Clean and dirty air filters

Furnace filters maintain air quality in rental properties. They trap dust, pollen, hair, dander, and other airborne particles. Over time, these filters fill up with detritus, becoming less effective in capturing contaminants and eventually restraining airflow. DenCO Property Management and Sales states in their lease agreement that the responsibility for changing the air filter is the tenants’. The renters should check their filters monthly to avoid any problems. Changing air filters contributes to a more comfortable living space in the following ways.

Improve Air Quality – Changing the air filters in rental homes ensures that the air circulating throughout the living space is clean, promoting better indoor air quality.

Better Energy Efficiency – Clogged air filters make heating systems work harder to reach and maintain the desired temperature. The decreased energy efficiency leads to higher utility bills for tenants. The extra stress also leads to premature wear and tear. Clean air filters allow the HVAC systems to operate at the manufacturer’s specifications, saving renters money. They also prolong the heating system’s lifespan, avoiding costly repairs and replacement.

Avoid Health Problems – It is a must that tenants with allergies and asthma regularly change the furnace air filters. Clean air filters reduce the risk of breathing in harmful pollutants detrimental to their health.

Maintaining Good Landlord-Tenant Relationships – Tenants who regularly change their air filters demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the rental property and fostering a positive relationship with their landlord. DenCO conducts two inspections per year. During the winter inspection, property managers should bring extra air filters that match the furnace of each rental. Tenants get busy, so it is best to make it easy to maintain their furnace. If the filters are not changed, the property manager needs to send a letter to the renter reminding them about their responsibility to care for their heating system.

Why Is My Furnace Filter So Dirty

Furnace air filters are not created equal. Some filters last 30 days, while others have 90-day ratings. The property manager should leave filters next to the heating system with the correct specification and size so the tenant knows what to buy if they need extras to get them through the winter.

Cheap Filters – Cheap filters get dirty fast and need changing more often. If it gets cold or the tenants keep their homes warmer than usual, they should consider higher-quality filters that last longer.

Colder Than Usual – The chiller it gets means tenant run their heating systems more, causing their air filters to fill up with dirt and debris faster. That is why renters must check heating system filters every month during the winter.

Furnace Fan Set to “On” – Some tenants make the mistake of setting their thermostat to “on” rather than “auto.” Since the furnace runs, the filters collect contaminants 24 hours daily, clogging up fast. Landlords should instruct their tenants to use the auto feature of the thermostat so heat is delivered when needed.

Dirty Return Vents Areas – Return vents next to a recent construction or repair project suck up dirt fast. Property managers should clean up construction areas near the heating system to avoid this problem. Tenants should continue keeping these areas clean.

Home Air With Many Contaminants – Rental properties with pets or many tenants naturally have more airborne contaminants. Pet dander builds up, and more people kick up more dust, meaning air filters need to be changed more often.

DenCO is here for owners when they decide to put their investments under expert management. DenCO manages over 150 homes, duplexes, and apartment rentals in the DU, Washington Park, and other Denver neighborhoods and has been in business since 1990. Call us at 303-722-9688  or click here to complete a Contact Us form.