Changing Air Filters
Why It Matters More Than You Think by Blake Koch We often think of air filters as simple, routine maintenance items in our homes, something to be checked every few months, but generally out of sight and out of mind. In single-family rental properties, where tenants typically have more autonomy than in multi-family buildings, providing a simple process/solution or even a guide on how to change air filters can go a long way toward ensuring air filters are changed regularly by the residents. For property managers, the importance of air filters cannot be overstated. From improving air quality to reducing maintenance costs and enhancing tenant retention, air filters are an integral part of keeping properties running smoothly. Let’s explore the benefits of air filters for property managers and why investing time and resources in this area can have far reaching impact for both the property owner and the residents. 1 // Improved Indoor Air Quality Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air. At the most fundamental level, air filters are designed to trap airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and bacteria. When the filter becomes clogged or dirty, its ability to capture these particles diminishes, leading to poorer air quality. This can potentially exacerbate respiratory issues, especially for people with allergies or asthma. A clean filter promotes better airflow, reducing the chance of airborne pollutants accumulating and impacting overall health and comfort. By ensuring that air filters are regularly replaced and maintained, as a property manager, you are taking proactive steps to maintaining a comfortable living environment for your residents. 2 // Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings One of the hidden financial benefits of air filters is their impact on the energy efficiency of a home or building’s HVAC system. When air filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and other particles, the HVAC system must work harder to circulate air. This leads to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and greater wear on the system. By changing air filters regularly — typically every 1-3 months for residential properties — you can significantly improve the energy efficiency of the HVAC system. A clean filter ensures adequate airflow, allowing the system to operate at peak efficiency, which in turn reduces energy consumption. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that replacing a clogged filter can reduce energy consumption by 5-15%. This improvement in energy efficiency not only helps lower monthly utility costs for tenants but also reduces the strain on the property owner’s HVAC system, leading to fewer repairs and longer service life. 3 // Prolonged Equipment Life Given that HVAC systems are one of the most expensive components of home/building maintenance, prolonging their lifespan through proper air filter maintenance can lead to substantial savings over time. Much like any other machine, HVAC systems require proper maintenance to run efficiently and last longer. A dirty air filter puts unnecessary strain on the equipment, potentially leading to overheating, wear and tear on components, and even costly breakdowns. When airflow is restricted, it can cause the system’s motor to work harder, increasing the risk of mechanical failure. By staying on top of air filter maintenance, property managers can prevent these issues from arising in the first place. Regular air filter replacement helps keep the HVAC system functioning smoothly, reducing the likelihood of system failures and extending the life of the equipment. This proactive approach to maintenance not only saves money and reduces maintenance calls but also helps maintain a high level of service for tenants while protecting the owner’s investment. 4 // Happy Tenants Happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases, refer friends and family, and leave positive reviews about your property. Ensuring that air filters are regularly changed creates a cleaner, healthier and happier living environment. When tenants feel that their well-being is a priority and the task of changing air filters is simplified and supported, you add value and better the living experience. This can lead to increased tenant retention rates, fewer complaints, and a more positive reputation for your property. While many landlords and property managers are proactive about the maintenance of HVAC systems, it is equally important to educate tenants on the significance of air filter maintenance. Tenants who understand how to check and change air filters are more likely to complete the task. In single-family rental properties, providing filters to the tenants so that they have the correct filter[s] when it is time to change them is an efficient way to check the task off the to do list. Simplify the Air Filter Replacement Process Property managers can offer a proactive service, such as providing filter replacements during regular property inspections or even bundling air filter replacement into the lease agreement and utilize a subscription service. FilterTime simplifies the air filter replacement process by drop-shipping filters directly to residents on the behalf of property managers. When the filter arrives, the resident is reminded to change the filter. By making filter maintenance a standard part of the leasing process, landlords can avoid the pitfalls of neglecting air quality, energy efficiency and system protection. By simplifying air filters, property managers ensure that their homes/buildings operate efficiently, tenants remain healthy and happy, and the property’s long-term value is preserved.
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