Dealing with a leaky faucet can be frustrating, wasteful, and costly. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple task that you can likely handle on your own.
In this guide, we walk you through the common causes of a leaky faucet, tools that you’ll need to do the job, the step-by-step process to fix your leak, and when it might be time to seek professional help... Read more
With all the different types of water heaters available, choosing the right type is essential to ensure comfort and efficiency in your home.
Whether you are on the market for a new water heater or doing research on your current equipment, there is value in learning the ins and outs of this essential system... Read more
With the right home warranty, your costly water heater repair and replacement can be covered. Whether you are buying, selling, or currently own a home, understanding the lifespan and costs associated with your essential appliances is extremely valuable.
A home warranty is a service contract that provides protection for major systems and appliances in your home... Read more
Overhead fans are a staple fixture in most homes and a great way to keep your home’s temperature regulated. Of course, a clean and well-maintained ceiling fan works wonders for performance, air quality, and even the unit’s lifespan.
Dust and dirt build-up can lead to performance issues if not cleaned and maintained regularly... Read more
Your freezer is one of the best ways to preserve food. Of course, when it won’t freeze – well, that’s a big problem!
A freezer that stopped working properly causes food spoilage. It can also lead to leaks and other issues... Read more
We count on our home appliances every day. Unfortunately, when something goes wrong, finding the right repair technician isn’t always easy.
For example, a quick online search for “refrigerator repairs” in your area could leave you with dozens of local results... Read more
GFCI outlets are common in most homes. While they function as well as any standard electrical outlet, they boast incredible safety features that can protect against potentially fatal electrical shocks and similar hazards.
Of course, as with any piece of hardware, GFCI outlets can still experience issues... Read more
Having your own washing machine and clothes dryer can’t be beat. Of course, with convenience comes care and maintenance. Over time, lint, string, and other debris can build up and clog your dryer vent. Unless you keep up with it, this can lead to serious issues – even disaster... Read more
The scorching summer heat means cranking up the AC. This usually means higher energy costs, but it doesn’t need to. There are plenty of ways to save money on cooling your home during the hottest days of the year.
We’ve put together ten ways to improve AC efficiency and use alternative cooling methods in your home... Read more
If you’re tired of dealing with rotting food and excess waste, a garbage disposal is perfect for your kitchen. Garbage disposals are easy-to-use appliances that will save time and reduce the amount of garbage you throw away.
Whether you’re buying a garbage disposal for the first time or need a replacement, this guide can help... Read more
A refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in any home. Unfortunately, when there’s an issue, the price to fix a broken fridge goes beyond basic appliance repair costs. You also need to account for losing expensive food to spoilage... Read more
Garbage disposals are among the easiest ways to get rid of food waste. They reduce the rubbish that winds up in your trash can. This can save you money on trash bags, all while keeping your kitchen sink from clogging up due food debris and other buildup... Read more
If you’ve never had a garbage disposal before, you’re in for a treat. Garbage disposals are an incredible appliance, reducing the amount of biodegradable food waste that winds up in your trash, also making cleanup before and after meals a breeze... Read more
With refrigerator problems, there’s more at stake than just your appliance. Issues related to temperature or leakage can cause food spoilage and damage to your home.
Appliance repair costs add up quickly. In fact, the average refrigerator costs between $230 and $300 to repair... Read more
Keeping your oven clean will help it last longer and run more efficiently. Whether you’re getting your oven prepped for the holidays or just keeping up with routine maintenance, it’s best that you clean it the right way.
Of course, not all ovens are created equal... Read more
When it comes to saving money on your gas or electric bill, few things are more effective than these recommended thermostat settings.
Some homes have multiple thermostats in multiple zones, all with unique settings and features. This guide focuses on the most basic function of all thermostats: temperature control... Read more
Your thermostat acts as the “brain” of your HVAC system, monitoring temperatures and communicating when to heat or cool your house. As a result, a failing thermostat can quickly lead to an uncomfortable living situation and costly energy bills.
