14,000 people experience water damage at home or work each day. Yes, you read that right, EACH DAY! Whether a leaky water heater turns into a geyser or a toilet overflows, water damage can cost you in more ways than one.
Electric bill + Columbia weather = one hefty price tag. Living in Columbia, SC we all prepare for the summer months by lowering our thermostats, constantly drinking ice-cold water and spending the least amount of time possible outside. When we get that June electric bill, we know it will be higher than that of our “winter” months. So how can we save our bank accounts while making sure we don’t melt in the process? Here are a few tricks and tips to help you stay cool this summer. Keep your freezer full. Experts note that the food acts as insulation, and items packed together stay cooler and lighten the load on the refrigerator. Make use of ceiling fans to cool rooms, decreasing the demand on the air conditioner. Turn off heat dry on the dishwasher. Lots of energy goes to heating the dishes to get them dry. If you have the time, letting them air dry can save energy. Turn down the heat on the hot water system (or ask your property manager to assist you). About 13 percent of a home’s electric use goes to heating water in the hot water tank. A lower temperature setting uses less energy. Close doors and vents. If you are spending time in the family room, why waste energy trying to cool the basement or guest room? Turn off your lights. I know, sounds silly, but it really can save you money in the long run. Inspect your AC unit. This is a great time to reach out to your landlord or property manager to make sure that everything in the unit is running properly and efficiently.
When you invest in a property, with the intention to rent it out, there are many tasks that have to be performed on a regular basis in order for you to succeed as a property owner. Owners must advertise their property, show their property and be able to manage the property 24/7. These are just a few of the tasks that need to be performed in order to gain a full, long-term profit of a property. APM Realty is here to let you in on a little secret -all this work doesn’t have to be perfected by you!