Energy-saving tips can come in handy, especially as a vacation rental owner. Here are some suggestions to help run your vacation rental as energy-efficient as possible. This will save you money, it’s great for the planet, and it will make you and your guests feel good!
Tip number 1: Replacing light bulbs with LED bulbs
Luckily, Energy Star certified LED lightbulbs are a lot cheaper than before. LED bulbs save a lot of electricity over incandescent bulbs. You could save up to $135 per year just by trading one bulb out. LED bulbs can also last up to 20 years!
If your unit has CFL bulbs, you may want to consider the change to LED bulbs soon. CFL bulbs have small amounts of mercury in them that could escape into the air if you break a bulb in your condo.
Tip number 2: Install light-blocking curtains
Install light-blocking curtains in the living room and bedrooms. This helps keeps the unit cool so that the guests don’t have to use the A/C as often. Making small changes like this one is a good example of energy-saving tips that are often overlooked. In addition, it will help guests sleep better!
Tip number 3: Get as many Energy Star appliances as possible
You can get Energy star versions of air conditioning units, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dehumidifiers, and smart thermostats. Energy Star rating means that a product meets certain federally mandated guidelines regarding energy efficiency. This results in saving you money on your electricity bill!
Also, check with your local energy company for rebate programs. They will sometimes take your old appliances away and give you a rebate for getting a qualifying Energy Star replacement model.
Tip number 4: Consider solar water heaters and electricity
Consider installing a solar water heater and solar electricity for your property, if it is feasible for you. Solar hot water heating systems can cut your energy bill by 40%! You may also be able to receive state and federal rebate tax credits for going solar.
Check with the most current tax laws in your state to see what the savings are. After you make these changes, be sure to list them in your profile. This way, your potential guests can see what you have done to upgrade the energy efficiency in your unit.
As a result of these energy-saving tips, many eco-minded travelers will appreciate these steps and will book with you over other places!
