Our Blog – Happy Home Tips
Don’t Forget Your Drain During Spring Cleaning
The holidays are over, and the new year is finally here! As you put away decorations and prepare for spring cleaning, have you also thought about drain cleaning? Likely, that’s the last thing on your mind. But it shouldn’t be something you forget to do! That’s because prevention is key to keeping your drains free
How to Change Thermostat Batteries
It’s a universal truth that all thermostat batteries need to be changed or charged at some point. But don’t worry — you’ll need a few minutes, new batteries, and one or two standard household tools for most thermostats. Here are the most popular types of thermostats and how to change their batteries. How to Tell
The Furnace Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
If you’ve ever looked at a furnace pilot light, it’s almost amazing how such a small flame can be responsible for heating an entire house. But they can and do, unless the light goes out and needs to be relit. Here we’ll discuss reasons why the pilot light keeps going out, how to relight it,
The Best Pet Friendly Plants
Pets and plants don’t always go together, unless you keep pet-friendly plants in your home. Many pets are curious and mischievous, a combination that can work well with these plants in your home. African Violet With its deep purple petals, the African violet adds a pop of color to any home. Plus, this flowering plant
Should Air Vents be High or Low?
Most homeowners don’t give the placement of the air vents a second thought. But, these openings are usually in particular places for a reason — optimal airflow. Here we’ll discuss what air vents are found in the home, the pros and cons of vents on the floor and ceiling, and whether the placement matters. Air
My Water Heater is Getting too Hot
Hot water is often underappreciated in a home until you turn on the faucet, shower, or bathtub and there is none. But is too hot water a problem? Yes. Here we’ll go over a few reasons why your water heater is getting too hot and how to change the temperature on the thermostat. Reasons your
9 Reasons Your AC Stopped Working Over Winter
You’re not alone if you’re gearing up for air conditioner season. These stalwart appliances give us a cool reprieve indoors while the outside temperatures soar. But if you have an older AC, it might not work as expected when turned on. We’ll explore nine reasons it might stop working over the winter, plus four ways
Is It Safe to Drink Hard Water?
It might not have the most palate-pleasing taste, but it is safe to drink hard water. This naturally occurring type of water affects most of the United States, with the highest concentration in the Midwest and Southwestern states and Florida. Here we’ll discuss what hard water is and its cause, why it is seen as
What is Refrigerant and Why is it in Air Conditioners?
Millions of homeowners rely on AC refrigerant inside their air conditioners, even if they don’t know how refrigerant works. Here we’ll discuss what refrigerant is, how it works, four common types, and signs your AC may have a refrigerant leak. What is Refrigerant? It’s the chemical that provides a cooling effect in many common appliances,
If You’re Cold, They’re Cold – Bring Your Plants Inside for the Winter
Bringing your plants inside for the winter is essential to their overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, winter can wreak havoc on your plants and even kill them—even in Southern California, but there are simple steps you can take to help prevent this. First and foremost, bring your plants inside for the winter. When to Bring
6 Space Heater Safety Tips
Space heaters are an important part of many households during the cooler months. They make it possible to keep your home warm without turning up the thermostat. However, because space heaters use a lot of energy, you need to be careful how you use them. When not used properly, they can cause fires, hazards, or
How to Troubleshoot Common Dishwasher Problems
Dishwashers are fantastic appliances that can save you a lot of time and stress. But not all dishwashers are created equal. While they can provide many years of dependable service if they are correctly maintained, there is always a risk that your appliance might need repair. But the good news is that dishwashers are actually
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
The water heater is one of your home’s most important major appliances. Without it, you’ll be left in the cold (water). Just like everything else, all water heaters have a lifespan. Meaning you’ll have to replace yours someday. It is estimated that you should replace your water heater every 10 to 15 years. However, the
Are These Five Mistakes Driving up Your Heating Bill
If you’re like the rest of us, your energy bills go way up during the winter. Of course, you want your home to be toasty in winter, but energy costs can throw a wrench into your plans. However, it’s possible to lower your energy bills with a few simple tweaks. Check if you’re making these
Mind Your Furnace When Decluttering and Organizing the Attic
You’re riding a wave of decluttering and organizing. Everything you own has been cast into boxes to be sorted, donated, or discarded. It feels good to tidy everything, but there’s one area left to tackle – the attic. Before starting, look at these tips to help your attic organization go smoothly while leaving room for
