Blog Post

Mini-Splits vs Window Units. Which is Right for You?

Dustin Edwards • Apr 03, 2024

A satisfied tenant is often a great asset to any portfolio. A happy tenant is a long-term tenant. Making sure your tenant is comfortable during the upcoming summer heat is important to keeping them happy. Today, we’ll go over the differences between mini-split and window air conditioning units so you can make the right choice for yourself and your tenant.


Upfront Cost

The upfront cost is the first difference between a window unit a/c and a mini-split system. A window unit generally costs between $200 for entry-level units and over $600 for higher-end units, including heaters. Window units are designed to sit in an open window. They tend to have fins to prevent the cold air from escaping through gaps, and occasionally, they may require some support. This makes the installation affordable and accessible and affordable for most do-it-yourself owners.


A mini-split system, on the other hand, will start at about $1000 and go up in price based on brand, power, and the amount of zones it controls. Unlike a window unit, mini-split systems aren’t nearly as DIY-friendly, meaning you'll likely need to
hire a handyman or a professional. Installation of a mini-split system is an additional cost you’ll have to consider. On average, installing a mini-split system can cost $1,000 up to over $10,000, depending on the range of sizes, efficiency rating, and brands.


Long-Term Use

The differences become significant. While the upfront cost of a mini-split system is higher, its lifespan is usually 20 years compared to a window unit’s lifespan of 10 years. At that time, running a mini-split system cost less as it was more efficient than a window unit. It's been stated that a mini-split can lower the electric bill by 40% compared to a window unit. 


Another aspect many should consider is the aesthetic and noise levels. A mini-split system is broken down into two parts: a condenser that can be installed somewhere hidden and an air handler that, when installed correctly, can blend into the walls of a room. Since the condenser is outdoors, there is little noise from the air handler inside. A window unit is all in one, meaning your tenant would not only have to sacrifice a window for it, but it is also quite loud and unattractive.


Maintenance

Much like the upfront cost, there is a significant difference between a window unit a/c and a mini-split. The maintenance for a window unit a/c includes cleaning and replacing the air filter every one to three months to ensure its efficiency. As well as filling in any gaps that may have opened up after installation. Since the coils sit outside the window, you may need to inspect and clean the outside, as dirt or debris may collect on the unit. Finally, most window unit a/c systems should not be installed year-round. They should be taken out of the window and stored correctly to safeguard it from damage when not in use.


Much like with window units, the main maintenance concern for mini-split systems is keeping them clean and minimizing obstructions. This means you should avoid having shelves or other furniture in the way of a mini-split air handler. For mini-split systems, the condenser is installed outdoors, and it also needs to be cleaned regularly every six weeks unless it was installed in a location that doesn't get too dirty.


The summer can bring with it incredibly beautiful yet hot days. If you want to ensure a long-term tenant, providing some form of cooling is a good idea. If you’re unsure what cooling system you should install or need help managing your Beach City rental property, 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 01 May, 2024
Everyone wants to feel safe in their homes. As an investment property owner, it's up to you to decide whether or not to include security measures in your property. Many of the costs associated with the security measures can be included in the rent, meaning not only can you keep your property safe, but you can earn more income in the long run. However, you would still want your tenants to have renters insurance to protect their assets. Today, we’ll discuss the top five security measures you can add to your property and why they're beneficial to you and your tenant. Security Cameras Cameras are probably one of the first security measures people think about when asked about security. Cameras provide more benefits than just surveillance. They provide an extra level of security for the safety of the tenants and their belongings. Additionally, security cameras can be useful when repairs are required. Cameras can aid in supervising repairs and maintenance to ensure you’re receiving the agreed-upon work. During vacancies when the property is empty, security cameras can help keep the property safe from potential intruders. Doorbell cameras are incredibly popular now. They provide the aforementioned safety of a camera that can be accessed remotely, as well as the ability to communicate with visitors. Although one must be careful never to say you're not home, just say you're unavailable to strangers. Security Lights Security lights with motion detectors are another effective tool when adding security measures to your property. These lights brightly if a potential intruder attempts to get near your home. They can provide enough illumination to see the intruder or, at the very least, scare them off. Nowadays, you can find a combination of security cameras and motion-activated security lights, such as the floodlight cam wired plus from Ring . Additionally, because these lights only turn on when motion is detected, they’re more cost-effective than traditional lights with a switch. Illuminate the Property Light generally deters intruders as it's more difficult to hide. Adding lighting to the landscaping can increase the security of the property while creating a relaxing atmosphere. Lights can also be used in other areas of the property to accent features such as trees, benches, or artwork. This can help your property stand out while giving your tenants an additional feeling of safety. Keyless Entry Keyless entry is seen as both a convenience feature and a security feature. They usually use an electronic passcode, biometric data, or grant access through a smartphone app. Physical keys can be lost, stolen, or duplicated. You reduce the risk of unauthorized entry by eliminating the need for a physical key to enter the property. Many keyless entry systems include several features, such as remote locking and monitoring. Although keyless entry is a great new technology for keeping your tenants and properties safe, they’re best used with other security systems. Security Company Nothing beats having an extra pair of eyes on your property for security. This is where security companies like ADT and SimpliSafe come in. While companies may deal with security in varying ways, they aim to protect your investment. While safety is the primary role of a security company, remember that many tenants may be willing to pay more for a premium amenity like a home security company. Keeping your property and tenants safe is incredibly important to the longevity of an investment property. If you’re looking to improve the security of your Long Beach rental property or need help managing your beach city rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or fill out our Owner Application online .
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