A newly constructed home may have a new house smell, with everything in working order, no chipped paint or squeaky doors or floors.

But that doesn’t mean that everything will stay that way or that maintenance and care can be put off for many years down the road.

Just as you and your family get accustomed to your new surroundings, the home will also require some time to get acclimated to the elements and its new occupants.

To avoid any premature system failures or untimely wear and tear, there’s some care tips you can implement immediately to keep your home in tip-top shape.

Start with the owner’s manual

The home’s new appliances and system will have an owner’s manual with some helpful information and care tips to follow.

Reading through each booklet will be dull, but it’ll provide some vital information on how to keep everything in working order and tips on how to maximize each device.

Did you know, for instance, that water heaters should be drained yearly? This process removes gunk buildup at the bottom, extending the tank’s life expectancy and ultimately saving homeowners money.

Pay close attention to yards

As a new construction, the structure of the home will have moved some soil around.

This means that it’ll take some time for the soil and grading to settle into place.

In the meantime, be proactive and watch out for water flowing toward the home.

The drainage outside the home can be impacted for years as the soil recompacts and returns to a settled or original state.

Homeowners must regrade any slopes that are directed toward the home to avoid erosion or water from entering around or below the foundation, crawlspace or basement.

Replace air filters

Go above and beyond the manufacture recommendation and replace air filters frequently.

This healthy habit will allow for proper air flow. It doesn’t take much time for particles to build up along the filter, which will disrupt steady air flow.

Even if the filter is marked for 90-day use, it’s wise to change it out more frequently to ensure proper air-flow maintenance.

Understand home dynamics

Homeowners that decide to keep the air conditioner off during summer months can expect the paint and wood floors to pay the price due to higher humidity levels.

Because of the various possible home dynamics, it’s important for homeowners to understand the impact they have on how systems, surfaces and appliances fare depending on how they are used.

The number of people living in the home will also be a factor on home dynamics, such as moisture or system stress.

New homeowners should learn everything they can about how their actions directly or indirectly affect the home and its parts and then make adjustments as needed.

Know the home warranty

New homes are typically equipped with a warranty from the builder or a third party.

This will cover the residents through the first year of ownership.

Workmanship and materials that were part of the construction, such as HVAC, plumbing, windows and electrical components will fall under the plan, at least partially.

Get to know the details of each warranty guarantee to prepare for the event of an unlikely breakdown.

For those feeling a little lost when reading the warranties, the Federal Trade Commission has published some useful FAQs and guides for homeowners of new constructions.

From the moment you step inside your home, it’ll be at optimal working order, except for any unforeseen defects. It is up to you, then, to ensure that it’s well maintained and cared for so it can stay that way for many years to come.

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