Vacation Rental Utilities

[Peter Padalino]

So I have this SFH in AZ that we've been using as a vacation rental...Have had it a couple of years and have been happy with the amount of time we've had it rented. We've even had summer renters, believe it or not.

One issue I've been struggling with is utility costs. In the winter its the gas bill for renters using the heated pool and in the summer its been the electric bill from the AC (just got one yesterday for July - $472!!!). 

The winter renter has been easier to manage so far as its not been a VRBO and we've written into the rental agreement that they'll pay anything above $100. But with the VRBO renters, it doesn't appear that I have that sort of flexibility to write in the utility contingency.

I'm considering putting in a NEST thermostat in the house and a remote pool pump monitor so I can keep an eye on where renters have set the temps?  

Look, I want my renters to enjoy a warm pool in the winter months and stay cool in the summer, but these utility bills are eating away at our income....

Anyone have any ideas about managing this issue more effectively?

Thanks

[Darwin Crawford]

@Peter Padalino - couple suggestions, as I've been in your shoes.  

1) Go crazy on energy efficient items - all LED bulbs, NEST or EcoBee thermostat, etc, etc.  

2) Get someone to quote solar power for the roof if you have APS - I went solar and LOVE IT for rentals.  Let those tenants do what they want, they can't outsmart sunshine in AZ.  Full disclosure, I sell solar as well for a day job.  Just being honest, but the numbers do not lie.  I just did a system for an AirBnb guy in north phoenix.  

3) Check out a solar water heater for the pool - the old ones kinda suck, but there are newer designs that will pump out a lot of heat even in winter, and will shave your gas bill down a lot.