So New Year’s Day has come and gone, and you’re all ready and resolved to make changes in 2016. This year we’re going to lose weight, eat healthier, save money and more, because 2016 is a time of renewal! But what about our homes? Take this opportunity of new beginnings to make a fresh start for your home and garden as well.
1) Make sure your home is safe
Have you tested your smoke alarms recently? Smoke alarms are one of those crucial home elements that we rely on yet often forget about. According to DFES, alarms should be tested at least every 6 months to ensure that they are functioning in working condition. While testing it, make sure to vacuum around the vents with a soft brush to remove any dust or cobwebs, and use a surface insect spray to prevent any nesting. If you need to disconnect or install mains powered fire alarms, engage your local licensed electrician.
2) Protect your home from insects
How long has it been since you’ve had a termite inspection? Termite(or white ant) infestations can be invisible to the eye but wrecking terrible damage to your home. Double check that you are not increasing your risk of a termite infestation: make sure you have no untreated wood resting up against your home, that your weepholes are clear of debris, and fix water damage around your house quickly to prevent damp attracting termites. If you are due for your annual termite inspection, see our list of local pest controllers.
3) Save money by shrinking your bills
Who doesn’t want to save money in the new year? The easiest way to save your hard earned dollars is to make some simple energy saving resolutions. If you’re only using one room in your home, turn off the lights in the rest of the house. I know it’s hot right now, but turning off your air conditioner when you leave for work will make a significant saving – try closing all your blinds to keep the house cool instead. Switch appliances off at the wall or use a powerboard so you can switch them all off at once. Install energy saving globes, and think about only running your dishwasher and washing machine when they’re completely full.
4) Clean out your closet
It’s the January sales! What a great time to go through your drawers and eliminate clothes that no longer fit or have just past their wearable stage, and go out and get some new ones. I know you love that snuggly jumper, but there comes a time when there are just too many holes to keep it. Pull everything out and sort it into styles and seasons, then start eliminating. For clothing in good condition, make sure to make a pile for your local charity bin. When you’re done you’ll feel refreshed and ready to face the new year.
5) Take on the clutter
Just after Christmas and at the end of a long year can be a terrible time for clutter. In order to have your house tidy and organised for 2016, consider tackling the clutter that’s built up over time. A messy, unorganised house can make it hard to de-stress and relax – trust me, a clear out will make you feel better! It doesn’t need to be done all at once – attack the problem in small chunks.
Prepare yourself with bags and boxes and then address one room at a time. Sort your items into things to keep, things for charity, items for trash and items to be relocated or more efficiently stored elsewhere. If you’re really unsure about throwing some of your things out, put them in a box and leave it in the garage or spare room for a while. If you still haven’t needed any of it in a few months, you know it can safely go in the bin. Once you’re done, the organised and clear state of your home will be a big weight off your mind when facing the year to come.
Let’s make 2016 a great one!
