A little maintenance goes a long way


By Cameron McNeill
The purchase of a new home is an exciting time in your life. While your property management firm alongside strata council will have an annual maintenance plan for the building and its common areas, you’re responsible for your home’s interior maintenance. Here are some helpful tips for the regular care and maintenance that comes with condo living.

Energy-saving tips to lower your costs

An easy way to save energy and lower your monthly utility bill is to look at your lighting. Choose energy-efficient options by replacing halogen bulbs with LEDs, which offer a longer lifespan. LEDs will improve your electricity use, which means you will reduce your costs and spend less time replacing bulbs.
Another energy-saving tip is the addition of curtains in your home. A heavier fabric or blackout curtains can keep heat from escaping in the winter, and keep the hot sun from heating up your space in the summer.
With the cold winter season, we crank up the heat but often forget to turn it off before heading out. Consider a programmable thermostat for your home heating system to keep your condo warm or cool. BC Hydro recommends the Energy Star programmable thermostat. When set properly, it can help save as much as 10 percent on your energy bill.

Large appliance tips that are well worth the effort

Appliances that are used daily, like laundry equipment, should be high on your checklist. A basic tip is to replace the rubber hoses that come with your washing machine with steel braided hoses. This tubing is more durable and resistant to bursting.
Often neglected is the water heater, which has an average life span of 10 years with proper maintenance. To extend the life of your water heater in townhomes, replace the anode rode to slow down corrosion in the tank. It is recommended to drain the tank in order to remove the sediment build-up every few years. On a regular basis, inspect your water tank to ensure there is no corrosion or cracking, which can lead to water leakage.
Always read the manufacturer’s manual for care and maintenance instructions when it comes to upkeep on major appliances or ask a professional.
When you’re out researching a home and in the presentation centres, ask a sales representative about the interior finishings and appliances and their product brands. Take note of the quality and life expectancy. After your successful home purchaser and the completion of your building, you’re entitles to a walk-through, which is a great time to inquire about maintenance of items and to conduct a simple scan of potential energy-saving solutions.

The Smithe by Boffo features a stacked LG washer and dryer.

Original article: New Homes & Condo Guide, February 17 – March 3, 2017.

Original article: The Province
Read original aricle here.