5 HOME IMPROVEMENT RESOLUTIONS FOR 2021

A new year is the perfect opportunity to reflect and start fresh. When thinking about what you’re hoping to accomplish in the new year, consider some resolutions around home improvement. With the combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the California wildfires, we’ve been spending many more hours inside.  So don’t wait another twelve months! Resolve to make 2021 the year of home comfort with these 5 key home improvements.

1) Resolve to Breathe Better

One thing that became crystal clear over the last 365 days is that the simplest thing of all – the air we breathe – plays a critical role in our health. 

2021 is the time to investigate your IAQ (Indoor Air Quality). IAQ is not just the dust floating around in the air. The air inside your home contains viruses, bacteria, allergens, and odor-causing pollutants. High humidity and low humidity can both cause many additional issues from mold to structural damage. 

At Brody Pennell, we provide a variety of IAQ services and products to improve your home comfort beyond the temperature. Our air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers,  and duct cleaning services will ensure that your family breathes the best possible air all year long.  

2) Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

One of the best goals you can set for the new year is to take better care of our environment. Conserving energy is a big undertaking. Fortunately, you can do your part right at home. Putting a greater focus on reducing the use (and waste) of energy in your home will not only contribute to the health of the Earth, but to your bank account as well. When you put a greater focus on eco-friendly choices throughout your home, it will reduce your bills right along with your environmental impact. Here are a few tips to get you started: 

Buy energy-efficient appliances

If you plan to replace your refrigerator, washer and dryer, furnace, or virtually any household appliance this year, put efficiency first. Choose those that are Energy Star rated and which mention energy conservation as a prominent feature.

Disconnect your energy-suckers No matter how innovative your appliances and devices might be, they’ll still expend energy when you aren’t using them. Turn off and unplug anything that you’re not using consistently.

Be mindful of maintenance Many appliances and devices overuse energy in your home because they haven’t been properly maintained, are being misused, or because they need repair which would help them perform more efficiently. Make sure every appliance is functioning at its best to prevent energy overuse.

Prevent energy loss If you notice your heating system is constantly cycling, your home might require weatherization. Outdated windows and doors let cold air into your home, while ducts that require sealing lose that warm air to your attic. That means your heater must work extra hard to warm your home. Weatherize your home to prevent any unnecessary energy loss. 

Stay informed Looking for more information on how you can keep your home energy efficient and reduce your carbon footprint? We have an entire library of energy efficiency resources — start here.

3) Walk the Perimeter

When was the last time you really looked at the outside of your home? If you’re like us, you probably come in and out of your home daily and never give it a passing glance. 

This year, check the exterior of your home with every new season. Look for peeling paint, cracked foundation, overzealous plantlife, and errant gutters. Perhaps you’ll power-wash in the spring, patch the roof this summer, and clean the ivy off of your AC unit this year. 

Whatever your home needs, don’t neglect the outside. You don’t want to be surprised when the outdoor problems come crawling inward. 

4) Put Safety First

It’s never a bad time to put the safety of your family above all else. Unfortunately, many of us neglect safety updates for too long, assuming we won’t need to. Don’t make that mistake this year. Make sure your home is ready for anything:

Upgrade your CO Monitor Don’t wait to make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are upgraded and well-functioning. This could save a life. Brody Pennell can ensure your home and family are secure and safe with an up-to-code Carrier CO detector.

Update your prevention plans Do you have a plan in case of fire or natural disaster? As your family grows and changes, update these plans to account for new occupants or different bedroom arrangements. No matter where they are in your home, your family should know how to react to any emergency.

Invest in security and surveillance If you haven’t already, this year could be a great time to install cameras, floodlights, motion detectors, or even a privacy fence. Even on the safest streets, surprises happen. Don’t let them happen to you.

Deter unwanted pests Not every pest is potentially harmful or hazardous, but no pest is a good pest. Protect your humans, animals, and the house structure from infestations that are costly to remediate.

Make all-over safety updates   

From baby-proofing your house to making updates that suit aging family members, your home constantly needs something new. Make sure that your new bathroom has a no-slip bar for grandma and that you take this winter to finally fix that loose step to the basement. Don’t put off any project that could keep your loved ones safe. 

5) Commit to Heating System Maintenance

Do you have a maintenance plan for your heating and air conditioning systems? If not, this is one of the best investments you could make for your home and the entire family. The benefits of ongoing HVAC maintenance include:

• Keep equipment warranty intact
• Fewer surprise repairs
• Lower repair costs 
• More consistent home comfort
• Prevention of hazards
• Early detection for system replacement

Prioritize the reliable comfort of your home and the cost-savings that come with investing in ongoing heating and cooling maintenance. 

Resolve to Live Healthy & Happy in 2021

With New Year’s resolutions, the goal should be personal and true to you. At Brody Pennell, we believe there’s nothing more sacred than your home. If you plan to give your home some love and attention in 2021, we’re here to help. We can be your partner in helping you achieve your home improvement resolutions. Contact us for all of your heating, cooling, and home comfort needs. Call today at (310) 896 4911.