1. Clear your clutter and schedule a donation pickup. In 2021, resolve to go room-by-room periodically clearing anything that you don’t use, wear, or love and donate it to charity. Some charities will even come pick-up your donation right from your porch.
2. Review your insurance policies . Now’s the time to make sure you’re fully covered and pleased with your existing insurance coverage and provider. Review your home, auto, health, and business policies and make any necessary changes with your insurance provider.
3. Organize your home improvement files . Review warranties and product manuals to check on recommended maintenance for furnaces, appliances & tools. Mark your calendar to track scheduled upkeep and service. Create a space in your home office for important home documents.
4. Safeguard your home . The new year is a great time to scan your home for potential risks.
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- Check your house for radon. One in every 15 homes has elevated levels and with test kits costing as little as $20 at your local hardware store, there’s no reason not to get that checked out.
- Make sure you install a carbon monoxide detector on every bedroom floor in addition to fire detectors. Check out last month’s blog for more information on carbon monoxide safety and October’s blog post about fire safety .
- Inspect furniture, cabinets, and vanities for loose knobs, pulls, and hinges and double check grout and caulk around tubs, sinks, and showers.
- If you haven’t gotten around to winterizing your home, it’s not too late. See our September blog post about winterizing your home and business .
5. Deep clean your home and implement an ongoing cleaning system . We know that doesn’t sound very exciting, but planning ahead will help you stay clean and organized in the long run.
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- Deep clean your dishwasher, trash compactor, and countertop appliances.
- Remove drain traps under sinks and clean them thoroughly.
- Make a commitment to get the dishes into the dishwasher every night – no excuses! Put dirty clothes in the hamper and jackets or clean clothes in the closet. Bring everything back to its assigned place everyday.
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6. Save some energy (and money) . While solar panels and hybrid cars are great to have, here are a few small things anyone can do to make a big impact.
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- Install LED bulbs in your home and take your dad’s advice and switch off the lights when you leave a room.
- Wait for the dishwasher or washing machine to be full before you run them.
- Turn off your power strips and/or set your home computer to revert to sleep mode when not in use.
- Install low-flow showerheads and water your yard less if you can.
- Give composting a try.
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