7 HVAC Issues to Look Out for in Your College Student’s Apartment
As a parent, you want your college student to be safe and comfortable in their apartment. But when it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), there are a few things you should be on the lookout for. If your college student is renting an apartment, there are a few HVAC-related issues you should be on the lookout for. These issues can range from simple and easily fixable problems to more serious ones that could result in health hazards or expensive repairs.
Here are 7 HVAC issues to watch for in your college student’s apartment:
1. Poorly Insulated Windows
This is one of the most common HVAC problems in apartments. A poorly insulated window can let in drafts, making the apartment colder in the winter and hotter in the summer. This can be a problem if the landlord isn’t willing to make any changes or if your child’s bedroom is near the windows. If the apartment is not well insulated, keeping the temperature stable inside will be tough, resulting in higher energy bills and uncomfortable conditions for your child.
2. Lack of Air Conditioning
Clogged air filters can restrict airflow and lead to a buildup of dust and other allergens in the home. This can be a problem in hot weather, especially if your child has asthma or another respiratory condition. It’s essential to ensure that the apartment has air conditioning and is in good working order. It’s also necessary to make sure that the filters are changed regularly.
3. Hot Water Issues
If an apartment doesn’t have enough hot water, or if the hot water takes a long time to come out of the tap, it can be a genuine inconvenience. This is especially true in the winter when you need to take a hot shower to warm up.
4. Faulty Thermostat
If an apartment’s thermostat isn’t working correctly, it can be challenging to control the temperature. This can be a problem in winter and summer, depending on what temperature you need to maintain. A system needing repair can cause all sorts of issues, including making the apartment too hot or too cold, increasing utility bills, and making breathing harder for people with allergies or asthma.
5. Inadequate Ventilation
Inadequate ventilation can cause various problems, including stuffiness, increased risk of mold growth, allergies, and even respiratory illnesses. Ensure the apartment has proper ventilation, such as an exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathroom.
6. High Humidity
This can be a problem year-round, leading to mold growth and an increased risk of dust mites. Be sure to ask about the humidity level in the apartment and whether there is a dehumidifier available and in good condition. A noisy dehumidifier can be distracting and make it difficult to concentrate or sleep. The noise may be a sign that the system is not working correctly.
7. Old, Outdated HVAC System
An old, outdated HVAC system may not be able to keep up with the demands of a modern student’s lifestyle. An old heating system may not be as efficient as a newer one, meaning higher energy bills for your child. It may not be able to heat or cool the apartment properly, leading to discomfort. It’s also more likely to break down, so ensure it’s in good working order before your child moves in.
Final Thoughts
If you notice any of these issues in your college student’s apartment, be sure to contact the landlord or property manager so they can address the problem. Most landlords are happy to address these concerns and ensure their tenants are comfortable in their apartments. Some of these issues, like lack of insulation or poor sealing, may be easy and inexpensive to fix. Others, like a faulty thermostat or an old HVAC system, may require more significant repairs that may need professional assistance. In either case, it’s essential to address the issue so your child can have a comfortable, safe place to live while they’re away at school.
If you’re a college student experiencing any of the seven HVAC issues outlined in this post, don’t hesitate to contact Coastal Mechanical Contractors. We have years of experience helping students resolve these problems and would be happy to help you get your apartment back to a comfortable temperature. Don’t suffer through another chilly winter or hot summer – call us today!