Maintenance – Smart Apartment Solutions

RPM Careers Week 2024: Celebrating the Heart of Our Industry with Exciting New Challenges

Smart Chick Megan — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 14:44:55 +0000

The residential property management (RPM) industry is gearing up for an even bigger and better NAA RPM Careers Week in 2024, taking place from April 15th to 19th. This annual event, organized by the National Apartment Association (NAA), is back with a jam-packed schedule of fun challenges, prizes, and opportunities for RPM professionals to celebrate one another.

In addition to the beloved traditions of the week, NAA has introduced two brand-new categories for 2024 – Supplier Collaborators and Leadership/Support Services. These new additions recognize the incredible breadth of talent and expertise that contributes to the success of our dynamic industry.

So, what can you expect from RPM Careers Week 2024?

Let’s dive into the details:

The Challenges & Prizes

Why I Love My RPM Career – Monday, April 15
Take a selfie or create a video at your property that shows how much you love your RPM career. Tell us about how you came to the residential property management industry and why it works for you. Submit your content (photo/video and caption) for a chance to win up to 6 CECs on Visto and a $50 gift card.

Here is the CANVA template

Maintenance/Service Professionals – Tuesday, April 16
Showcase your hardworking maintenance and service professionals by taking a photo or making a video of them in action on the job. Submit your content (photo/video) with a caption explaining why they’re a valuable member of your team. The nominator will receive a $25 gift card, and the nominee will receive a $200 gift card.

Apartment Onsite Teams Day – Wednesday, April 17
Sponsored by Chadwell Supplies, this challenge celebrates the superstars of your onsite team. Take a photo or create a video of your team being awesome on the job, and write a 250-character caption about what they mean to you and your property. The winning team will receive a $350 gift card for a team activity.

NEW! Super Supplier Collaborator – Thursday, April 18
Sponsored by the National Supplier Council this brand-new category recognizes the incredible supplier partners who make our jobs easier every day. Take a photo or create a video of your favorite supplier collaborator (individual point of contact), and tell us how they help your property and team. The nominator will receive a $25 gift card, and the nominee will receive a $200 gift card.

NEW! Leadership/Support Services – Friday, April 19
For the final day of RPM Careers Week, showcase your leadership and support services teams or professionals. Take a photo or create a video about how they nurture your talents, build up their teams, and serve your staff and community. The winner will receive up to $200 off a CAPS or CAM certification or $200 worth of CECs on Visto.

How to Enter

From April 15-19, submit your photo/video and caption for the challenges on the RPM Careers Week website. Then, from April 29 to May 6, follow the RPM Careers Facebook and Instagram pages and vote for your favorite entries by liking them. The photo/video with the most likes for each challenge day will be crowned the winner on May 13.

Winners will have 60 days to claim their prizes, and if the original winner does not claim their prize, the runner-up will be announced on the RPM Careers website for one calendar year.

This year’s RPM Careers Week is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting celebration yet. Join us in honoring the heart and soul of our industry – the incredible RPM professionals who make our communities thrive every single day. Get ready to showcase your passion, recognize your invaluable team members, and have some fun along the way!

Submit your entries here!

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Mastering Emergency Preparedness: A Comprehensive Guide for Property Managers with Essential Tools and Apps for Success

Smart Chick Megan — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 20:47:52 +0000

In any emergency situation, having a solid emergency preparedness plan is crucial. As a property manager, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your building is as safe as possible for all of your tenants, and that means creating and continually improving upon an emergency preparedness plan. A good emergency preparedness plan should cover a wide range of potential emergencies, from natural disasters to fires to medical emergencies. It should also include evacuation routes, emergency contact information, and clear instructions for what to do in the event of an emergency.
Tailoring the Plan to Your Building and Its Occupants:

One of the most important things to keep in mind when creating or improving your emergency preparedness plan is that it should be tailored specifically to your building and its occupants. Different buildings and different communities will have different needs and priorities, and it’s important to take those into account when developing your plan. For example, if you have a large number of elderly residents in your building, you may need to have a specific plan in place for evacuating them in the event of an emergency.

