Change of season means tenants’ energy consumption changes. Know when and where you can control costs, maintain safety, and ultimately create a more comfortable living environment.
- Test your GFCI circuit breakers and outlets to make sure they are operating correctly — simply press the test button with a small light or appliance (or even your phone charger). Press the reset button to re-energize the circuit breaker or outlet. GFCI’s protect the tenant and your property from shock or possibly fire. They should be in every kitchen and bathroom.
- Tenants will be using more lighting in the upcoming months — Lighting is one of the largest expenditures in utilities. Save money by installing energy efficient light fixtures and bulbs, and installing motion sensors in common areas.
- Make sure no lamps or parking lot lighting needs to be replaced, and consider installing security lighting and landscape lighting — it will keep your property safer as darkness falls earlier each day.
- Hurricane Season is here… test your back up generators to ensure they are working properly, and make sure surge protection is in place.
- Have a list of approved holiday lighting decorations and safe practices available to your tenants. Not only do holiday lights pose an electrical fire hazard, they consume a lot of energy.