It is a new year and time when many make those infamous New Year’s resolutions. Some popular ones are eating better, losing weight or starting an exercise program. The New Year can also be a great time to make plans for updates and improvements to your home. Updating your home’s fixtures and structures can not only increase your home’s value, but also make for a more comfortable space to live and play in. Updates can also save you money on utility bills and future repairs.
A great place to start is in cleaning and organizing. Spring may be the traditional time for deep cleaning, but January is a good time to start inside. With the typical rainy weather in the Northwest, there is plenty of time to look around inside and see what is needing attention. Windows, baseboards, drapery and blinds, rugs, appliances, ductwork, and exhaust fans can all easily get neglected during regular cleaning. While you are at it, clean out closets and clutter and sell or donate items you no longer need or use. Organize desks and drawers and even the refrigerator when the days are dark and it is too wet to go outside.
Another great resolution is to plan out any home improvements you want to make in the coming year. Upgrades to kitchens or baths, additions or remodels, or even just plans to replace and update flooring or paint either inside or out. Planning helps you stay organized and also budget for all the things you want to do.
Planning can also extend into the yard and garden. Winter is a good time to look out the window and envision any changes you want to make to your yard or deck/patio. Some ideas include planting vegetable or perennial gardens, installing a pond, or even laying a new walkway or patio.
The new year is also a great time to evaluate your home’s systems. Electrical, plumbing, and of course heating and cooling. What better time to plan for improvements and upgrades than before your existing system breaks or gives out and you end up in an emergent situation.
Some great questions to ask yourself are:
How old is your current system and at what efficiency is it operating currently? If you are not sure, it can help to call in a professional for a maintenance and service call.
Is a new system in your future? A professional can also help with this one. Or, you may already have an idea yourself if you know the age of your current system. Many systems have a fairly predictable life expectancy.
If you know a new system is in your future, it could be a good time to start investigating your options and learning about costs to both install and operate something new. In terms of heating and cooling, a ductless heat pump system is often your most efficient option both to install and to operate.
If a new heating and cooling system is in your home’s future this new year, give us a call to find out more. We can also give you updated information on any rebates or incentives available from your local utility.