Key Factors to Consider:
Here are some other key factors to consider when creating or improving your emergency preparedness plan:

1. Conduct a Risk Assessment:
Before you can create an effective emergency preparedness plan, you need to understand what the potential risks are for your building and its occupants. This might involve conducting a thorough risk assessment that takes into account everything from the building’s location to the types of hazards that are most likely to occur in your area.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan:
Your emergency preparedness plan should include clear and detailed evacuation routes for all occupants of the building. Make sure that these routes are well marked and that everyone in the building knows where to go in the event of an emergency.

3. Establish Communication Protocols:
In an emergency situation, communication is key. Make sure that you have clear communication protocols in place for alerting residents to an emergency, notifying emergency services, and keeping everyone informed throughout the emergency.

4. Train Your Staff and Residents:
Once you have an emergency preparedness plan in place, it’s important to make sure that everyone in the building knows what to do in the event of an emergency. This might involve providing training sessions for your staff and residents, or distributing informational materials that outline the emergency procedures.

Continuous Improvement:
By taking these steps and continuously improving your emergency preparedness plan, you can help ensure that your building and its occupants are as safe as possible in the event of an emergency. Remember, emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s important to be prepared!

Tools for Emergency Preparedness Success: Crisis Communication Apps:
To enhance the effectiveness of your emergency preparedness plan, consider leveraging crisis communication apps. Here are a few examples:

1. Everbridge:
– Everbridge is a comprehensive critical communication and enterprise safety platform. It enables organizations to send alerts, notifications, and updates to employees during emergencies.
– Website: [Everbridge](https://www.everbridge.com/)

2. AlertMedia:
– AlertMedia provides a cloud-based platform for emergency communication, allowing organizations to send notifications via various channels, including text, voice, and email.
– Website: [AlertMedia](https://www.alertmedia.com/)

3. OnSolve (CodeRED):
– OnSolve offers the CodeRED emergency notification system, allowing organizations to send alerts to employees and residents through multiple communication channels.
– Website: [OnSolve](https://www.onsolve.com/)

4. Regroup Mass Notification:
– Regroup Mass Notification is a platform that enables organizations to send alerts and messages to employees through various communication channels, including SMS, email, and voice.
– Website: [Regroup Mass Notification](https://www.regroup.com/)

5. Rave Mobile Safety:
– Rave Mobile Safety provides solutions for emergency notification and communication. It includes features such as geo-targeting for location-based alerts.
– Website: [Rave Mobile Safety](https://www.ravemobilesafety.com/)

6. CrisisGo:
– CrisisGo is a safety communication platform designed for schools, businesses, and organizations. It facilitates real-time communication during emergencies and drills.
– Website: [CrisisGo](https://www.crisisgo.com/)

Additional Resource: SDS Manager for Chemical Emergency Preparedness:

In addition to communication apps, another valuable tool for emergency preparedness is the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Manager. An SDS is a comprehensive document providing information about chemical products. In emergencies, quick access to chemical data is vital. SDS Manager offers a FREE database to swiftly search thousands of common chemicals, allowing you to access data sheets in seconds from any device with an internet connection: [SDS Manager](https://adsmanager.com/us/search/).
By integrating crisis communication apps and utilizing resources like SDS Manager, you enhance the preparedness of your property and occupants for potential emergencies. Continuous improvement, tailored planning, and the right tools contribute to a comprehensive and effective emergency preparedness strategy. Remember, staying prepared is the key to mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of your building and its residents.

Looking for a place to start?

Here is a google doc with a basic Emergency Plan to help you get started!

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Hurt People Hurt People: Embracing Empathy and Compassion For Those Hurting Out Loud

Smart Chick Megan — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 17:07:55 +0000

In our rental property management industry, the survival guide to dealing with difficult people lies in understanding that “hurt people hurt people.” In our Survival BootCamp workshop, we cover the art of handling challenging individuals, and this article serves as a deep dive into this concept.

