The Gainesville City Commission recently passed new regulations designed to improve rental properties’ safety and energy efficiency. While the list in its entirety may seem burdensome, these changes will ultimately help the renter stay comfortable at home while giving the rental property owner peace of mind. And, if you spread these upgrades out over time, you can easily ensure you comply by the soonest effective date of October 2021. Find out what rental property owners need to upgrade and how Comfort Temp makes it easier – and more affordable – for you to be in accordance with the new rules.
Of the new regulations, 4 specifically have to do with your HVAC unit. The first 3 upgrades regarding duct sealing and insulating, HVAC maintenance, and small space cooling units must be completed by the time the regulations go into effect on October 1, 2021. The law regarding the programmable thermostat must be met by October 1, 2026.
Duct Sealing and Insulating
The new regulations require that homeowners seal any visible duct joints with either mastic or mastic and fiberglass mesh tape, as well as pressure-sensitive foil tape (UL181AP) or heat-sensitive foil tale (UL181AP). Further, the city commissioners ruled that all ducts must be insulated using commercial materials rated R-6 or higher.
Improperly sealed or insulated ductwork costs your home air volume and quality while also contributing to higher energy costs. More than that, having ducts in disrepair now means a violation of city laws. Duct sealing offers enhanced energy efficiency, more easily regulated and sustained indoor temperatures, higher air quality, improved safety, and less strain on your home’s HVAC unit. Similarly, duct insulation helps prevent leaked air, energy wastage, temperature fluctuations, and condensation buildup.
HVAC Maintenance
If you are out of date for your rental property’s HVAC maintenance, you can no longer wait. The city commission’s new regulations require proof that your rental property HVAC unit has had service maintenance performed by a licensed HVAC or mechanical contractor within the previous 24 months. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain these records. The regulation also explicitly states that the home’s HVAC unit must be fitted with an appropriate filter.
Small Space Cooling Units
If your rental property has small space ACs, these must be in good operating order, secured, and sealed with an appropriate filter. The Comfort Temp team is experts at servicing any size unit, and we can inspect and maintain your wall, window, or small room unit as well as we can whole-home units.
Programmable Thermostat
The last new regulation involving your rental property’s HVAC is the requirement to install a programmable thermostat. You have a little more time to accomplish this one, but as with the rest on the list, doing it sooner than later will take the worry out of these upgrades. To ensure you have the programmable thermostat that best meets the needs of your rental home, rely on the technicians at Comfort Temp.
Comfort Temp Keeps You Comfortable and Compliant
These required upgrades are best done by a professional, knowledgeable HVAC contractor who can access the necessary materials to comply with the regulations. Starting now and spreading the upgrades over time helps you save money while working toward total compliance. Let Comfort Temp help you get on a regular maintenance schedule now to take the worry out of scrambling to get an appointment closer to the regulation effective dates. No matter what your HVAC needs, Comfort Temp is committed to your comfort – at all of your properties.