Fortunately, there are plenty of thermostat troubleshooting tips you can try to resolve the most common problems... Read more
The cost to repair home appliances can quickly add up. Is it worth it to fix your old refrigerator, or would buying a new one be cheaper? Knowing the price of repair costs can help you weigh your options and make the right decision... Read more
Your dishwasher puts in a ton of work throughout the year, saving countless hours you’d otherwise spend hand washing dishes. Of course, like most home appliances, dishwashers need routine cleaning and maintenance to keep them running their best.
If you’d rather not go back to washing every plate, bowl, and spoon by hand, read on... Read more
Many find themselves confused by the differences between a home warranty and homeowners insurance. It’s not uncommon for people to ask whether a home warranty’s worth it, especially if you already have homeowner’s insurance.
The important thing is that both policies are unique in helping you save on sudden costs related to unforeseen issues... Read more
Having an at-home washing machine and clothes dryer is an incredible convenience. It sure beats going to the laundromat!
Of course, with homeownership comes routine maintenance. If you want to keep things working their best, free of mold and mildew, this includes cleaning the same appliances you use to do your laundry... Read more
For many, the dream of owning a home relies on a good mortgage. Applying for this kind of loan may seem like a daunting task, and admittedly, there are many steps involved. Fortunately, the mortgage process can be made less stressful by knowing what lenders are looking for and by being prepared... Read more
Without a doubt, toilets are among the most important elements of any home plumbing system. Of course, when there’s a problem with any toilet, this makes it all the more frustrating. When your at-home facilities give you a hard time, try these toilet repair and troubleshooting tips for a DIY fix... Read more
If you’re a first-time home buyer or don’t know much about home inspections, you’ll get the most out of one if you learn what to expect going into it.
Note that there are many different types of inspections one can request prior to closing on a home (e.g.,.. Read more
Preparing a home for showings has the potential to boost buyer interest and net you a faster sale. Keeping your house clean and finding ways to accentuate its best features can also lead buyers to see its full potential.
You want buyers to imagine themselves in the space, and there are plenty of ways to make that easier... Read more
Buying a home is the most common path to homeownership. However, building a home can be incredibly rewarding. So, how do you choose between buying a home or building your own?
Keep in mind, whether you’re buying or building, appliance and system costs add up... Read more
The autumn leaves have fallen, and the air has a bit more bite to it. You know what that means – wintertime! Is your home ready for the colder months ahead?
Whether you’re prepping your primary residence for below-freezing temps or are readying a summer home for the time you’ll be away, we’ve compiled a list of the most important DIY home inspection and maintenance tips to make sure you don’t miss a thing... Read more
A hot tub is the perfect way to relax at the end of a hard day. Of course, when you fire yours up, you don’t want that R&R disrupted by an unexpected breakdown or malfunction.
Just like pools, hot tubs require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly... Read more
If you’re a homeowner, hazardous materials are a serious concern. Whether you’re buying an older home or worry about the introduction of such materials in a newer construction, it’s important to understand what these hazards are, how they’re handled, and what you can do about them... Read more
Nothing beats a home-cooked meal, a problem with your oven can ruin even the best dinner plans. Your oven is among one of the most important appliances in your home. We’ll show you the most common problems and oven troubleshooting tips for fixing them, plus signs it’s time to call a professional... Read more
Home warranty exclusions and coverage limits can vary when comparing home warranty companies. That said, most omissions are pretty standard. Here are the most common exclusions to remember when buying a home warranty for your property... Read more
Deciding to buy a house is equally exciting and stressful. You’re on the hunt for a place to call “home” all while making a potential 30-year mortgage commitment. Once you decide you’re ready to buy, there’s a lot of consideration and prep work you need to do before you start taking home tours or visiting open houses... Read more
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or renter, dealing with the real estate market can be a stressful endeavor. That’s why you want a professional on your side. The right real estate agent or realtor can make the entire process of buying, selling, and even renting much more manageable... Read more
If you’re considering ways to save money on home maintenance and repairs, you may be wondering about the benefits of a home warranty.