Understanding the Core of Hurt:
Throughout my 27-year career, I’ve encountered numerous instances of working with upset residents in our apartment communities. More often than not, our team had no direct involvement in the underlying causes of their distress. Yet, as I interacted with these individuals and witnessed their lives unfold within our community, I began to gain insight into their behavior. Almost without exception, I discovered that these difficult people were grappling with their own forms of pain. Whether they had experienced the loss of a loved one or were undergoing significant life changes, often faster than they could handle, their actions were a reflection of their internal turmoil.

A Personal Encounter:
One memorable encounter stands out as a testament to this principle. A prospect stormed into our leasing center, demanding to see a two-bedroom apartment. Despite my best efforts to engage him, it seemed like every step I took further aggravated him. He was impatient and disinterested in learning about our community. As we reached the apartment model, he abruptly rushed inside, leaving me feeling defeated. However, despite my doubts, I still mustered the courage to ask for the sale. To my surprise, he agreed and eventually became a valued resident.

A Transformative Journey:
In the months that followed, this resident’s attitude underwent a remarkable transformation. It turns out that he was enduring a tumultuous period in his life, including a divorce and other distressing circumstances. He was “hurting out loud,” and his challenging demeanor was merely a defense mechanism. When I asked him why he chose our community, he revealed that we were the only place that treated him with respect and offered him the opportunity to lease. This act of kindness made a profound impact on his life, reassuring him that he would be okay.

The Power of Empathy:
Practicing empathetic listening, as Stephen R. Covey advises, is the key to uncovering the pain beneath difficult exteriors. Rather than responding with aggression, showing compassion and empathy can often lead to a positive outcome. I often reflect on this resident’s story when faced with irate individuals, reminding myself that they may be hurting as well. Being kind, listening, or offering a smile can have a lasting impact, potentially even saving a life. Check out our previous article about Empathetic Listening.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA):
In addition to empathy, we can equip ourselves with tools like Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). MHFA, recognized by the U.S. Senate, teaches individuals to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Just as CPR helps in emergencies, MHFA equips us to address mental health challenges. The National Apartment Association has trained numerous instructors to administer the MHFA course, ensuring more individuals in our industry are prepared to recognize and support those in need.

In our ever-changing industry, being prepared to handle challenging situations is not just good business; it’s excellent customer service.

By practicing empathetic listening and enhancing our skills through education like MHFA, we can navigate difficult interactions while showing compassion for those who may be struggling. Ultimately, understanding the principle that “hurt people hurt people” allows us to be agents of change and support for those who need it most.

For more information about MHFA and how you can find an instructor in your area here:https://www.naahq.org/mhfa

Here is Smart’s adaptation of the “ALGEE” MHFA Action Plan

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Cultivating Effective Interactions: Harnessing Body Language and Positioning

Smart Chick Megan — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 19:36:27 +0000

In our Survival Boot Camp workshop, we delve into the art of dealing with difficult people, with a particular emphasis on empathetic listening. However, what about body language and positioning? Can they offer solutions to handling tricky situations, such as addressing an irate resident? The answer is a resounding yes, and here’s how.

My personal journey into mastering this skill began during my tenure at a distressed property in receivership. Receivership is a situation where a bank holds onto a property until a suitable buyer is found. In our case, this meant grappling with numerous issues and an empty budget for improvements.

Multiple times a day, furious residents stormed into our office, demanding to speak to the manager about the dismal state of their apartments. The usual scenario was a resident angrily shouting at our manager, who responded in kind. The tension escalated, and the result was a battle of decibels. Threats of involving the police were thrown around, but every time, the resident left with simmering anger.

It became evident that confronting aggression with aggression only fueled the fire, leading to heightened frustration and no resolution. This cycle repeated itself until the day our assistant manager stepped in, seemingly like a calming presence from a fairytale.

Our assistant manager had a unique approach: she greeted the irrate residents with politeness and a calm demeanor. She politely invited them into her office, positioned herself next to them (not across a desk), and engaged in a calm conversation. After about five minutes, the residents would leave, their anger dissipated. Intrigued, we questioned our assistant manager about her technique.

