As temperatures rise and the vacation season reaches its peak, short-term rental property managers face new challenges, especially when it comes to managing energy use efficiently. With more bookings and higher occupancy, energy consumption can soar, impacting both operational costs and environmental sustainability.
Here’s how smart energy management strategies like smart thermostats, predictive maintenance, and automated sensors can help short-term rental property management businesses thrive this summer.
Why Energy Management Is Critical for Short-Term Rental Property Management
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are among the biggest energy drains in rental properties. For short-term rental property management operators, inefficient HVAC performance can quickly drive up bills and reduce profits during the busiest time of the year.
By investing in smart HVAC technology, property managers gain real-time insights into system performance, optimize energy use, and ensure guest comfort. Predictive maintenance built into smart systems allows property managers to fix small issues before they become costly problems — a major win for both budgets and guest satisfaction.
Smart Thermostats: Boosting Efficiency and Guest Comfort
Smart thermostats have become an essential tool for effective short-term rental property management. They allow managers to monitor and control property temperatures remotely, minimizing waste when properties are vacant and preparing homes for guest arrivals.
Integrated with property management systems (PMS), smart thermostats can automatically adjust based on booking schedules, ensuring optimal energy use without manual input. These intuitive devices provide both cost savings and a smoother, more comfortable guest experience.
Door and Window Sensors: A Smarter Way to Manage Energy
Small leaks add up to big waste. That’s why door and window sensors are a smart addition for anyone involved in short-term rental property management. These devices pause HVAC systems automatically if a door or window is left open, preventing cooling costs from skyrocketing.
Adding smart sensors creates an interconnected system that maximizes efficiency without compromising the guest experience, a key objective for any short-term rental property management team. These sensors also enhance vacation rental protection by providing an added layer of security that helps guests feel safe and cared for.
“We installed the thermostats and door sensors that turn off the AC when doors are open in 35 of 50 units in this concrete condo building in the humid climate of Coastal Alabama, and within a month the humidity level all over the building decreased noticeably. Our maintenance department reported fewer issues with moisture throughout the building as a result of a more constant temperature in the majority of units. This was an unintended perk, and we are very pleased both with the reliability of these units as well as the ease of keeping all of the units at a constant temperature when not in use.” Tim Mahn, Beachfront Rentals and Sales
Smart Energy Management: A Competitive Advantage for STR Operators
In today’s market, smart energy management isn’t just an operational improvement, it’s a competitive advantage. Eco-conscious travelers increasingly favor properties that align with sustainable practices, and efficient smart technology plays a major role in those decisions.
By leveraging smart HVAC systems, smart thermostats, and automated sensors, short-term rental property management professionals can reduce operating costs, improve guest satisfaction, extend equipment lifespan, and enhance their brand reputation for sustainability.
Want to find out more on short-term rental technology? Read Angel Piontek’s article for VRMA Arrival on the future of smart property automation (pages 34 – 37).
