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Mini-Splits vs. Central Air Conditioner: What is the right one for you?

Dustin Edwards • September 7, 2023

Southern California has some of the most ideal weather in the entire country. However, there are days when it becomes uncomfortably hot. For this reason, most rentals are equipped with some form of climate control. While some landlords opt to provide a window unit, these could be more efficient at cooling the whole rental. Ideally, a landlord should provide tenants with a proper core system for their cooling needs. 


Many tenants dealing with southern California’s heat prefer something more efficient. Two forms of cooling include the use of a Mini-split unit or Central Cooling.


In today’s article, we will go over the benefits of each and help you understand the better cooling solution for your rental property.


Mini-Split Unit

Mini-splits are also called ductless heating. It's a climate control system that doesn't require ducts and vents to be installed throughout the home. The system is split into two parts: the compressing unit, installed outdoors, and a separate indoor unit where the cold air comes out, hence the moniker of a “mini-split.”


Because a mini-split does not require ducts, they tend to be more efficient as there is no heat transferring through ductwork compared to a traditional central air conditioning system. Another benefit of a mini-split unit is its all-in-one system, allowing it to be incredibly versatile.


One of the disadvantages of a mini-split system is the initial cost can be higher than that of central cooling. This may sound counterintuitive because a mini-split unit is smaller and more efficient. However, if a home already has ducting work done, a mini-split will frequently cost more to install. A mini-split can also be a bit of an eyesore to some. The indoor unit is usually bulky and installed in awkward areas that can bother some tenants, as well as the lines required to connect the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. Sometimes, the lines are installed in areas that aren’t aesthetically pleasing, like a prominent side of the home or on the rooftop.


Central Air Conditioning

Central A/C is a system in which atmospheric air is cooled in a central location and distributed through the home via air ducts and vents. Central A/C has an outdoor unit like a mini-split, meaning it’s as quiet as a mini-split.


It's a common misconception that replacing a central A/C unit with a mini-split is cheaper. This isn’t true. The most significant expense for central A/C is the labor involved with installing said ducts. If the home already has the duct work complete, it's unlikely to be cost-effective to switch.


The air ducts may lose cooling efficiency due to heat transfer in the home. Nevertheless, those ducts also provide several benefits. Options for filtration with central A/C are far more resilient and efficient when compared to mini-splits. Because of this, some tenants consider central A/C preferable, especially those who worry about air quality.


Unfortunately, there are more long-term expenses for central A/C, such as an increased electrical bill and duct
maintenance. Maintenance should be done regularly to the ductwork, as major repairs can come with a significant price tag. If this becomes the case, consider switching to a mini-split system altogether.


Both central A/C and mini-split have many similarities and are often interchangeable when tenants seek a comfortable rental. Ultimately, your solution will vary based on how your rental is designed and built. If you are interested in installing a central A/C or mini-split system or are unsure if it’s worth switching from one to the other, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or fill out our
Owner Application online.

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By Dustin Edwards December 19, 2024
If you're properties are suffering from lack of heating this winter, these 3 common issues could be the cause.
By Dustin Edwards December 12, 2024
Although Southern California’s winters are typically mild when compared to other parts of the country, tenants still value a warm home during the cooler months. Taking steps to maintain a comfortable living environment shows your tenants that their needs are being prioritized. This is crucial for tenant satisfaction, especially during the holidays. Below are three methods to help keep tenants warm during the winter season. Maintain Heating System It's required for landlords to provide rentals with a working heating system, however, it's not uncommon for these to fall into disrepair either because of lack of maintenance or negligence. Scheduling regular inspections and maintenance before the coldest weather can help to ensure the heating is reliable and efficient. Cleaning air filters, and checking for cold spots, or irregular noises can help prevent small issues from escalating into expensive repairs. Preventative maintenance can help to reduce the chances of inconvenient calls for emergency repairs. Being proactive with your maintenance can also help you protect your investment while earning goodwill from your tenant. Another factor that can affect your heating system is drafts around windows and doors. These drafts can cause your heating system to overwork which makes the system less efficient, and reliable and ultimately reduces the lifespan of your heating system. You can address this by inspecting the seals around doors and windows for gaps or cold spots. Replace worn-out seals and caulking where it's needed. Offer Smart Thermostats Consider providing your tenants with a smart thermostat for energy-efficient heating. This can not only give tenants control over their comfort, but it's also a great tool to reduce energy usage. By providing this upgrade to your tenant, you show a commitment to your tenant’s satisfaction which can in turn result in a long-term tenant. These kinds of devices definitely benefit your tenants, though they can also contribute to the longevity of your rental property as well. Additionally, you can give your tenant a smart thermostat as a holiday gift . This can show your tenant that you’re not simply collecting rent while protecting your investment. Reverse Ceiling Fans The direction in which a ceiling fan rotates is oftentimes overlooked, and it can have a great effect on the temperature of a home. A ceiling fan is typically seen as a way to cool down a home during the hotter seasons without using the air conditioning . Reversing the spin of a ceiling fan can help to circulate warm air more efficiently during the cold season . This is because warm air rises, and a fan rotating clockwise will push the warm air back down helping maintain warm temperatures. Most fans have a switch on the motor and it is easily accessible for most people with a step ladder. This easy adjustment helps reduce the need for your tenant to use the heating system. Tenants will notice a more consistent and comfortable temperature indoors. This should also help reduce costs on their energy bill. Reversing the rotation of the ceiling fans also takes some of the strain off of the heating system. This helps to ensure it operates efficiently for years by reducing the wear and tear on it. Taking proactive steps this winter season to ensure your tenant’s comfort demonstrates a landlord’s commitment to their tenant’s comfort. A comfortable tenant is a satisfied tenant , which can lead to a long-term tenant and steady rental income. Consider it a small investment for long-term success. If you need help keeping your rental warm or managing Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our Owner Application online .
By Dustin Edwards December 5, 2024
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