Spring is the best time to plan and begin upgrades at rental properties. Here are some maintenance tips and energy upgrades to complete this season:

Check vents and filters. After wildfires and a pandemic took over 2020, indoor air quality is at the top of everyone’s mind. Conducting preventative maintenance on forced-air furnaces and ductless heating systems can significantly extend the equipment’s lifespan and circulate healthy air.

Be sure to check filters in forced-air systems monthly to ensure proper airflow. While inspecting and cleaning filters, check to ensure tenants aren’t blocking heating or cooling units with furniture. The flow and efficiency of heating systems can be negatively impacted when supply and return vents are obstructed by furniture.

Clean the filter on the indoor fan-coil unit of ductless pumps once a month to guarantee maximum air flow and efficiency. For ducted HVAC systems, replacement filters are recommended every one to six months depending on use

Go smart. Consider adding smart thermostats to reduce energy costs and keep units comfortable year-round. Small energy-efficient equipment upgrades like installing smart thermostats also help attract new tenants who are looking for energy-efficient amenities.

Check for moisture. Look for mold and moisture in bathrooms that may have built up in the winter from indoor humidity. Consider upgrading to a new energy-efficient bath fan that can improve indoor air quality and help control moisture issues.

For more information on multifamily property upgrades, call 1.877.510.2130, email multifamily@energytrust.org or visit www.energytrust.org/multifamily.