Buying a new house is exciting. Once the papers are signed and you move in there are important things you should take note of right away.
These are things you should be familiar with so that you can easily manage your home. Everyone living in your home should know these important locations.
Water Main Valve
Locate the main water shut off valve. This is the valve that controls the main water line coming into your home. It may be in the basement or a utility closet. You will need to know where this is located if you are having plumbing work done or if a water emergency takes place.
Electric Panel
Know the location of the main electric panel, most of the time this is in the basement or utility room. You will need to know where it is located if you trip a breaker, or you are having electrical work done. Know how to turn off the main circuit as well as specific breakers. If the electric panel is not labeled, take the time to mark each breaker so you know what areas of your home each one controls.
Gas Valve
Located the main gas line that runs into your home. This valve controls the entire gas supply. Most of the time the main valve is located outside next to the gas meter. Each gas run appliance will also have its own shut off valve.
Sewer & Septic
You don’t really think about the waste system in your home until there is a problem. But major plumbing issues happen and understanding how your system works is important.
If your home uses a septic system be sure you know the location of the tanks and where the inspection and access ports are located. Septic systems require regular maintenance so have the contact information for the company that will be servicing your system readily available.
If the home uses the city sewer system, know the location of the main sewer line and the cleanout valve.
Water Well
If your home’s water is supplied by a well know where it is located. The well access point could be in the basement or outside.
Sump Pump
Know where the sump pump is located, most often found in the basement. Sump pumps are self-activating electric pumps that remove rising ground water and surface water from your home which prevents flooding and water damage. Test the pump a few times a year by pouring about five gallons of water into your pump’s basin. The pump should kick on when the float is activated.
Meter Locations
Know the location of your gas, electric and water meters. Each utility company will need access to the meters, keep the area around the meters free of debris and vegetation overgrowth.
Dryer Vent
Know where the dryer vent is located. You should clean the dryer vent once or twice a year. Clothes dryers cause about 15,000 home fire annually in the United States. The dryer vent should be free of debris. See my article How to Clean your Dryer Vent
Heating & Cooling System
Know where the heating and cooling systems are located. Change the furnace filters several times a year or when they are dirty. Know the size and type of filter your system uses and always keep some on hand.
Attic & Crawlspace
Know where the access doors to the attic and crawlspace are. Some utilities and appliances may be installed there.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Know where these are installed, test them, and change the batteries several times a year. If they are old and outdated replace them.
Property Lines
Know where your exact property lines are. The deed to your home should include a legal description of your land’s boundaries. You can also hire a surveyor to perform a property line survey.
Gutters and Downspouts
Inspect your gutters and downspouts several times a year. If you do not have gutter guards installed, you will need to clear debris from the gutters to prevent water backup and accumulation which can lead to water damage.
The Tech Minimalist 