As a property owner, you balance comfort and functionality for tenants, while keeping overhead costs low. But every property needs the occasional update to be competitive on the market, and some changes can lower costs while upping the appeal.
Renters look for amenities that make the unit a great value for the price. Next to rent, utility costs are the second-largest expense, so for the cost-conscious consumer, few features are as appealing as those that promise lower monthly utility expenses than similarly priced homes.
These improvements can also improve the property’s value in the long term — nice features to tout when selling or refinancing.
“Improving a rental property’s energy efficiency is a win-win for the owner and the occupant,” said Energy Services Supervisor DuWayne Dunham. “Clark Public Utilities offers incentives and rebates to help property owners prioritize investments in those energy-saving home improvements.”
Owners of electrically heated rentals ranging from four or fewer living units within one building down to a single-family home are eligible for all current utility residential energy-efficiency programs, so long as other qualifying criteria are met.
There are numerous incentives, rebates and loans available to make a home-improvement project more affordable. Products like heat pumps, ductless heat pumps, double- or triple-pane windows, and heat pump water heaters will help lower a home’s energy expenses, improve personal comfort and raise a property’s value. Improved insulation and home weatherization are immediately effective and often finished in an afternoon.
To qualify for an incentive from the utility, the work must be done by a contractor participating in the Clark Public Utilities Contractor Network. The network isn’t an endorsement, recommendation or warranty; it’s a list of contactors who’ve met the standards to represent the utility’s programs and guide customers through the rebate process. Getting more than one project bid is always recommended.
Rental properties with qualifying low-income tenants may be eligible for significant weatherization upgrades, but the property owner must initiate the process with the utility. Homes with occupants who qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) weatherization program can get additional insulation, air leaks sealed and more. The program can also assist with other minor weatherization repairs such as heating systems and ventilation issues.
To find out more, visit clarkpublicutilities.com or call the Clark Public Utilities Energy Counselor of the Day at 360-992-3355, or email ecod@clarkpud.com.
For a first step, upgrading a thermostat, can save energy and improve comfort in most types of homes. Modern line voltage thermostats for cable ceiling heaters, wall heaters and baseboard heaters will help tenants dial in heating preferences based on their schedule and needs. Smart thermostats will make an electric furnace or heat pump run as efficiently and comfortably as possible.
Beyond big investments, there are many improvements that can be done in little time and for little money. Adding or replacing caulking around windows, doorframes and siding is inexpensive and goes a long way toward reducing energy waste, controlling moisture and preserving a home’s good condition. Replacing or installing weatherstripping around windows and exterior doors is also low cost and can result in immediate savings while increasing comfort.
This is an ideal time of year for annual heating and cooling system maintenance and an inspection by a professional. A handy property owner or maintenance person can replace the filters in a furnace or give zonal heaters (baseboard or wall heaters) a good cleaning. Regular service helps ensure these systems operate safely and efficiently.
Energy Adviser is written by Clark Public Utilities. Send questions to ecod@clarkpud.com or to Energy Adviser, c/o Clark Public Utilities, P.O. Box 8900, Vancouver, WA 98668.
