Denver’s allure is undeniable. The mountains and the vibrant culture make the Mile High City a fantastic place to live. But moving can be stressful. You must prepare your home to meet local conditions. Prepping your new home is key to a smooth transition.
From logistics to working appliances, there’s much to handle. However, one of your first steps should be finding a reliable electrician in Denver. They can check your property’s electrical system and test the reliability of electrical equipment. This helps identify necessary high-altitude living upgrades. It is vital for those living in high-altitude areas.
This guide contains practical tips to prepare your home before you settle in. You’ll learn about the local environment, needed upgrades, and smart improvements. Follow these tips to make your relocation swift and hassle-free.
Essential Home Infrastructure Upgrades
You must check and update your home systems before moving. They include:
#1. Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Start with electrical wiring and plumbing. This is especially true for older homes. Electricians can spot hazards like outdated wiring or faulty outlets. They can also check overloaded circuits.
Denver homes sometimes have older electrical systems. This makes inspections even more important. Table Mountain Electric reveals electricians charge around $40 to $150 in Colorado. However, complex or specialized projects might cost even more. The plumbing requires checking too. Look for leaks and check pipe condition. Water pressure is significant.
Denver has soft to somewhat hard water. Water Defense discloses that as of November 2023, the city’s tap water had 80 mg/L of hardness. It is caused by calcium, magnesium, and other elemental residue compounds. This can affect plumbing as they clog pipes and water heating appliances.
If you heat this water, magnesium, and calcium carbonate solidify, leaving mineral deposits in your tank or pipes. This causes the heater to use more energy to heat the water, thus increasing your utility bills. A plumber can address these issues by installing a water softener system. According to Angi, it’ll cost you about $1,500. However, rates range from $200 to $6,000.
#2. HVAC System
Next, assess your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It is crucial, as Denver’s weather can be unpredictable. Days are warm and nights are cold. Additionally, the thin air influences how heating and cooling systems work.
Check if your current system can handle Denver’s altitude. Many units require adjustment or replacement to work well at 5,280 feet. Upgrading your HVAC system improves comfort. It can also lower energy bills. Forbes reveals that a new HVAC system installation averages around $10,000.
However, be ready to pay anywhere from $3 to $7 per square foot. A tune-up for your furnace and AC is smart. Depending on your furnace choice, installing it would cost you between $2,000 and $10,000. Similarly, you’ll have to pay between $200 and $14,000 for an AC installation.
Electrical appliances require special care at higher elevations. Keep safety and energy efficiency in mind when planning these upgrades.
#3. Pest Control
Pests are an additional issue. Rodents and bugs are common. A pest control inspection is a good idea. Preventative measures are even better. The typical Denver pest control rate is above the national average. The national average is $450 for standard visits and services, while the same costs $511 in Denver.
Optimizing for Denver Living
Weatherproofing is essential. Denver gets snow and sometimes hail. Temperature swings in Denver can exceed 30 degrees in one day. Add additional insulation in walls and attics to handle these changes. Seal windows and doors to stop drafts. Focus on areas around windows and doors where most heat loss occurs.
Good insulation keeps your home comfortable. It also saves you money. Similarly, Denver’s 250+ days of sunshine bring intense UV exposure. Apply UV-resistant window coverings to protect furniture and carpets. These films block 99% of harmful rays while keeping your home cooler.
The city’s dry climate can damage your home and health. Install whole-house humidifiers to maintain proper moisture levels. Aim for 30-40% humidity levels to protect wood furniture and prevent breathing issues. The humidity affects landscaping. The climate is semi-arid. Choose plants that don’t need much water. Check your sprinkler system. Adjust it as needed.
Finally, check your roof. It requires special attention for snow loads. Denver receives modest snowfall, but snowstorms can be intense. Check your roof’s support system and ensure proper drainage to prevent ice dams.
Home security is also important. A security system offers peace of mind. Consider alarms and cameras. Smart home security is also an option. Think about neighborhood safety, too.
Mile-High Home Systems
Water pressure drops at higher altitudes. Install a pressure booster if your water flow seems weak. This ensures the proper function of dishwashers, washing machines, and showers.
Choose paint and sealants made for high altitudes. Regular products may not dry properly in thin air. Look for products labeled “high-altitude formula” for best results. Gas appliances require recalibration at Denver’s elevation. They use less oxygen here than at sea level. Wrong settings can lead to poor performance or safety issues.
The city also has strict building codes for altitude-related modifications. Common requirements include:
- Special venting for gas appliances
- Enhanced electrical grounding
- Specific insulation R-values
- UV protection measures
Get permits for major changes to your home systems. Denver requires licenses for:
- Electrical system upgrades
- HVAC modifications
- Major plumbing changes
- Structural alterations
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does it take for the human body to adjust to Denver’s altitude?
Those from sea level need about 24 hours to acclimate to Denver’s elevation. During this time, ensure your home has proper oxygen circulation and humidity control. Avoid alcohol, heavy workouts, and consuming sedatives for 1–3 days. Stay hydrated and consider sleeping at a slight incline for the first few nights.
Q2. How can I reduce energy bills through home upgrades in Denver?
You can reduce energy bills by installing energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, and enhanced insulation. These upgrades minimize heat loss and lower cooling costs. You can also invest in solar panels to make the most of Denver’s copious sunshine. Each improvement makes your home more efficient and reduces monthly expenses.
Q3. What permits do I need for home modifications in Denver?
When planning home improvements in Denver, you may require permits for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural changes. These permits ensure your work meets local codes and safety standards. Always contact Denver’s building department or a qualified contractor to verify which permits apply to your project.
You now have a clear plan to prepare your home before moving to Denver. Review each step and focus on the details that suit your home’s needs. Upgrading systems, embracing smart technology, and following local regulations can ease your transition. Spare some time to outline and execute these changes.
Start preparations at least two months before moving. Create a timeline for inspections and modifications. This helps avoid rushed decisions and ensures quality work. Remember that proper home preparation affects comfort and safety. Take time to research local contractors and get multiple quotes. These initial investments will protect your home and family in Denver’s unique environment.
