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Becoming a homeowner for the first time is one of the most exciting experiences one could have. The opportunity to finally have your own place where you can settle in with your family and make wonderful memories is simply amazing.
However, despite all the good things that come with buying your first home, the entire journey can surely feel overwhelming, too. From completing all the paperwork to packing and then unpacking into your new house, there are plenty of tasks you must tackle as a first-time homeowner. Probably the most important one on your checklist is to ensure your new house is safe for you and your fellow dwellers to live in.
From checking your electrical wiring to enhancing your home’s overall security system, there are many things you need to consider to keep your new residence safe. To get you started, here are five home safety tips you should follow to make your new property as hazard-free as possible.
Properly install your HVAC system
If your new home is located in a city like Ottawa in Canada where the climate is semi-continental, with a warm, humid summer and a very cold winter, the chances are you will need to install an HVAC system. This system will provide you with plenty of benefits including improving indoor air quality, energy efficiency and comfort levels.
However, in order to reap all of these benefits, it is important that you have your HVAC system installed by certified technicians. Otherwise, it can end up failing or malfunctioning which will ultimately result in unexpected and expensive home repairs. For a professional installation, look for the best professionals specializing in HVAC installation Ottawa has to offer to suit your new home.
Store hazardous substances safely
Another home safety precaution you need to take is to store all hazardous substances safely away. Those could be obvious things such as dishwasher detergent pods and paint thinner to antifreeze and gasoline for your lawn mower.
For example, when it comes to storing gasoline, it is important that you follow simple safety rules. The most crucial one is to strictly store the gasoline in OSHA approved gas cans or containers to prevent potential fuel leaks and spills which can otherwise pose serious fire hazards. Make sure the gas cans or containers are kept in an outdoor structure such as a tool shed or a separate garage away from people, especially children.
Practice electrical safety
One of the most essential elements of every household is electricity. You need it for pretty much anything, from powering up the Wi-Fi to keeping you warm, so it is important that you practice electrical safety.
For example, your first step when moving into your new home should be to check all electrical wiring installed in the house. Inspect if there are any frayed wires and replace them if necessary.
Also, make sure you place safety covers on open electrical outlets especially if you have pets or toddlers to prevent any electrical injuries and accidents.
If you want to be on the safe side, you can always get a thorough electrical check done by a professional.
Check your plumbing system
In addition to inspecting your electrical wiring, it is crucial that you also check your plumbing system too. This will help you detect if there are any problems that may arise from damaged pipelines and malfunctioning plumbing systems which may result in severe water damage if left unattended.
For example, you can start by checking for any mold in the kitchen, bathroom or basement. Mold is often considered to be the number one sign of water damage which can pose a real threat to the structural integrity of your new house.
Also, don’t forget to test your sump pump as well as your downspouts and rain gutters to prevent further damage to your house’s foundation.
Install a security system
Because you are most likely going to be new in the area, you should consider installing a reliable security system to make you and your family feel more secure and at peace. You have probably invested your hard-earned savings into your new home, so the last thing you want is to have to worry about someone breaking into your house, stealing your personal things and endangering you in any way.
In addition to the traditional home safety components you may add to secure your property, you might want to consider installing smart home security technologies for better protection. This includes smart home locks, smart security cameras and smart lights.
Final thoughts
There is no denying that moving into a new house is one of the most exciting experiences you could have. However, you should know that becoming a homeowner comes with several major responsibilities, one being making your new residence as safe and secure as possible for you and your fellow dwellers.
If you want to know how to achieve this, make sure you refer to our post to learn how to ensure the safety of your new property.