Happy New Year! While it came upon us fast, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome 2022 with open arms. The past two years have come with a lot of hardship because of the pandemic, and we’re hoping that this next year will bring some relief. But, as we make our health a high priority, we also want to incorporate this into our homes. We can’t stress the importance of a happy and healthy home enough and wanted to provide you with a list of New Year’s Resolutions to follow in 2022. So here are 12 resolutions for a happy and healthy home!
1 Replace Filters
Many homeowners don’t realize how often they need to replace the filters in their HVAC units. While this may vary depending on the unit, you’ll want to be diligent about the replacements for a few reasons. First, replacing dirty filters helps keep energy bills down and extends the life of your unit. Additionally, clean filters mean clean air!
2 Install Stainless Steel Appliances
Like microwaves, refrigerators, and ovens, stainless steel appliances are generally cleaner and provide a lovely chic look. They’re trendy among those looking to buy a home and are a great addition if you want to sell your home fast. Additionally, they match the look of most kitchens and provide a timeless style that is sought after by home buyers. They are a valuable piece if you ever need to sell your home fast!
3 Keep Gutters Clean
Keeping your gutters free from leaves and debris is important for protecting your home from flooding and water damage. Clean gutters help transport rainwater away from your home and into an intended space. Once you do get your gutters clean, try installing a gutter guard to protect your gutters from leaves piling up and causing blockages.
4 Check Insulation
Keep your house warm during the colder months by ensuring your insulation is up to date. Poor insulation can result in a house that is difficult to temperature regulate and high energy bills. Some insulating spots include the attic, flooring, doors, windows, and ducts, but it depends on your home’s structure.
5 Install Eco-Friendly Features
Having a sustainable house is essential to many people shopping for homes, and that isn’t a trend that will disappear anytime soon. A few ways to incorporate eco-friendly features into your home are to install a smart thermostat, replace incandescent lights with LED ones, and add caulking around windows and doors to keep heat from escaping. These are more simple ideas, but there are numerous ways to make your home more eco-friendly if you want to go all-in.
6 Clean Out Ducts
By cleaning out ducts, you ensure that the air in your home is clean and healthy. Many heating and air conditioning companies offer this service as a maintenance package. Don’t suffer from dirty air that holds dust and allergens, and make duct cleaning a priority this new year. Your noses and throats will be grateful!
7 Powerwash Your Exterior
Nothing is better than watching all of the dirt and grime melt off the exterior of your home during a power washing session. During the seasons, dirt begins to pile up and cake onto your home, and this is an excellent way to get things looking fresh and clean again. If you want to sell your house as-is but also need an inexpensive and easy way to get it looking its best, this is the route you should take!
8 Update Landscaping
Landscaping can transform the aesthetic of your home, and this year, why not make it a priority? Many recent guides to selling a house will mention the importance of good landscaping because people value time outdoors. Spruce up the shrubs and trees, plant new grass, and add some outdoor furniture to cozy the place up!
9 Add New Lighting Fixtures
Outdated lighting can make a home look dated, and these days, there are so many ways to be creative with your lights! Try out a retro chandelier in your dining room, or have some fun with a new sconce in the bathroom. The options are endless!
10 Replace Old Carpeting
Carpets deteriorate over the years and can trap allergens and germs. If you have the resources, consider replacing old carpeting with a new type of flooring. You can either stick with the carpeting route or try something new, like hardwood or linoleum.
11 Repaint Your Interior
Walls in your home start to get dirty and chipped over the years, and a fresh coat of paint can make all the difference. Having freshly painted walls will brighten the inside of your home and give off a clean and tidy appearance!
12 Add Additional Storage
A cluttered home is not a happy home, and disorganization can add unnecessary stress to your life. Consider updating your storage or installing new features to provide room for your belongings!
This year, make yourself a promise to keep your home clean and healthy! Some of the ideas above are just the start!