How Can You Lower Your AC Bill This Summer?

TL;DR

Using cheap, see-through filters in your air conditioning system during summer can significantly lower your AC bill and prevent costly HVAC repairs. These filters, often termed 'Pebble catchers,' allow for better airflow and help avoid system freeze-up, ensuring efficient cooling while reducing maintenance calls and filter costs.

Transcript

hi there my name is Mindy Jensen and I'm the host of the BiggerPockets money podcast today I'm here with your rookie quick tip to help with your HVAC system to get all the information you need to feel successful in your real estate investing make sure to click like And subscribe to this channel okay let's talk about furnace filters this is summerti... Read More

Key Insights

• Using high-quality filters in summer can cause your HVAC system to freeze, leading to inefficient cooling and potential damage.
• Cheap, see-through filters, known as 'Pebble catchers,' allow better airflow, preventing the HVAC system from overworking.
• Switching to cheaper filters can save money on both filter costs and potential HVAC repair fees.
• Informing tenants about using appropriate filters can reduce maintenance calls and improve cooling efficiency.
• High-quality filters are more suitable for winter when filtering finer particles is beneficial.
• Mindy Jensen emphasizes the importance of understanding HVAC maintenance for real estate investors to minimize unexpected costs.
• Proper HVAC maintenance can enhance tenant satisfaction by ensuring consistent and effective cooling.
• The advice shared is particularly useful for landlords managing rental properties in hot climates during summer months.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main issue with using high-quality filters in summer?

Using high-quality filters during summer can cause the HVAC system to freeze. These filters restrict airflow, making the system work harder to cool the space, which can lead to inefficiency and potential damage. By using cheaper, more breathable filters, you allow the system to operate smoothly and efficiently.

Q: Why are 'Pebble catcher' filters recommended for summer?

'Pebble catcher' filters, which are cheap and see-through, are recommended for summer because they allow maximum airflow through the HVAC system. This prevents the system from freezing and overworking, ensuring efficient cooling. These filters only catch large particles, which is sufficient for summer when air quality concerns are less critical.

Q: How does using the correct filter save on HVAC costs?

Using the correct filter saves on HVAC costs by preventing the system from freezing and overworking, which can lead to expensive repairs. Cheaper filters are also less costly to purchase, and by ensuring better airflow, they reduce the likelihood of maintenance calls, saving on service fees.

Q: What should landlords communicate to tenants about HVAC maintenance?

Landlords should inform tenants about the importance of using appropriate filters during summer to ensure efficient HVAC operation. By educating tenants on switching to cheaper filters, landlords can prevent unnecessary maintenance calls, reduce repair costs, and maintain consistent cooling, enhancing tenant satisfaction and property management.

Q: Why are high-quality filters more suitable for winter?

High-quality filters are more suitable for winter because they effectively filter out finer particles, improving indoor air quality when windows are closed, and ventilation is limited. During winter, the focus is on maintaining air purity rather than maximizing airflow, making these filters more appropriate for the season.

Q: What personal experience did Mindy Jensen share in the video?

Mindy Jensen shared her personal experience of waking up sweaty one night due to her HVAC system going into overdrive. She discovered that using a high-quality filter in summer caused the system to freeze. After consulting an HVAC technician, she learned to use cheap filters for better airflow and cooling efficiency.

Q: How can proper HVAC maintenance benefit real estate investors?

Proper HVAC maintenance can benefit real estate investors by reducing unexpected repair costs and ensuring tenant satisfaction through consistent cooling. By understanding and implementing cost-effective maintenance practices, such as using appropriate filters, investors can manage properties more efficiently and maintain their value over time.

Q: What is the broader significance of the advice given in the video?

The broader significance of the advice given in the video is that simple, cost-effective maintenance practices can significantly impact the efficiency and longevity of HVAC systems. By adopting these practices, homeowners and landlords can save money, reduce maintenance issues, and ensure a comfortable living environment, especially during hot summer months.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Mindy Jensen shares a cost-effective tip for maintaining efficient air conditioning during summer: use cheap, see-through filters instead of high-quality ones. This prevents the HVAC system from freezing and overworking, saving on both filter and repair costs while ensuring better airflow.

• Using the right filter during summer can prevent unnecessary HVAC issues and maintenance calls. Mindy Jensen advises landlords to educate tenants about this practice, which helps maintain efficient cooling and reduces costs associated with HVAC repairs and high-quality filters.

• The video emphasizes the importance of using appropriate furnace filters for summer to maximize airflow and minimize service costs. This simple adjustment can prevent the HVAC system from freezing and ensure consistent cooling, making it a valuable tip for landlords and homeowners alike.