10 "To-do's" After Moving

Moving into a new home is a time-consuming, stressful endeavor. In addition to all the cleaning and unpacking, it seems like there are a million details to attend to before you feel settled in. We’ve put together a top 10 list of things to be sure and do – and included lots of home automation suggestions for you!

1. Change the door locks – Don’t assume your keys are the only existing set. Play it safe and change all your door locks. Also, figure out a backup plan in case you get locked out of your home, such as hiding a key or leaving one with the neighbors. Even better, consider installing a smart lock so you can unlock the door with your phone!
2. Reprogram your garage door opener – Your remote likely has a reset button, but check online or contact the manufacturer for step-by-step instructions if needed. This is a good time to install a smart garage door opener so you can open this door with your smart phone as well.
3. Replace all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors – For smoke alarms, you need one in every bedroom and on every floor. Carbon monoxide detectors are also needed on every floor. With a smart smoke/CO2 alarm like the Nest Protect, you can rest easy because it checks its batteries and sensors over 400 times a day. Plus, you can see the battery status on your phone. Also, be sure to place a fire extinguisher on every level of your home.
4. Change filters – Change aeration filters in kitchen and bathroom faucets, filters in a water softener unit, the air filter in your heater and air conditioning unit, and the vent filter above the stove. If you install a Nest Thermostat, activate the Filter Reminder and it will help you keep track of when to change your filter(s).
5. Locate the electrical panel – In case of emergencies or if you’re fixing a power-related issue, you’ll need to turn off the electricity. If circuit breakers aren’t labeled or are labeled wrong, identify and label each one so that you know which fuse controls which part of your house.
6. Locate the main water valve – Find the main water valve and make sure it’s working properly so that you can shut off the water in an emergency or if you are making a repair. Locate all outside spigots as well.
7. Check your sprinkler controller – If you have a yard, be sure your sprinkler controller is functioning and scheduled to water. Better yet, install a smart sprinkler controller that you can control from your phone.
8. Childproof your new home – If you have a baby or toddler, identify all potential household hazards and take precautionary measures.
9. Make an exit plan for emergencies – Identify and inspect all possible exits from your home. Make sure they are clear and that doors and windows are easy to open. Choose a place to meet outside that is a safe distance from your home (e.g., your mailbox, a neighbor’s house, a stop sign) and make sure everyone in your household understands the plan.
10. Consider installing a burglar alarm – A system with wireless communication via the Internet (with cellular backup) means your system won’t go down if your power goes out. One of the biggest advances in home security recently is the ability for a security system to work in conjunction with other home automation devices you may have.

Contact AvidWorks Technology for details about the installation of smart home devices. Send email to [email protected] or call (800) 701-9021 to learn more.