Keep your La Quinta rental properties cool and comfortable for guests during the warmer months. These tips will help you beat the heat in the summer.
INSTALL REFLECTIVE WINDOWS
Solar tint and reflective window films are known to block as much as 78% of solar heat. Installing specialized window films can help protect your rental property from excess sunlight and heat. While it’s possible to install window films on your own, consider hiring a professional to install reflective films on floor-to-ceiling windows as well as for large properties with many windows.
INSTALL AN AWNING OR WINDOW COVERS
In addition to solar tint and reflective film, consider installing awnings, blinds, and other window covers to keep out the rays of the sun. Awnings can reduce up to 77% of solar heat and are particularly helpful at providing shade if there aren’t any mature trees on the property. Window covers can also reduce the amount of light that enters the home and help keep the interior cooler during the day.
INVEST IN A SMART THERMOSTAT
A smart air conditioner or thermostat can be programmed to follow a predetermined cooling schedule for set periods of time. These cooling units can also switch on and off automatically whenever they detect a person within the vicinity. Further, smart thermostats are energy-efficient and will help keep your utility bills low during the warmer months.
CHOOSE COOL LIGHTING SOLUTIONS
Cool lighting solutions include fluorescent lights and LEDs, which don’t emit as much heat as traditional light bulbs. In addition to installing cool lighting fixtures, switch any electrical appliances that are not in use. This will help keep the home cooler during the day.
KEEP ROOMS DARK
It’s only natural to want to open the windows and let light into the home. However, the more sunlight that flows into the home, the warmer it will get. That’s why it is generally advisable to keep the blinds shut during the day, especially on north and west-facing windows. Keep the curtains drawn from morning until late in the afternoon. You can also install blackout curtains to block out heat and keep your rental property comfortable during the day.
OPEN THE WINDOWS AT SUNSET
Wait until sunset to throw the windows open and let in the evening breeze. Doing so will help lower indoor temperatures and make your rental property more comfortable for the rest of the evening. It also helps to open interior doors on the property, such as bedroom and bathroom doors, to help dissipate the heat that may have built up during the day.
USE COTTON FABRICS
Cool and breathable fabric will help keep your rental property more comfortable. If the couch or chairs are upholstered in heavy fabric, cover them with cotton and linen throws to make them more inviting. It also helps to choose breathable fabric in white or pastel shades as light shade cloths can help reflect and diffuse light.
PLACE PLANTS BY THE WINDOW
Place large, leafy plants near the windows. These plants will absorb most of the heat from the sun and help keep the room cool. Choose indoor plants that can withstand direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
Locate your next real estate investment when you work with a La Quinta real estate agent. Feel free to get in touch with me, Kathleen O’Keefe Galigher, at 760.567.7822 or fill out this contact form. As a real estate expert, I specialize in homes for sale in La Quinta, CA. Contact me today for access to listings and more information.