She explained, “I didn’t say much; I simply apologized when they were done talking and then clarified the property’s situation.” The transformation in the resident’s demeanor was attributed to this shift in body language and positioning.

By remaining composed and courteous, she compelled the resident to meet her at that level. By listening attentively without formulating immediate responses, she made them feel heard. Sitting next to them conveyed solidarity, as opposed to the traditional barrier created when sitting across from someone. Finally, moving the conversation off the public floor removed any spectators, reminding people of office etiquette, and allowed for a more private, less intimidating atmosphere.
This anecdote underscores the power of reading body language cues and adapting your own body language to defuse a tense situation. It’s a valuable skill that can be instrumental in various contexts, not just property management. Whether you’re in sales or customer service, knowing how to ease someone’s agitation through your body language can be a game-changer.

The ability to handle challenging individuals isn’t solely about what you say but also how you say it and where you say it. By paying attention to body language and positioning, you can make a significant difference in resolving disputes and creating a more harmonious environment. So, let’s harness this skill for effective communication and conflict resolution.

How well can you read people?

Ready to see how? Check out this FREE EQ Quiz from Berkley.

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Survival Boot Camp: Transforming Property Management with Interactive Workshops

Smart Chick Megan — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 16:20:14 +0000

Survival Boot Camp, an interactive workshop created by Smart Apartment Solutions, is revolutionizing property management by offering an engaging and dynamic learning experience for property managers and their teams. This innovative program, developed in partnership with Kathy Banker from Lease UP!!, has been providing property management professionals with essential skills in a fun and interactive manner since its inception in 2009. In this article, we’ll explore how Survival Boot Camp is ideal for property managers and why it’s a game-changer in the industry.

A Fresh Approach to Learning:
Survival Boot Camp was born out of the desire to make training in property management more enjoyable and effective. The founders, including Dawn Ford and Kathy Banker, recognized the need for a training program that could engage property managers across different job positions, including maintenance, leasing, management, owners, and regional managers. To accomplish this, they decided to create reenactments and scenarios, turning seemingly mundane topics into exciting and interactive experiences.

Themes That Engage:
One of the standout features of Survival Boot Camp is its ability to adapt to various themes. The original course follows a tropical theme, akin to the hit TV show “Survivor,” complete with tribal councils, different tribes, music, fires, and inflatable jungle animals. This engaging theme not only captures participants’ attention but also fosters a sense of teamwork and cooperation.

Recently, Survival Boot Camp demonstrated its flexibility by adapting to a Western theme, inspired by the TV show “Yellowstone.” This versatility allows the program to remain relevant and engaging, catering to diverse preferences and conference themes.

Key Elements of Survival Boot Camp:
Survival Boot Camp focuses on four key areas:

1. Time Management: The program addresses the importance of time management and the ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance and big rocks concept. Participants learn these skills through engaging scenarios.

2. Dealing with Difficult People: Survival Boot Camp helps property managers develop skills in empathetic listening, mental health awareness, and first aid training, all of which are essential in the field. Scenarios featuring persistent callers and angry residents provide hands-on experience.

3. Critical Thinking: This section equips participants with critical thinking skills, allowing them to handle complex situations effectively and make sound decisions. Participants apply these skills to scenarios involving early move-ins, cash payments, and regional manager expectations.

4. Disaster Preparedness: In this segment, participants learn vital survival skills, including disaster preparedness and effective team leadership during crises. Scenarios featuring apartment tours with various unexpected issues help property managers understand how to handle emergencies.

Competitive Learning:
One unique aspect of Survival Boot Camp is the competitive element. Teams work together to solve scenarios and present their solutions to a “tribal council” or “livestock commissioners.” Winners of each round are rewarded with highly coveted ranch or jungle animals. This competitive edge adds an extra layer of engagement and motivation.

