and could cause it to break down so make sure vents are clear of furniture like couches or bookcases. While you’re looking at the vents, be sure to open them up and clean the insides so they are free of dust or other debris that may cause clogging or potential break down.
Tip #4: Get a professional furnace tune-up
Hiring a professional heating and cooling company to complete an annual maintenance of the heating system is a great investment and one that should be done at the turn of the season. An annual maintenance will ensure the furnace is in proper working conditioning and the HVAC technician can identify potential problems that are unseen that could cause expensive repairs down the road.
Rental properties require a little bit of attention to detail during the bitter cold of winter and taking the extra time to do that will keep your tenants comfortable and allows for the heating system to stay in good working order so you don’t have to plan for any unexpected repairs or premature replacement of the system.
About the author:
Written by Brooke Strickland, freelance writer for Specialty Heating & Cooling. Specialty Heating & Cooling is a full service heating and cooling company in Tigard, OR
5 Steps To Take Care Of Your Rental Property Heating System In Winter
