24 New Year’s Resolutions for Houston Homeowners

24 Tips for a Safer, More Comfortable, More Cost Efficient Home in 2024

With the new year in striking distance, it's an excellent time to take stock of the past year's resolutions and think ahead to our resolutions for a better 2024. And, given ongoing pandemic-related disruptions, the winter freeze, and news headlines that sometimes include the phrase “murder hornets,” let's be honest—for making it through 2023 wiser and stronger, we have earned a happier, healthier, more joyous new year.

A great place to really start thinking about setting resolutions for 2024 involves building on the lessons 2023 taught us about the most important place in the world, our community, the setting in which our lives play out, our refuge and community, where the heart is: our homes.

Over the past few years, we have learned the true value of being able to have family and a community of loved ones gather in our kitchens, of hanging stockings (safely) on a roaring fireplace in anticipation of holiday togetherness, and of finding a peaceful, relaxing corner of the house where we can truly unwind. We understand now better than ever how a warm, well-insulated home can take care of us when the power goes out (and, having spent so much time at home over the past few years, we all probably know exactly what we need to do to take care of our homes right back).

So, whether your focus is on making your home safer, more comfortable, and easier on the wallet or on turning your home into a place that brings you and your family more joy, here are 24 ways to make 2024 the best year ever for your family and your home.

Resolutions for a safer home in 2024

Resolution #1

If you have an outdated AC, replace it

Do you have an older AC that uses R-22? If so, your AC runs on refrigerant liquid that is no longer being produced because it harms the ozone, and recharging it with a synthetic R-22 solution can put your family at risk. Replace it with a newer model, which will be more energy use efficient on top of being safer.

Resolution #2

Protect your home from electrical fires and shocks

Electrical panels can be fire hazards, and if yours is over ten years old, make it a habit to check if it's still safe or not. Even if you have a newer panel, routine maintenance is a must to keep your electrical system safe. Have your electrical panel inspected and, if necessary, replaced by a licensed electrician. And don't forget to teach your children electrical safety basics when you're doing inspections.

Resolution #3

Protect your electronics with a whole house surge protector

Keep your electronics safe by installing a whole-house surge protector.

Resolution #4

Provide your family with cleaner water

You would not believe how many pollutants lurk in Houston's tap water, from arsenic to animal fecal matter to geosmin to carcinogens like radon. Call a licensed plumber to install and maintain a whole-house filtration system to remove contaminants from your drinking water.

Resolution #5

Make it easier to breathe at home

Protect your family from allergens and viruses in the new year by making improvements to your interior air quality. Building small habits like checking your air filters once per month and having your air ducts and carpets deep cleaned once a year can go a long way toward removing allergens from your environment to improve indoor air quality. Or, take your own home improvements to the next level: Reach out to an indoor air quality specialist to set up your free indoor air quality assessment and ask about upgrading your home to a whole-home air purification system. If you're going for an upgrade, you'll get the most bang for your buck if you improve your indoor air quality during winter.

Resolution #6

Prevent the threat of carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide is the last contaminant on our safety list, a “silent killer” that can build up in your home before anyone notices, with tragic effects. Install carbon monoxide detectors, check them regularly, and remember to have your central heating system tuned up every year to keep your home safe.

Resolution #7

Get ahead of HVAC issues

Regular maintenance is key to peace of mind and can keep your home safe before big problems arise. Watch out for the top HVAC Problems found in Older Homes and signs it's time to replace your AC or heater, especially if they're more than 20 years old.

Resolution #8

Get ahead of plumbing issues

If you have an older home, especially one with galvanized pipes, or have noticed brownish water coming out of your faucets, unusually low water pressure, or leaks, this may be the year to tackle repiping. Use that opportunity to make sure you have the best pipes for Houston homes.

Resolution #9

Get ahead of water issues

What would you do without warm water? That's probably a question you don't want to be forced to answer in 2024. Remember to flush your water heater inspect the control panel once a year, and know the signs that you need a water heater replacement.

Resolution #10

Get ahead of other foreseeable problems areas with a VIP membership

To fully stay on top of all your home maintenance needs, you can become a 'Save Moore' Member and enjoy Spring and Fall HVAC tune-ups, maintenance reminders, exclusive member savings, priority service, and more!

Resolutions for a more comfortable home in 2024

Resolution #11

Achieve better temperature control with attic insulation

Keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer with enough insulation, for example, which, in addition to keeping your home at the right temperature, can make your home more energy efficient, too! Insulation comes in many varieties, so ensure you have the best insulation for a Houston home. This is an easy one to check off your list because the insulation professionals at John Moore will do your energy efficiency inspection for free!

Resolution #12

No uninvited houseguests in 2022: pest exclusion

Between sugar ants, fire ants, bats, mosquitos, fleas, roaches, squirrels, and a number of other home invaders, staying in control of the pest situation in Houston can feel overwhelming. Set up your free inspection with our pest control specialists to set a weekly, monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, or annual treatment schedule according to your home's needs.