Positive Feedback and Future Possibilities:
Survival Boot Camp has received rave reviews from participants and facilitators alike. The program’s interactive approach, adaptable themes, and competitive learning style make it a favorite among property management professionals.

Looking to the future, there are discussions about introducing additional versions of the workshop, such as a space-themed or underwater-themed program. This demonstrates the commitment of Smart Apartment Solutions to continuously innovate and provide fresh and engaging learning experiences for property managers.

Survival Boot Camp offers property managers a unique and effective way to develop essential skills while having a great time. With its adaptable themes, competitive learning style, and positive feedback, it has become a must-have training program in the property management industry.

Whether you’re an individual property manager or part of a property management team, Survival Boot Camp is an ideal choice for improving your skills and having fun while doing so. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring this exciting workshop to your team and enhance your property management capabilities.

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The Power of Roadmapping: How Communication Transformed a Hospital Experience

Smart Chick Megan — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 17:30:26 +0000

In the world of customer service, effective communication holds immense power. It can shape the entire experience, leaving a lasting impact on both the service provider and the customer.
Today, we will delve into a remarkable personal story that exemplifies the significance of communication through roadmapping. Join us as we recount the unforgettable experience of our founder, Smart Girl Dawn, during a fateful night at the hospital. Her story vividly demonstrates how roadmapping transformed her hospital journey and underscores its relevance in delivering exceptional customer service.

One Sunday afternoon, Smart Girl Dawn (my mom and founder of Smart) and I, were attending a baby shower when Dawn began to feel strange. Hours later, she found herself being rushed to the emergency room at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor. After nearly 16 hours in the ER, she received varying explanations for her condition, including the possibility of a stroke or her eye socket separating—an array of terrifying scenarios.

Amid the uncertainty and fear that pervaded the hospital room, a distinct memory remains etched in Dawn’s mind. Exhausted, she attempted to rest in her hospital bed, while I dozed off in a chair nearby. It was around 1 PM when the door abruptly swung open, flooding the room with light, and the curtain snapped back. An attendant entered, hastily grabbing Dawn’s arm to test her blood as she is diabetic. The attendant also checked her vitals and chastised her, stating that her distress was harming her health. Abruptly, the attendant finished her tasks, switched off the lights, closed the curtain, and left, leaving a sense of unease in her wake.

Hours later, another attendant awakened us, but this time the approach was starkly different. The attendant quietly knocked on the door, seeking permission to enter. After obtaining consent, she asked if it was alright to turn on the lights, considerate of Dawn’s eyes adjusting. With permission granted, she gently opened the curtain. Speaking in a calm tone, the attendant explained each step of the vital check process, assuring Dawn throughout. Surprisingly, her vitals were in good shape. This moment gave me goosebumps as I realized the transformative power of roadmapping—the act of talking through a process.

Dawn had a stroke in her eye and was given a 6 month recovery to full sight…. she reached full recovery in 90 days. 🙂

The Impact of Roadmapping on Customer Service Dawn’s story serves as a compelling reminder of how roadmapping can shape customer service experiences. By providing a clear roadmap of actions and communicating effectively, service providers can create a stark contrast between good and bad customer service.

Roadmapping involves:
1. Seeking permission: Respectfully asking for consent before proceeding demonstrates empathy and consideration.
2. Step-by-step communication: Articulating each stage of the process keeps customers informed and engaged.
3. Reassurance and empathy: Offering assurance and addressing concerns help build trust and comfort.
4. Understanding the customer’s condition: Assessing and acknowledging the customer’s emotional state allows for tailored interactions.

Dawn’s experience illuminated the potential of roadmapping in customer service. The attendant who took the time to communicate clearly and empathetically made a profound impact, transforming what could have been a distressing encounter into a reassuring and comforting one.

Dawn’s hospital experience vividly showcases the power of roadmapping in customer service interactions. By guiding customers through a process with clear communication, empathy, and reassurance, service providers can transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones. Roadmapping helps build trust, enhance understanding, and create a positive and memorable connection with customers. Let Dawn’s story be a reminder of the profound impact communication can have and inspire us to embrace roadmapping as a tool to deliver exceptional customer service.

