Searching for ways to keep your rental properties cool? Summer is around the corner and once we have the change in the weather it’s not uncommon for tenants to be looking for ways to stay cool during the hot summer months.
Thankfully, there are a variety of things that you can do as a landlord to keep your tenants happy and enjoying their rental properties.
In this article we will share with you seven things that you can do to keep your tenants cool and happy during the summer months.
1. Upgrade Insulation and Seal Leaks
Proper insulation doesn’t just help during the winter—it also plays a massive role in keeping properties cool in the summer. Inspect attics, crawl spaces, and walls to ensure they’re well-insulated. Also, check for and seal any air leaks around windows, doors, vents, and ductwork. Adding weather stripping and caulking small cracks can make a noticeable difference in keeping calm and hot air inside.
2. Install Energy-Efficient Windows or Window Treatments
Windows are one of the biggest culprits for heat gain. If your property has older, single-pane windows, consider upgrading to double-pane or low-emissivity (Low-E) windows. These significantly reduce heat transfer and block UV rays.
If replacing windows isn’t feasible, install energy-efficient window coverings. Options like blackout curtains, thermal drapes, or solar shades can dramatically lower indoor temperatures by blocking out sunlight during peak hours.
3. Provide or Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a simple but effective way to enhance airflow and reduce the need for constant air conditioning. They use far less energy than A/C units, making a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Make sure fans are set to spin counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air downward.
If your rental doesn’t already have fans, consider adding them to living rooms and bedrooms. Tenants will appreciate the added comfort, and it may help reduce wear on the HVAC system.
4. Use Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats offer both landlords and tenants more significant control over energy usage. These devices can automatically adjust the temperature based on occupancy or programmed schedules. Some even let landlords monitor energy usage remotely (with tenant consent).
Providing a smart thermostat helps maintain a comfortable environment and demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency, which can be a strong selling point when advertising your property.
5. Encourage Strategic Landscaping
Landscaping can directly impact how much heat a property absorbs. Planting shade trees, tall shrubs, or climbing vines near sunny windows or walls can provide natural cooling. Deciduous trees are beneficial because they offer shade in the summer but let sunlight through in the winter when their leaves fall.
Also, light-colored gravel or ground cover around buildings should be considered instead of heat-absorbing asphalt or dark mulch. Even minor landscape adjustments can lower surrounding temperatures and reduce the heat penetrating buildings.
6. Use Light-Colored Roofing or Reflective Materials
Dark roofs can absorb a tremendous amount of heat. If your rental property is due for a roof replacement or you’re renovating, consider using light-colored or “cool roofing” materials that reflect sunlight. These materials can help reduce attic temperatures by up to 50°F and significantly reduce cooling costs.
Reflective roof coatings are a budget-friendly alternative to a new roof if one isn’t in the cards yet. They can be applied to existing roofing materials to reduce heat absorption and extend the roof’s lifespan.
7. Maintain the HVAC System
A well-maintained HVAC system is crucial for keeping properties cool efficiently. Regular maintenance helps avoid breakdowns during heat waves, ensures proper airflow, and keeps energy bills manageable for tenants.
Schedule biannual inspections to clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and replace filters. Landlords can also remind tenants (or handle it directly, depending on your lease terms) to change filters every 1–3 months during the summer when systems run most frequently.
Bonus Tip: Educate Tenants on Cooling Strategies
Sometimes, tenants may not know how to keep their space cool. Consider offering a simple guide or tips sheet when they move in or at the start of summer. Suggestions like maintaining blinds closed during peak sun hours, using fans in conjunction with A/C, and minimizing heat-producing appliances during the day can go a long way toward keeping the unit comfortable.
Keeping rental properties cool in the summer is about more than just tenant comfort—it’s an investment in the longevity and value of your property. Whether you own single-family homes, multifamily units, or larger complexes, these cooling strategies can help reduce energy costs, improve tenant retention, and boost your property’s overall appeal.
As a landlord, taking a proactive approach to summer heat is not only smart but also sets you apart as someone who truly cares about your tenants and property performance.
Let our team save you the time, money and hassle of managing your PDX rental properties yourself. Learn more about the property management services that we can offer you by calling us at (503) 646-9664 – Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
