buildingsAs a property manager, you handle numerous responsibilities, such as overseeing tenants, maintaining buildings, managing bills, performing administrative tasks, and more. With so much to monitor, energy efficiency often slips down the priority list. Yet, ensuring your properties are energy-efficient is both profitable and good for the environment. Let’s explore some energy-efficiency tips for property managers.

Maintain HVAC Systems

Heating and cooling units (or HVAC systems) consume the largest percentage of electricity in homes. So, if your systems aren’t up to par, it could cost you hundreds or even thousands extra in energy costs – especially across multiple properties. Follow these tips:

  • Regular maintenance: Clean filters and air ducts regularly to ensure systems run efficiently. Without regular cleaning, the lifespan of your HVAC can decrease. Learn how and when to clean air ducts.
  • Upgrade thermostats: Install programmable or smart thermostats to optimize heating and cooling schedules based on occupancy. This is especially useful if you manage a commercial building that is only occupied during daytime hours.
  • Use zoned heating/cooling: Heating or cooling only occupied areas instead of the entire building can significantly reduce energy costs. For example, is there a vacant apartment unit or business suite in a building you manage? Cut off or reduce the heating/cooling in that area.
  • Seal air leaks: When there are air leaks, your HVAC needs to work harder to maintain the same temperature. Inspect doors, windows, and vents to ensure they are sealed properly to prevent air loss.

Improve Insulation

Property managers often overlook insulation. Out of sight usually means out of mind, and when insulation is present, it’s automatically assumed that it’s working. However, this isn’t always true.

If your building’s insulation is more than 10 years old, it probably lacks the thickness needed to prevent significant heat loss. Inadequate insulation could cause a loss of as much as 25% of heating energy. Ensure walls, roofs, and basements are insulated properly to minimize heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Additionally, if your building’s windows are old, consider installing energy-efficient, double- or triple-glazed windows to help reduce energy loss. This may be a significant cost upfront, but the energy savings will pay off in the long run.

Consider Water Efficiency

Water usage is another sneaky element that property managers can easily overlook. If the buildings you manage are outdated, consider installing low-flow fixtures like faucets, showerheads, and toilets to reduce water consumption.

Additionally, when a tenant reports a leak, address it quickly. The Environmental Protection Agency states that a faucet dripping at one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons annually, which is enough water for more than 180 showers! Check unoccupied areas with faucets and showers as well to ensure you’ve caught all leaks.

Use ENERGY STAR-Rated Appliances

You may be surprised at how much energy you can save with new and upgraded appliances. Specifically, ENERGY STAR-rated appliances are the most efficient on the market. Here are a few examples of easy swaps to make in your buildings. Compared to standard models, ENERGY STAR appliances:

There are hundreds of ENERGY STAR products that can help keep the buildings you manage as energy efficient as possible. Plus, certain products include special rebates that help you save on upfront costs.

Educate Tenants

Unfortunately, you can’t control your tenants’ energy use. You can, however, encourage and promote energy-saving practices. Make posters to hang around your buildings or send a monthly email with tips like turning off lights and equipment when not in use, keeping windows and doors closed when the heat or air is on, promptly reporting leaks or other issues, etc.

You could even implement rewards programs for tenants who actively reduce their energy usage!

Switch to UGI EnergyLink

By choosing UGI EnergyLink, you’ll access reliable energy solutions designed for property management companies and owners like you. Our energy specialists are here to help you manage your properties smoothly and confidently.

Ready to make the switch? Enroll today!