Are you looking for a training exercise to help drive home the power of communication, and the impact it has on customer service? Well look no further!

Smart put together one of their favorite exercises that they utilize in the session, It’s A Bird… It’s A Plane… It’s Great Customer Service!

Access The PDF here!

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Unlocking Success: The Significance of Reducing Apartment Turnover and Vacancy Loss

Smart Chick Megan — Tue, 16 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, maximizing profitability is a goal that is consistently pursued by property owners and managers. One crucial aspect of achieving this objective lies in reducing apartment turnover and minimizing vacancy loss.

By focusing on tenant retention and minimizing the time units remain unoccupied, property owners can witness a notable increase in Net Operating Income (NOI) and return on investment (ROI). In this article, we will delve into the importance of reducing turnover and vacancy loss, drawing on historical data and research from SatisFacts, a reputable leader in the field of resident satisfaction research.

Understanding the Impact of Apartment Turnover and Vacancy Loss

Historical Data from SatisFacts Research
SatisFacts Research has conducted extensive studies that shed light on the significance of reducing apartment turnover and vacancy loss. Let’s examine some compelling data points that highlight the financial implications of these factors:

a) Cost of Turnover: According to SatisFacts, the average cost to turn over an apartment unit can range from $3,000 to $5,000. These expenses encompass various aspects such as marketing, advertising, cleaning, maintenance, and administrative tasks associated with the turnover process.

b) Extended Vacancy Periods: On average, vacant units tend to remain unoccupied for 30 to 45 days before new tenants are secured. During this period, property owners bear the burden of utility expenses, property taxes, and other associated costs without generating any rental income.

c) Lost Rental Income: Every day an apartment remains vacant represents a lost opportunity for rental income. This can quickly accumulate, leading to a significant reduction in revenue over time.

Increasing NOI and ROI through Reduced Vacancy Loss

Enhanced Tenant Retention
One of the most effective ways to reduce turnover and vacancy loss is by focusing on tenant retention. By prioritizing resident satisfaction and addressing their concerns promptly, property owners can cultivate a sense of loyalty and encourage tenants to renew their leases. SatisFacts’ research reveals that satisfied residents are significantly more likely to renew their leases, thereby reducing turnover rates.

Strategic Marketing and Advertising
Implementing robust marketing and advertising strategies plays a pivotal role in minimizing vacancy loss. Utilizing targeted digital marketing campaigns, leveraging social media platforms, and establishing partnerships with local businesses can help attract a larger pool of potential tenants, reducing the time it takes to fill vacant units.

Streamlined Turnover Process
Efficiency is key when it comes to reducing vacancy loss. By implementing streamlined turnover processes, property owners can minimize the time between lease terminations and re-occupancy. This includes swift unit inspections, expedited maintenance and repairs, and proactive communication with prospective tenants to ensure a seamless transition.

Offering Incentives and Value-Added Services
To further incentivize lease renewals and attract new tenants, property owners can consider offering value-added services and amenities. This might include enhanced security systems, fitness facilities, pet-friendly accommodations, or access to communal spaces. By providing unique features that cater to the needs and desires of tenants, property owners can differentiate their offerings and increase resident satisfaction.

Reducing apartment turnover and vacancy loss is a critical endeavor that directly impacts the financial success of property owners and managers. By leveraging historical data and research from SatisFacts, we have uncovered the tangible benefits of prioritizing tenant retention and minimizing the time units remain unoccupied.

Through strategies such as enhancing resident satisfaction, strategic marketing, streamlining turnover processes, and offering value-added services, property owners can effectively increase their NOI and ROI. In an industry driven by profitability, reducing turnover and vacancy loss is undeniably an essential step toward unlocking long-term success in the real estate market.

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Does You’re A/C Need Service?

Smart Chick Megan — Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:36:16 +0000

Do you have air conditioning in your home or office, but you’re not sure how to tell when it’s not working the way it should? Is there something wrong with your air conditioner, but you’re not sure if it needs a filter change or something more?

