Common New Homeowner Mistakes

Whether it’s your first or fifth, there’s nothing like the anticipation and excitement of buying a home. Still, don’t let all that enthusiasm cause you to forget the little things that can add up to big problems and expenses if left unattended.

Here are just a few to keep in mind.

1. Water shut-off valve. If you’ve ever had a clogged toilet, you know how quickly water can start spilling over the top, drenching everything in its path. Which means the faster you shut the water off, the better. Now imagine that same scenario but with a cracked or burst pipe causing the spillage – now you’ve got much more water on the loose, and potentially bigger problems to cope with. That’s why you need to know where the main shutoff valve is located, and how to use it.

2. Call 811 before digging. Installing a fence, planting a shrub, or building a deck? All great additions, but they could produce dangerous results without proper precautions. So, before you dig call 881 – the national dig-safety hotline – to make sure there are no underground wires, cables, or pipes in the way. It’s a free service that connects with local professionals who often contact you directly within a day.
3. Soil slope. The ground around your home should slope away at least 6 inches for 10 feet on all four sides. The idea is to keep rainwater and melting snow from damaging your foundation. If it doesn’t, get two or more estimates to determine what it might take to have the situation corrected.  While you’re at it, have the foundation checked for cracks.
4. Drilling into walls. Whether you’re hanging a piece of art, a shelf, or installing a cabinet, it’s important to know exactly where to drill to avoid cutting into electrical wiring, ductwork, and pipes. Stud finders are ideal for this purpose. To find a stud, simply power on your device and move it horizontally until it indicates one. Mark the stud location in pencil and, if need be, keep moving along the wall to find others.
5. Not knowing when to call a pro. Yes, you can often save money by fixing something yourself. But it’s fool’s gold if you’re not fully qualified or, worse, you’re attempting something that requires a state license – one that you don’t have.

Speaking of licensed professionals, here we are. That’s right – heating and cooling services are so complex and important to your family’s ongoing comfort and safety, we train rigorously to maintain, repair, and install HVAC systems to the highest levels of excellence. So, anytime the need arises, contact Correct Temp and consider the problem solved.