As society becomes more open to sustainable living and reducing its carbon footprint, rental property owners may want to consider upgrading their properties to be more eco-friendly. Not only will an environmentally friendly space be more appealing to some renters, but it could also save you and your tenants a lot of money in the long run.

If you are a Henderson or Las Vegas landlord or rental property owner, here are some easy and effective ways to enhance your rental property and make it much more energy-efficient.

1. Get a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

One simple change you can make right away is to install a programmable or smart thermostat. These types of thermostats are relatively inexpensive and allow tenants to set timers or adjust the property’s temperature while they are not home.

While this might not seem like a big change, the difference reflected in the energy bill can be substantial. Additionally, programming the HVAC unit to switch off or adjust throughout the day automatically means less non-renewable energy consumption and not as much strain on the environment.

2. Install Ceiling Fans

Another way to improve your rental property’s eco-friendliness is to install ceiling fans. As summer approaches and temperatures rise in Henderson and Las Vegas and across the country, an energy-saving ceiling fan will help tenants circulate cool air and put less demand on the air conditioner.

The U.S. Department of Energy shares that certified ENERGY STAR® ceiling fans are 60% more efficient than other types of fans and help to protect the environment by reducing greenhouse emissions.

3. Update Property Insulation

You can also make your HVAC system more energy efficient and use less energy by updating your property’s insulation and weather stripping on doors and windows. This helps to keep the temperatures inside the apartment or rental home less susceptible to outdoor weather.

Better insulation also ensures rental occupants are more comfortable during the hot summer season and cold winter months, which can help you retain quality tenants.

4. Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

Outside of your rental property’s HVAC system, you should also take a look at your other appliances. Old or outdated refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, water heaters, and other appliances can use up an excessive amount of energy and water.

While it might be an upfront expense, energy-efficient appliances are an important factor potential tenants look for in a rental property. On top of saving money, it helps them feel good about doing all they can to protect the environment.

5. Consider Installing Solar Panels

If you own a rental home, installing solar panels may offer potential benefits, including:

• Typically, low installation costs.
• State-sponsored incentive programs.
• Possible tax credits and rebates.
• Long-term savings on electric bills.
• Renewable energy for your rental property.

Because solar power is a renewable energy source, it is particularly appealing to tenants who prioritize energy sustainability. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that solar energy has the potential to greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, slow climate change, reduce the demand for water, and improve overall air quality.

6. Convert the Yard to Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Water is a precious and limited resource, especially in Henderson and Las Vegas and the southwestern states currently experiencing drought. As a result, tenants want to do their part in water conservation efforts.

If your rental home does not already have desert landscaping, it may be time for a change. Some upgrades to consider include:

• Remove grass and replace it with artificial turf.
• Install a drip irrigation system rather than using sprinklers.
• Replace bushes with cacti, succulents, and other native plants that need less water.
• Improve curb appeal with creative desert landscape designs.

Local water agencies may also provide smart landscaping rebates and benefits to help cover the cost of converting your yard. You will likely also save money on regular maintenance and upkeep with eco-friendly landscaping.

7. Update Your Rental Property’s Lighting

Older lighting fixtures and light bulbs can use up a lot of energy. In fact, lighting generally takes up about 15% of all electricity consumption in the average home. An easy and affordable way to make your rental property more eco-friendly is to install energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs.

LED bulbs can save hundreds of dollars per year and help your tenants reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, installing dimmers and timers on light fixtures can improve energy usage as well.

8. Look into Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

It is clear to see that electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular. Numbers show that registered electric vehicles in the United States have increased by 250% in the last five years. With more than 1.7 million electric vehicles in operation, offering an electrical charging station at your rental property may be a smart move.

However, home EV charging stations can run from a few hundred dollars to several thousands of dollars. Although it is a bigger investment compared to other eco-friendly changes, it can help attract potential tenants who drive an EV and value an eco-friendly lifestyle.

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9. Provide Your Tenants with Eco-Friendly Tips

Lastly, your tenants may appreciate helpful energy-saving tips that keep them on track. Providing your tenants with easy ways to be more eco-friendly will also help lower their utility bills while protecting the environment.

Some tips you may want to share include:

• Use ceiling fans to keep rooms cool in the summer.
• Only run full loads in the dishwasher or washing machine.
• Use cold cycles when possible.
• Set the thermostat to appropriate temperatures when not at home.
• Try to take shorter showers.

Working With a Trusted Las Vegas Property Manager

Managing a rental property on your own can be a lot of work. Keeping up with tenant needs, maintenance, rent collection, and advertising vacancies can take you away from other work, family, and time doing the things you love. However, working with an experienced Henderson and Las Vegas property management company can provide the professional support you need to maximize your time and income.

At Black & Cherry Real Estate, we offer professional property management services to landlords and rental property owners in Las Vegas, Henderson, and throughout Southern Nevada. Contact us today to learn more about our property management team and how we can help you streamline your rental property operations.