Older homes can often be purchased more affordably than new homes. However, you will have to do a bit more maintenance to keep the home in good shape. Some of this maintenance comes down to simply installing the right appliances that will keep your home functioning properly. Here are three such appliances that you should always install in an older home.

A Water Softener

Assuming your area has hard water -- and most do -- you should have a plumber install water softener systems in your older home. Old pipes are often made from galvanized steel rather than copper. Steel pipes are more prone to mineral buildup than are copper pipes. Since hard water is high in mineral content, the minerals will slowly settle out of the water and form clogs inside of the pipes. A water softener will remove these minerals from the water so they don't cause you any more costly pipe damage than necessary. While the cost of a water softener may seem off-putting, it is a lot cheaper than having to have your entire home re-piped. 

A Dehumidifier

Humidity can be an issue in any home, but it is especially so in an older home where the building materials are already aging. Excess moisture can cause drywall and wood to warp, and older drywall and wood may not recover. Dehumidiifers that integrate with your HVAC system are great because they run in the background without you even realizing it. However, if you are short on funds, you can buy a portable dehumidifier or two and set one up on each floor. The appliance will pull moisture out of your air before that moisture has a chance to cause damage.

Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans are crucial in the kitchen and bathroom. Some older homes do not have them, but it is definitely worth your while to have them installed. The fans will exhaust the moist air so it does not add to the humidity in your home. Then, you just have to remember to turn the fan on every time you shower or cook. You will get fewer stains on your walls, your hardwood will remain in better condition, and your dehumidifiers won't have to pull as much moisture out of the air.

With a water softener, dehumidifiers, and exhaust fans, your older home will be set up for success. Talk to a contractor to learn more about having these appliances installed.