Get a fresh start in the new year for your home! Here some easy maintenance tips to keep your home in tip-top condition in 2018.
Secure Yourself
Gone are the days of bulky security systems that require tons of wiring and long-term contracts. There are now several DIY security systems on the market that allow you to monitor your home 24/7. With the Nest cam, you can simply plug the camera into an electric outlet, download the app, and monitor indoors or outdoors from the convenience of your smartphone! The Ring Doorbell is a great way to ward off potential lurkers – when someone rings the doorbell, your smartphone notifies you – you can see and speak to them from the inside of your home or from anywhere with a cellular or wifi connection!
Go Energy Efficient
There are some easy ways to make your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, and put some dollars back in your pocket at the same time. Set your hot water heater to 120 or 130 degrees. Don’t reduce it below 120 degrees, as lower temperatures may promote bacteria growth and provide insufficient sanitization. Installing low-flow shower heads is another easy way to conserve water and save on costs. In addition, consider replacing halogen or CFL lighting with LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy, last for years, and are cooler to the touch, making it a safer option for table lamps and other exposed fixtures. These small investments will more than pay for themselves in water and energy costs you will save.
Protect from Fire and Ice
Blustery winter days are the perfect time to do some routine maintenance that is often ignored during warmer weather. Monitor the weather – if the temperature is forecast to drop below freezing, wrap your pipes in insulation to ensure they don’t crack or burst. Make sure you’ve turned off the water to all outdoor spigots as well. This is also the perfect time to check and replace the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. You should have a carbon monoxide alarm for each level of your home and near any gas appliances, such as furnaces or dryers.
Labb Homes has been building quality new homes in Atlanta for over 30 years. For more information on our communities and available homes, visit us online at MyLabbHome.com. To keep up-to-date on the latest news and offerings by Labb Homes, check us out on Facebook!
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