A/C issues?

Air conditioner maintenance is an essential part of keeping your machine running without fail, and can also determine the life of the equipment.

Many homeowners, renters and commercial tenants rely on their air conditioners to keep them safe and comfortable during those hot, humid summer months in Michigan. Without a working AC, you’re taking a potential risk of health concerns like heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

To stop this from happening, check out the warning signs below that mean you need AC service!

Continuous Cycling

An AC that constantly churns and cycles is never a good sign for any homeowner. It means that the machine is working overtime without doing much of anything.

Short-cycling is often a warning that there’s a problem with the thermostat, but it could be more serious such as air leaks letting the cold air escape the system.

Either way, these are issues that a professional AC maintenance company can fix for you right away.

Leaks Water

Leaks are never a good sign, and an air conditioner is no exception to this rule and should be at the top of your air conditioner maintenance checklist.

Leaking indicates that there’s a clog in the drain line or condensation pipes and could cause further damage. If the leaking is bad enough, it could even cause water damage to other parts of your home. Left unattended, this water damage might turn into a mold problem that puts your family in a health-risk situation.

Trying to take your machine apart and fix it by yourself is never a good idea. Instead, call Smart Mechanical Services to ensure that nothing is damaged further!

Blocked Air Flow

Do you have your air conditioner turned on all the time but never notice a dip in temperature? Are there a few rooms that get cooled down but not others?

This indicates that something is blocking the cool air from getting into the home.

Over time, dust and debris build up in your vents, making it more difficult for the air conditioner to push out the cold air it’s producing. This is why some rooms might cool down more than others. Make sure to note down which rooms still get the cool air so that you can tell your local service company where to look within the vents.

Another cause behind poor airflow is the compressor. It might be breaking down and will need a professional to look at it for repairs.

Blows Hot Air

If you notice that your AC is blowing out hot air instead of cold, then it’s time to think about an air conditioner maintenance service. This makes your machine work harder since it’s increasing your home’s temperature but thinks it still needs to cool everything down. It’ll get caught in a constant loop trying to do its job.

This excessive hot air also damages the inner workings of the machine, which results in more significant repairs in the future.

Sometimes it’s as easy as changing the filter or refilling the refrigerant. Other times, it requires an experienced hand to find the underlying problem.

Bad Odors

Is there a bad smell in the air? Have you looked throughout your home but still can’t find the source behind the odor? The chances are good that it’s coming from your air conditioner.

As soon as you notice this problem, it’s important to turn off the air conditioner right away and call for service. Sometimes trapped moisture sits in a machine and starts to mold, which is a health hazard to you and your family.

It could also be due to a dirty filter blowing out contaminated air that smells like dirty socks! Eww!

Increased Energy Costs

Most air conditioner service warning signs are easy to spot if you know what to look for in your home. Sometimes, however, problems occur that don’t have an easy way to notice.

This is when your bills come in handy. If there’s a massive spike in your energy bill, that indicates that there’s something wrong with your air conditioner system.

The cost of running a broken machine over a long time is more than the air conditioner maintenance cost. It’s essential to call for service as soon as you notice the increase in your bills.

Odd Noises

It’s not uncommon for an AC to make a some noises, mainly when it cycles, but it should be silent for the most part. Besides the sound of blowing air, you shouldn’t even notice it running most of the time.

If there’s a loud bang or screeching sound, there’s something wrong with the machine, and it needs service as soon as possible.

Banging indicates that there might be a loose part inside the AC and is moving around, causing damage to other parts of the system. Screeching occurs when there’s a moving part that’s stuck or obstructed and grinds against the obstruction.

If ignored, those noises will create more significant problems in the future that’ll end up costing you even more money. Make sure to call for AC service right away!

Stay Comfortable All Year Long With Routine Air Conditioner Maintenance

With thousands of homes using ACs in America, everyone should know the air conditioner maintenance warning signs.

It keeps people safe and helps to cut down on overall costs.

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