Energy-Saving Maintenance and Repair

With the growing amount of attention being paid to global warming, conservation efforts are in full swing throughout many industries. Hotels, businesses and industry are making changes that benefit not only the environment but their own bottom line in the process.

Rental property management is no different. Though small changes may not seem profound enough to have an effect, some simple energy-saving methods can lower your monthly costs considerably.

Consider, for example, lighting. It is important to keep common areas of the building well lit so that people feel safe and secure. Have you thought about installing timers on hallway lights?

• During the daylight hours, see if you can light only every other light fixture. Then at dusk, have all of the lights come on.
  
• Consider installing motion detector lights in areas not commonly in use, such as laundry rooms and storage areas. In these common areas, you rarely count on tenants to turn off lights after they leave. A motion detector light can reduce wasted electric.

Water bills are another overlooked source of waste. A running toilet or a dripping faucet may be a minor annoyance to a tenant. But the wasted water leads to higher water bills for you, the landlord. Routinely check for yourself that all faucets and toilets are working properly.

• Ensure bathrooms are equipped with water-saving showerheads. Your tenants likely will not notice any difference, and you will appreciate the water savings.
  
• Consider installing low-flow toilets, adjusting flush vales or putting in dams on existing toilets to reduce water waste. You can also purchase water-conserving ice makers for your freezers.

As your current appliances wear out, look at replacing them with energy-efficient models. The initial costs of these types of appliances may be higher, but your energy costs will be significantly lower in the long run.