San Diego may be known for its mild year-round climate, but anyone who has stepped outside recently knows that doesn't mean we're immune to serious heat.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the San Diego area, with unusually high temperatures affecting communities throughout the county. For renters and rental property owners, extended periods of hot weather can also put additional strain on homes, air-conditioning systems and electrical systems.
At FPM Group, we manage rental homes throughout North County San Diego, and hot weather often brings an increase in questions about air conditioning, energy use and how to keep rental homes comfortable.
Here are a few things San Diego renters and property owners should keep in mind during periods of extreme heat.
Keep the Heat Out During the Day
One of the simplest ways to keep a home cooler is to prevent heat from entering in the first place.
SDG&E recommends closing blinds and window coverings during the hottest parts of the day. When outdoor temperatures cool in the evening or early morning, opening windows can also help bring cooler air into the home.
Ceiling fans and portable fans can help circulate air as well. Remember that fans cool people rather than rooms, so turning them off when leaving a room can help conserve electricity.
Be Smart About A/C Use
During extreme heat, air-conditioning systems can run for significantly longer periods than usual.
For homes equipped with air conditioning, changing filters regularly and keeping outdoor condenser units clear of debris can help the system operate efficiently. Renters should also notify their property manager if an A/C system begins making unusual noises, stops producing cool air or appears to be malfunctioning.
SDG&E recommends pre-cooling homes earlier in the day and, when health conditions permit, adjusting thermostats to 78°F or higher between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to reduce electricity use during peak periods.
Avoid Adding Unnecessary Heat Inside the Home
Appliances can generate a surprising amount of heat.
During particularly hot afternoons, consider limiting use of ovens, clothes dryers and other heat-producing appliances. SDG&E recommends shifting the use of appliances such as washers, dryers and dishwashers outside the peak period of 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. when possible.
Using a microwave, outdoor grill or preparing meals that require less cooking can also help keep indoor temperatures down.
Property Owners: Extreme Heat Is a Good Reminder to Think About Preventive Maintenance
For rental property owners, periods of extreme weather are a good reminder of the value of preventive maintenance.
HVAC systems that have not been serviced in years are more likely to experience problems when they are running continuously during a heat wave. Having systems inspected and maintained can help identify aging components, clogged filters or other issues before they become emergency repair calls.
It's also worth paying attention to weather stripping, insulation, window coverings and other features that can help improve a home's energy efficiency and comfort.
Preventive maintenance doesn't eliminate every unexpected repair, but it can reduce surprises and help protect the long-term condition of a rental property.
Watch Electricity Use During Heat Waves
Higher temperatures typically mean more air-conditioning and fan use, which can translate into higher electricity bills.
SDG&E encourages customers to shift energy-intensive activities outside the 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. peak period when possible. Residents can also take advantage of San Diego County's network of Cool Zones, which provides free air-conditioned locations such as libraries and community centers for people looking for relief from extreme heat.
Communication Between Renters and Property Managers Matters
Extreme weather can expose problems that aren't noticeable under normal conditions.
If you're renting a home and notice an electrical issue, an A/C malfunction, leaking equipment or another maintenance concern, report it to your property manager promptly rather than waiting for the problem to become more serious.
For rental property owners, having a responsive property management team and a reliable network of local vendors becomes particularly valuable during periods when HVAC technicians, electricians and other contractors are receiving a high volume of service calls.
Managing Rental Property in North County San Diego
Owning rental property shouldn't mean personally handling every maintenance request, vendor call or tenant concern—especially when unexpected issues arise.
FPM Group provides full-service residential property management throughout North County San Diego, helping owners with leasing, tenant communication, maintenance coordination, inspections, rent collection and the day-to-day responsibilities that come with owning rental property.
If you own a rental property in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos or the surrounding North County communities and would like to learn more about professional property management, we'd be happy to speak with you.
