Moving into a new home can be overwhelming and there Essential Tasks When Moving to a New Home that might get lost in the shuffle when moving in.
Here are tips that will help maximize energy efficiency, prolong the life of your HVAC system, and help prevent problems further down the line.
Table of Contents
Find Important Items
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Locate the main water shut-off valve and electrical circuit breaker panel.
The electrical panel and main water shut-off valve are usually inside the garage, but may be outside in older homes.
The circuit breaker panel holds electrical system breakers, which can be flipped off and on in cases of electrical shortages or flipped off when repairing electrical wiring or appliances.
The main water valve should be shut off for plumbing repairs or in emergencies, such as with large leaks that do not have localized shut-off valves, like you would find under sinks or behind the toilet.
Check Crawlspaces and Pipes
Inspect your attic and crawlspace or basement.
By examining these less visible spaces, you might find mold or signs of pest infestation.
Check pipes to sinks, toilets, and appliances for water leaks.
These problems are much easier and more affordable to manage when they are found early.
Weatherization for Efficiency
Maximize your energy efficiency by weatherizing your home.
Check the weatherstripping around your windows and doors and replace it if is chipped or cracked.
Have a technician check the ducts of your HVAC system for air leaks.
They can also inspect the insulation in your crawlspace or attic.
These steps will significantly improve your air quality and temperature control, help prevent problems with bugs and mites, and save you money.
Clean Your New Home
It is so easy to forget how much traffic goes through your house before closing.
Wipe cabinet shelves and countertops with a non-toxic cleaner to pick up any leftovers from the previous owners, contractors, or pests.
Steam clean your carpets and mop your floors before your furniture is moved in to pick up any residual dust or grime from pre-closing repairs.
Check your HVAC filter and replace it if you can’t see light through it.
Some homeowners will leave a few behind. If not, you can buy new filters at most home improvement or big box stores.
Dust your vents and fans to further improve your home’s air quality.
Start a Homeowner’s Journal
Stay organized and up to date by keeping all your homeowner documentations in one spot.
Get a 3-ring binder or an accordion folder and notepad to log dates of services, while keeping track of maintenance expenses, insurance documents, and other paperwork.
This simple organizational tool allows you to hold your home’s important information close at hand and will help you keep a consistent maintenance schedule.
Give your home a fresh start.
These simple steps will help prevent hefty repairs from damage and increase your home’s energy efficiency, which will save you a lot of money in the long run.
Start your journal once you move in to track maintenance and repairs as soon as possible.
Do you need some more advice regarding your next home move – check these articles out; Tips to Save Money on Your Next Move, The Ultimate Moving Checklist and The Ultimate Moving Checklist.
