Keeping both heating and cooling systems running in a vacant rental property might seem like an unnecessary expense, but it's actually a crucial practice that can prevent costly damages and protect your investment. Here's why maintaining moderate temperatures year-round is essential:
Winter Concerns: Preventing Cold Weather Damage
Prevent Pipe Damage
The most critical reason to keep heat running is to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. When water freezes, it expands, potentially causing pipes to crack or burst. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.
Protect Building Materials
Cold temperature fluctuations can harm various building components:
- Wooden floors and trim can warp or crack
- Drywall may develop cracks as materials expand and contract
- Paint can peel due to temperature-related moisture issues
- Cabinet materials might delaminate
Summer Concerns: Managing Heat and Humidity
Moisture Control
High humidity in warm climates can cause serious problems:
- Mold and mildew growth in closets and bathrooms
- Warping of wooden doors and windows
- Musty odors that are difficult to eliminate
- Damage to wallpaper and paint
Prevent Heat Damage
Excessive heat can cause various issues:
- Buckling of hardwood floors
- Damaged electronics and appliances
- Melted or damaged vinyl materials
- Compromised integrity of adhesives in flooring and wallpaper
Pest Prevention
Climate control helps deter pests that seek warm, humid environments. Many insects and rodents are attracted to dark, warm spaces with high humidity levels.
Year-Round Benefits
Mold Prevention
Maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels helps prevent moisture accumulation that can lead to mold growth—an issue that's expensive to remediate and can affect tenant health.
Property Showings
A climate-controlled property is more appealing to potential tenants during showings. Walking into an extremely hot or cold property can immediately turn off prospective renters. Maintaining a climate controlled property can help prevent extended vacancies by offering a comfortable environment that prospective renters can see as their new home.
Cost-Effective Solution
While utility bills during vacant periods might seem like a burden, they're typically much lower than:
- Emergency plumbing repairs (Average Cost $150-$5,000*)
- Water damage restoration (Average Cost $1,348-$6,263*)
- Mold remediation (Average Cost $2,363*)
- Structural repairs
- Lost rental income during extended repairs
- HVAC system damage from long periods of disuse
*Average costs provided by Homeadvisor.com 2024 national averages
Recommended Temperature Settings
Winter Months
- Keep the thermostat set to at least 60°F (15.5°C)
- This temperature prevents freezing while keeping utility costs reasonable
Summer Months
- Set air conditioning no higher than 80°F (27°C)
- Use humidity control settings if available
- Consider a programmable thermostat to run the system periodically if full-time operation is cost-prohibitive
Money-Saving Tips
- Install a smart thermostat for remote monitoring and control
- Ensure proper insulation to maximize efficiency
- Regular HVAC maintenance to prevent system failures
- Consider dehumidifiers in especially humid climates
Remember: The cost of prevention is always lower than the cost of repairs. Maintaining moderate temperature levels year-round is a fundamental aspect of responsible property management that protects your investment and reduces long-term expenses.