Green Rentals - Tips From Park City Property Management
Going green with your personal or rental property is something that many people are interested in but perhaps don't have an idea of where to begin. I recently posted an article highlighting one of the easiest ways: LEDs - A Bright Idea For Park City Property Management. Today I would like to give some more broad information and tips on on how to make your property more green, starting with simple things and moving on to more complex methods and practices.
Slow The Flow
Using low-flow toilets, faucets and aerators is a great way to reduce water consumption in a property. Some people dislike this method of saving but over the course of a year many gallons of water are saved by their use. As these fixtures also regulate the amount of hot water used there is also a savings on your heating bill. In a case study on the use of low-flow fixtures LaGuardia Airport in New York installed low-flow faucets and aerators, toilets, urinals, and shower heads as part of a water conservation program. The total cost for the fixtures was $89,745. Through these simple measures they were able to recoup all of their costs for installation, through a savings on their water bill, in only 8 months. If you would llike to read more on the case study at LaGuardia you can click here. Water, particularly in the arid western states, is a very important commodity. By taking small steps like using low-flow fixtures, cutting back on water waste, and being generally conservation-minded we will all save a little money and a lot of water. The potential impact would be huge for Utah property management.
Insulating and Air Sealing
Insulation is a very affordable and easy to install method for saving energy. Any building should have what experts call a tight envelope. The idea is to keep air flow between the inside and outside to a minimum. Adding additional insulation to the attic not only keeps warm 
or cold air in your property but will also help keep the cold winter wind and the hot summer sun from effecting the inside of the property. Adding insulation to the inside of walls can be difficult but there are options including blown in insulation that can facilitate this type of retrofit. Another way to reduce air loss to the outside is be doing a pressure test. This typically involves an expert with special equipment locating areas in your house or condo where you are experiencing air loss. Typical areas of air loss include along base boards and windows, recessed lighting, outlets and plumbing penetration. These areas can be sealed by using caulk, foam, or gaskets depending upon the area being sealed. Having a tight building envelope can reduce heating a cooling costs, which translate into more dollars saved and less energy wasted.
Solar, Energy Star, HVAC, And More
Solar energy is something I am particularly passionate about. I have spoken with many friends and neighbors who are either considering of have installed solar systems. I've had a solar contractor out to assess my home, and I hope to have solar panels installed in the near future. Solar panels are installed with a goal of having a net zero electricity usage in a calendar year. During the summer months excess electricity is fed back into the power grid and you receive a credit on your electric bill. During winter months you are able to use up that credit arriving at a net cost of zero. There are specific formulas that solar contractors use to determine your energy usage and the number of cells necessary to meet this goal. Most systems are scalable as well. Energy Star appliances are another way to save money in the long run. These appliances will have a yellow sticker detailing the estimated cost to run an appliance over a year, usually a good savings over less efficient appliances. There are also 95% efficient furnaces, tankless hot water heaters, geothermal hot water systems, and triple pane windows, all of which reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency. Many of these systems are also available to receive government incentives. Check with your local utility company, government agency, or licensed contractor for more information.
If you are interested in learning more about property management Park City Utah, download our free white page "5 Questions Every Landlord Should Ask Themselves".
