At Noyes Development, we take pride in crafting semi-custom homes designed with high-efficiency systems that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. 

Living in one of our newly built homes in the Portland area comes with the added benefit of cutting-edge features like Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) systems, airtight construction, and energy-efficient HVAC systems — all engineered to optimize the health and comfort of your family.

While these advanced systems help minimize maintenance, periodic seasonal checks can help keep your home performing at its best for years to come. Here are some maintenance tips, tailored to the Pacific Northwest climate, to ensure your home continues to operate efficiently through every season.

Spring: Freshen up for the warmer months

Spring in Portland is a time of renewal, and it’s also the ideal time to prepare your home for the coming warmer weather. After a wet and sometimes chilly winter, these simple maintenance tasks can help you ensure your home is running as efficiently as possible.

Gutter cleaning

Even in a brand-new home, gutters play a critical role in directing rainwater away from your foundation. After winter, check for any debris that may have been collected and clean your gutters and downspouts. This helps avoid potential water damage and keeps moisture from pooling near your home.

Window and door seals

One of the key features of an airtight home is its ability to prevent drafts and energy loss. Spring is a good time to walk around your home and check the seals around your windows and doors. Portland winters can cause minimal wear on caulking, so this simple inspection can ensure your home remains as airtight as the day it was built.

Summer: Keeping cool, efficiently

Summers in Portland can bring some heat, but with the right preparation, your high-efficiency home will stay cool while keeping energy costs low.

Optimize your HVAC system

Your home’s high-efficiency HVAC system is built to keep you comfortable year-round. While it’s designed to require minimal upkeep, summer is a great time to schedule a basic check-up to ensure everything is working as it should. A quick inspection and professional tune-up can help you avoid unnecessary energy consumption when cooling your home.

Utilize your ERV system

The ERV system in your home is an integral part of keeping indoor air fresh and maintaining a comfortable temperature. Though not much maintenance is needed, make sure to change your filter when needed and the intake and exhaust vents are free from any obstructions, especially as pollen and dust levels rise in the summer.

Shading and window coverings

As efficient as your home is at maintaining indoor temperatures, using smart shading techniques can make a big difference. Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day and consider exterior shading like awnings for additional protection from the sun’s rays.

Fall: Prepping for cooler weather

As fall approaches, the Pacific Northwest can become wetter and cooler. Preparing your home for this shift is essential to maintaining energy efficiency and comfort.

Test your HVAC system

As temperatures drop, your HVAC system will be more active. Before winter sets in, make sure to test your system to confirm that it’s running smoothly. It’s also a good idea to swap out air filters for a fresh start to the heating season, ensuring clean airflow and optimal performance.

Check exterior paint and siding

Even though your home is new, Portland’s wet climate means that fall is a good time to give your home’s exterior a quick visual check. Make sure there’s no excess moisture buildup, and that your siding and paint are holding up well against the elements.

Patio and deck maintenance

With rain in the forecast, fall is a great time to prepare outdoor spaces. Sweep off patios and decks and consider applying a water-repellent sealant to prevent water damage. This simple step helps preserve the longevity of your outdoor spaces.

Winter: Staying cozy and energy-efficient

Winter in Portland is known for its rain and occasional cold snaps, but your high-efficiency home is built to keep you warm and dry with minimal energy use. Here are a few easy ways to maintain comfort and efficiency during the cold months.

Keep an eye on thermostat settings

Your home’s efficiency is supported by using smart thermostat practices. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, but resist the urge to crank up the heat. A programmable thermostat can help you maintain consistent indoor temperatures while minimizing energy waste.

Monitor moisture levels

While your home’s airtight construction keeps the cold air out, it’s still important to monitor moisture levels inside, especially during the rainy season.

Check outdoor drains and water features

With frequent rainfall, make sure your outdoor drainage systems are clear of leaves and debris. This helps direct water away from your foundation, keeping your home dry and preventing any unwanted moisture issues from developing.

General maintenance throughout the year

No matter how efficient your home is, some maintenance tasks apply to every property.

• Change Air Filters Regularly: Whether it’s for your HVAC or ERV system, clean air filters improve air quality and efficiency.
  

• Inspect Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Safety should never be overlooked. Test alarms twice a year and replace batteries as needed.
• Service Your Water Heater: Whether your home features a traditional or tankless water heater, annual maintenance ensures optimal performance and prolongs its lifespan.
• Clean Appliances: Don’t forget about your high-efficiency appliances. Clean lint from dryer vents, run cleaning cycles on your dishwasher, and descale your water heater if necessary.

Keep your home safe and sound

At Noyes Development, we’ve built your home to the highest standards of energy efficiency, comfort, and durability. While these homes are designed to reduce the need for intensive maintenance, following these seasonal tips will ensure that your home continues to perform at its best, year after year.

By taking the time to complete these simple maintenance tasks, you’re not just protecting your home — you’re also ensuring that it remains the comfortable, efficient living, and healthy space you bought.

Our new construction homes feature the latest modern technology and features and are built to last into the future with much less maintenance in the short term than older homes. For more information, visit our website and discover how to experience the benefits of modern new-build homes.