Solution for search results penalizing us for not having/needing AC

[Stephen1864]

Our Airbnb is situated at an altitude of 2,400 feet in the mountains of Puerto Rico. We don't have AC because it's open air and because average temps are quite mild. In addition, during the hotter summer months, it always cools off at night. With ceiling fans, guests have never complained about not having AC. Since the AC when searching for a host is one of the top filters, I feel that we are being penalized simply for not having/needing AC. In other words, many guests will select the AC filter and we won't even show up in the results. Is there a creative way for us to get around this? Could we purchase a portable AC unit and keep it on hand even though 99% of guests would never use it, but then we can list our property as having AC?

[Shelley159]

Hi @Stephen1864 

If you're in an area where air conditioning is not necessary, I would expect that few of your competitors have it? That means you'll have an equal chance of showing up in search results. Also, guests will hopefully not apply the air conditioner filter if it's irrelevant in the area (or when they see how few options remain when the filter is applied).

As long as your amenities are in line with what your competitors offer, I wouldn't worry about it. I'd be a little reluctant to buy a portable air conditioner just to tick the amenity. I understand your point that it will likely not be used at all, but I'd be concerned if someone does book because of it - will they then leave a bad review because it's ineffective and just for show?

Also, the portable air conditioners that I've known can be a bit tricky. Guests will have to empty the water tank, or you'll need a way for it to drain into plumbing or outdoors (which may need some modification). If very few guests use it, it's probably not the end of the world, but again a little bit risky that those who do use it may complain if it's not properly set up.

[Stephen1864]

Thanks for your thoughts @Shelly159 . Unfortunately, most of the other hosts in this area are situated at a lower elevation than us and they do need AC for their units to be comfortable. Our average annual temp when you average the highs and lows is literally 72 degrees, which is why we don't need it.  Very few guests who search for properties in this area would even consider that you wouldn't need AC. It's a tropical island so the assumption is that you need it. Therefore, I'm guessing that most prospective guests who search and use filters will select the AC option. There are only a handful of other hosts in our area, perhaps 10%, who do not have AC and who are in a similar situation as us. Anyhow, even though we have a pretty good occupancy rate, I feel that many prospective guests are not even discovering us due to this AC filtering issue and we are leaving money on the table. We've had a few inquiries where guests will mention that we don't have AC and we are able to explain the situation. But my feeling is that many prospective guests won't even have a chance to see the property or read the description where we mention the mild temps.

[Shelley159]

Ah I see @Stephen1864 

It sounds like over time, you could consider installing a split-type unit in the main bedroom? You don't have to buy the most expensive if guests won't use it much. When most of us buy air conditioners, we have to look at the cost of the electricity over the years more than the initial cost. In your case it sounds like you can just decide to take the plunge on a reasonably-priced machine when you're ready, as it probably won't add much to your electricity bill.

It may even come in handy if you have some unusual weather at some point.

(I'm not sure which of the 3 listings we're talking about - the largest has 3 bedrooms, so you'd have to decide whether the listing in question can be called "air conditioned" after installing just one machine in one of the rooms ...)

[Lorina14]

@Stephen1864 

In our area, most homes do not have AC but newer homes and the past decade we have seen 1-2 weeks of a heat wave each year have prompted many homes to include AC. Since many guests are used to having AC in hotels when they travel, some hosts have offered a portable AC option.

They will state in their listing that the temperatures are such that one doesn’t need an AC but we have a portable one for use that if requested will set up (they bring it out for the summer time only). It installs near a window with a tubing outside for the condensation. I think this has helped to accommodate the guests who are searching for that option.

Just make sure to clearly describe that the portable AC is for the bedroom or x room only as they may expect one for every room or may have an unrealistic expectation to set the AC to 55F (a couple asked us why the AC didn’t work and our mini splits don’t go down to 55F per the manufacturer, it’s not recommended nor possible). It’s all about managing expectations to ensure a comfortable stay for all involved. Let us know how it goes.

[Stephen1864]

Thank you for those great suggestions @Lorina14 . I've already been researching portable AC units. I think we will have one or two units on hand for anyone that needs/requests one but we'll probably try to encourage guests to keep the windows open to enjoy the fresh air and to hear the jungle sounds at night. We also run off of solar most of the time, so we need to consider the load that AC units will have on the system. Fortunately, when it's cloudy and our solar system is not producing much energy, it's also going to be a bit cooler.

[Marie8425]

@Stephen1864 

If the normal in your area is no A/C then if a potential Guest uses that filter no listings come up?

When I did Hawaii generally no AC but some places do have available  The pricing is reflective because cost of what Hawaiians consider a luxury item is expensive.It isn't a matter of Airbnb its a matter of what the market wants to pay.

[Emilie]

Thank you so much Shelley, Lorina and Marie for your suggestions!

@Stephen1864 It must be so lovely to not need A/C and enjoy cooler temperatures while making the most of the Puerto Rican sun ☀️ With all the advice you've received from other hosts, I was wondering if you'd made a decision now as to what to do regarding the possible portable unit?