Tip Check the cabinets under your garbage disposal frequently for leaks. Your disposal has flanges, gaskets and pipe connections which can be sources of leaks that can lead to mold and pest infestations. Routine Care Clean disposer by grinding up ice cubes The procedure sharpens the cutting blade and cleans out built-up debris and scale. […]

Cooking with a microwave oven is easy to take for granted. Just put food in and push a button, right? Or is there more to it? This article and video gives you 66 tips for the best ways to cook using your microwave. So let’s go through each of them now:   The most common […]

Ever wondered where your energy dollars go in your home? This article and video show you at-a-glance, so that you can focus on the areas that will give you the biggest bang-for-the-buck for reducing your home energy bill.   The pie chart below shows a typical home where your energy bills are going. The bigger […]

Overview Decking’ is a structure that is built on the outside of your home for walking or sitting. Care for decking also includes other structures outside of your home, such as: porches, stairs, railings with bars called ‘balustrades’, trellises, gazebos, and swing sets. Decking may be made from a variety of materials such as: softwood; […]

Idea Conduct a “do-it-yourself” audit by looking for opportunities to increase insulation around your home. Routine Care Conduct energy audit An energy audit can help find ways to save you money on your energy costs. The recommended changes from an energy audit can range from no-cost adjustments, to changes that require investments that payback savings […]

Overview Fire Extinguishers are portable canisters that are filled with special chemicals that are designed to smother certain types of fires. Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against small fires. A small fire can grow into a big fire in just a matter of seconds. There are four basic types of household Fire […]

Idea Converting or upgrading your basement into finished living space can be a great way to add usable space to your home and enhance its resale value. Routine Care Check basement for dampness, leaks, or cracks Leaks and cracks can lead to major basement damage from flooding. Timing: May (yearly) Remove debris from basement window […]

Overview A dishwasher is a kitchen appliance that is connected to the hot water supply in your home, and uses rotating water spraying arms to wash away food and grease from your dishes, pots, pans, and silverware. A dishwasher will typically have a water heater as part of it that will raise the temperature of […]

Overview If you don’t already have one, installing a chimney cap and screening will prevent rain and animals from entering your chimney. Routine Care Task Clean and inspect fireplace chimney Chimney fires can be very dangerous. This task will help prevent them. Timing: June (yearly) Check firewood supply, and order autumn delivery if needed Help ensure […]

Especially if you have seniors living in your home, consider installing safety handrails or grab bars in walk-in closets or other dressing areas.