Resolution #13

Prepare your home for a cozier winter in 2024

When late fall comes around, you’ll want to prepare your home for winter to really get the most comfort and joy during the holiday season. Complete your annual roof inspection to check the roof for heavy algae buildup, cracks and gaps, clear foliage, check your chimney cap, and weatherproof your home to seal off entry points in your siding. Not only will your home stay warmer and safe from water damage, but taking these steps also helps keep pests outside where they belong.

Resolution #14

Improve the accessibility and safety of your bathroom

Comfort means peace of mind, and improving the safety and accessibility of your own room and bathroom can go a long way toward boosting your comfort at home for years to come. You can do all kinds of things to accommodate mobility and safety needs in the bath, like installing a roll-in shower, a shower chair, rails, grab bars or a walk-in bathtub. Regardless of your choice, our tub and shower installation experts will help!

Resolutions to save on monthly bills for a fatter wallet in 2024

Resolution #15

Lower your energy bills with some TLC for your HVAC system

Regular HVAC maintenance is key to keeping the most energy-intensive systems in your home operating efficiently. Lower your bills in 2024 by scheduling your 30-point home heating inspection during the fall, and ask the experts at John Moore Services to check your air ducts, coils, and condenser while they're there, too.

Then, make sure the air your HVAC produces doesn't fly right out by fixing air leaks and adding more attic insulation. (Remember, John Moore will do a home energy efficiency inspection to see if you need more for free.)

Resolution #16

Boost your home’s energy efficiency

Interested in an upgrade that will pay for itself over time? Reach out to John Moore's expert electricians with questions about energy-saving renovations and upgrades, such as installing a Nest Learning Thermostat or an Electricity Minder to save on monthly bills. Or, you can tackle the quarter of your energy bill devoted to producing hot water and invest in a tankless water heater for unlimited hot water that takes less energy to produce.

You can further boost your home's energy efficiency by including the whole family! Read up on how to reduce your energy bill in winter and summer, and teach your kids how to save energy.

And if you want to go big on energy savings without the headache of comparing plans, our VIP 'Save Moore' Membership includes our Energy Ogre service to find and manage the lowest fixed-rate plan for your home.

Resolution #17

Invest in your home

Feeling inspired? You can take on many water-saving renovations to save money in the new year, like installing a low-flow toilet to help with water conservation. Or, choose a project that pays for itself and adds value to your home. No matter what you pick, you can count on us to answer your questions and make your vision a reality.

Resolutions for getting more joy from your home in 2024

Resolution #18

Treat yourself to the home you’ve always wanted

There’s really no time like the present to turn your home into a space that brings you joy with a comprehensive bathroom remodel process. Count on the experienced remodel technicians at John Moore to see you through it from planning to execution.

Resolution #19

Treat your kitchen and bathroom to a makeover

If you want to renew your space without going all in with a complete remodel, you can still find ways to treat yourself to a more joyful home by focusing on one high-impact area. Get cooking in the kitchen you’ve always wanted by upgrading to a new sink or updating your kitchen cabinets.

Resolution #20

Turn your bathroom into an oasis of relaxation

Turn your bathroom into a spa for greater relaxation in 2022! Whether you're interested in remodeling for safety and accessibility reasons or you want to invest in self-care with a luxurious new tub, our tub and shower installation experts are ready to help you make your bathroom feel brand new.

Resolution #21

Use needed repairs to get one step closer to your dream home.

You'd be amazed how easily joy replaces frustration when you view problem areas you find in your home inspection as opportunities to improve your space. Fix damaged spots in your drywall and treat yourself to a fresh coat of paint, maybe with new colors, while you're at it. If you have doors and windows with air leaks, treat your home to a makeover and replace them. Remember to keep hold of your vision for your home when things go wrong, and you'll find that, little by little, dreams become reality.

Resolution #22

Do it right

Remodeling your kitchen and bathroom can make your home look beautiful and new, but before you start, you need to think about what lies beneath—your pipes. If you have old pipes, consider repiping before you remodel, lest old pipes spring a leak behind the beautiful new wall you had put in. Check out our repiping FAQ page for more info!

Resolution #23

Implement Termite Prevention and Detection

Safeguard your home from the silent damage caused by termites. Schedule annual inspections with a pest control professional to detect early signs of infestation. Consider preventive treatments like soil treatments or bait systems to create a barrier against these destructive pests. Regularly inspect wood structures for signs of damage and moisture, as these can attract termites, and address any issues promptly to keep your home safe and intact.

Resolution #24

Create a Disaster Preparedness Plan

Don't let unexpected emergencies catch you off guard. Create a comprehensive disaster plan covering everything from fires to floods. Include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a supply kit. Regular drills and updates will ensure everyone in the household knows what to do in case of an emergency.

Set yourself up for success in 2024

Turn your hopes and dreams for your home in the New Year into achievable goals by writing out when you’ll tackle each one on a calendar, and bookmark this page for easy reference when you’re ready to take on each task. If this sounds like the year you want to go big, unlock bundled savings with a 'Save Moore' Membership.

And remember, you’re not alone: reach out to our team of John Moore specialists at (713) 597-7200 or message us online with questions or to book your service appointments!