Managing a vacation rental comes with its fair share of surprises, but a broken AC during a heatwave? That’s the kind of surprise no guest wants to deal with. So, how do you, as a host, stay ahead of AC problems without turning into a full-time technician?
Here are some AC repair hacks every vacation rental host should know to keep guests cool and your property stress-free.
Start With Proactive Maintenance
Do you schedule regular checkups for your rental’s AC system? You should. Vacation homes often see unpredictable use, which means more strain on your HVAC system. Instead of waiting for something to break, consider these maintenance basics:
- Change the air filter often. A clogged filter restricts airflow and reduces cooling efficiency. For rentals, changing it monthly is a good rule of thumb.
- Clear the outdoor unit. Remove leaves, dirt, and debris so the condenser can breathe. This helps prevent overheating.
- Check the ductwork. Make sure ducts are properly sealed and insulated to prevent energy loss and uneven cooling.
If your rental sees heavy traffic, consider quarterly tune-ups with an HVAC pro. A little extra care goes a long way.
Master Your Thermostat Strategy
Is turning the AC off between guests the best move? Not necessarily. Instead, set the thermostat to a higher but reasonable temperature, like 82–85°F. This keeps humidity under control and reduces the load on the system when it powers back on.
Better yet, install a smart thermostat. These let you adjust settings remotely and create schedules based on occupancy, perfect for rental homes.
Keep an Eye (And Ear) Out For Trouble
Strange noises or smells coming from your AC? Those could be signs of trouble. Teach your cleaning crew or co-hosts to report anything unusual, like:
- Rattling or hissing sounds
- Weak airflow
- Unexpected water leaks
- A spike in energy bills
Addressing small issues early prevents expensive AC repairs down the line.
Educate Your Guests
Most guests aren’t trying to be careless; they just don’t know how your AC works. Leave a short, friendly guide near the thermostat explaining:
- How to adjust the temperature
- What not to do (like turning the unit off completely)
- Who to contact if something goes wrong
Stay Cool, Even When You’re Not There
Running a vacation rental means expecting the unexpected, but with these AC hacks, breakdowns don’t have to be part of the story.
Need expert help to keep your rental’s AC in top shape? Bell Brothers offers reliable AC maintenance and repair services to help you keep your guests comfortable year-round.