In the past, we’ve briefly touched on a home warranty’s benefits while answering the question whether they’re worth it... Read more
When you want some ice, the last thing you need is an ice maker on the fritz. Ice makers are a convenient addition to any refrigerator, with many modern fridges having them installed from the get-go.
Ice maker troubleshooting can save you money in the long run and reduce headaches... Read more
Central vacuum systems are becoming more and more popular in homes. The benefits to a central vacuum system are many, but you should keep maintenance in mind, as well.
Overall, a central vacuum system can increase the resale value of your home and provide a quieter, more convenient cleaning experience... Read more
Having a well as your home’s primary water source can be great. You don’t need to rely on a municipal water utility company, which saves you money in the long run. A home well can also increase your property value, as it provides cleaner, better-tasting water... Read more
If you own your home, repairs are inevitable. Fortunately, while not everyone’s suited to handywork, there are plenty of common home repairs you can do yourself. This list includes some of the most frequent home repairs you might encounter that can easily become a money-saving DIY project... Read more
If you’re reading this, odds are summer’s just around the corner or already here. Before you kick back to enjoy the sunny days to come, DIY home inspections and maintenance will ensure your home is ready for the hotter months ahead... Read more
Septic systems are essential for homeowners living in regions without centralized sewer systems. They make it possible to treat the wastewater produced daily within a home.
As a result, septic system failures need to be taken seriously. While septic systems are expensive to repair and even more costly to replace, the right home warranty will cover its key components, protecting you and your family against unexpected financial burden... Read more
For much of the country, spring is the time of year when you’ll be firing up your lawn sprinkler system for another season of well-maintained greenery.
That’s why it’s essential to check your irrigation system regularly. This allows you to catch any leaks or other issues that might arise before you run it annually... Read more
While some things are best left to professionals, there’s plenty you can do to maintain your own HVAC system. Preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to get as many years out of it as possible. In fact, the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) considers HVAC maintenance essential... Read more
Spring is in the air! It’s time to put away the snow shovels and get out your gardening spade. But before you tend to your azaleas and bust out the feather duster for some annual spring cleaning, it’s important to check the maintenance items on this list... Read more
Unless you bought a brand new or recently renovated home, you’re likely relying on used appliances and home systems. Since the life expectancy for appliances and home systems can range from a few years to several decades, it’s common for an older home to have an equally old HVAC unit... Read more
With so many choices, home warranty comparisons seem tough – but they don’t have to be. You just need to narrow your options. Finding the right company and plan to protect your home takes a bit of time, but it’s often worth the investment... Read more
The decision to extend a home warranty is sometimes taken for granted. You might wonder, “Based on my experience this year, is it even worth extending my home warranty?”
If you’re unsure about extending your home warranty, it might come down to your expenses... Read more
We all know the importance of caring for your home. Fortunately, annual maintenance and looking out for certain warning signs will save you a lot of time and money in the long run — but not everyone considers the importance of ductwork... Read more
When people think of home warranties, they usually think of major appliances. However, the right home warranty plan can also cover all the major systems that keep your house running. This includes plumbing systems.
Leaky pipes, clogged drains, and other plumbing problems are bound to happen during your time as a homeowner... Read more
When washing machine breaks down or a water pipe bursts, having a home warranty plan can potentially save you hundreds—even thousands—in expensive repair bills.
If a major appliance or system breaks, you can make a claim on your appliance and have the home warranty company coordinate a solution... Read more
Homeowners have a lot on their plate when it comes to budgeting and protecting their homes. With that in mind, the right home warranty plan can end up saving you thousands of dollars when home appliances and systems break down. But is it a good idea to buy a home warranty, especially if you already have homeowners insurance?.. Read more
