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9 things a home warranty does not cover
01

9 things a home warranty does not cover

A home warranty is a service contract that offers financial cover for the wear and tear of a home’s appliances and systems. So, if something breaks down, the homeowner does not have to bear the cost of repairs. Rather, the warranty company will cover the expenses. But it is important to note that a home warranty does not cover all repairs. When signing the contract, one must take note of the exclusions. Cosmetic repairs Cosmetic repairs are made solely for aesthetics or to improve the home’s appearance. A home warranty does not cover such repairs. It only covers the cost of damages caused by normal wear and tear. For instance, if an oven breaks down or stops working during regular use, homeowners can expect the home warranty to cover the expenses. The contract will not cover the price of fixing scratches or dents on the oven because it counts as cosmetic repairs. Outdoor elements Another big thing a home warranty excludes is the cost of repairing fixtures outside the house. Examples are pools, spas, and septic systems. The contract may also leave out outdoor plumbing systems and their parts, like sprinklers, faucets, and valves. While most home warranty companies do not cover these things in their standard package, some offer add-ons that include outdoor elements.
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5 home appliance improvement projects with the highest ROI
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5 home appliance improvement projects with the highest ROI

When discussing home improvement projects that ensure higher returns, the focus often drifts to major changes like patio building, back grade upgrading, bathroom upscaling, renovations, decor, or structural improvements. However, enhancing appliances is another salient feature that can hike the property price. Home appliances are some of the most used items in a house, and ensuring they are modern, efficient, highly functional, and up-to-date can fetch a higher return on investment (ROI). Home appliance improvement projects that offer higher ROI Energy-efficient appliances Energy efficiency is a must in today’s world. Most home buyers are environmentally conscious and aware of their energy consumption. Data shows that electrical appliances, on average, consume around 14% of the total energy usage of a house. This includes stoves, ovens, refrigerators, dryers, and water heaters. Appliances that use energy efficiency also reduce utility bills and overall carbon footprint. These can include refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers. The easiest way to recognize an energy-efficient appliance is to look for the ENERGY STAR label. Choosing these certified appliances can be an attractive feature for eco-conscious homeowners. Smart thermostats Smart thermostats are intelligent temperature control systems where the thermostat recognizes homeowners’ overall heating and cooling preferences and adjusts the temperature accordingly.
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Guide to easy-access walk-in showers for seniors and people with disabilities
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Guide to easy-access walk-in showers for seniors and people with disabilities

Although showers are meant for relaxation, they can become safety hazards for seniors and people with disabilities. Traditional showers usually have raised edges and are enclosed with glass panels, making them difficult to use. Thankfully, innovative solutions exist! Easy-access walk-in showers eliminate the hurdles of traditional showers, making them suitable for seniors and those with disabilities. These showers increase independence and confidence and also improve the bathroom’s appearance to a great extent. Features of easy-access walk-in showers Several key features contribute to the functionality and safety of easy-access walk-in showers. Low-profile threshold or level entry As mentioned, easy-access walk-in showers have a low threshold or a completely level entry point. Unlike traditional showers, one does not have to climb over a raised edge, which minimizes the risk of falls and ensures a smooth transition into the bathing area. Slip-resistant flooring Textured or slip-resistant flooring helps one take secure steps within the shower, reducing the chance of slipping while bathing. It is an essential safety feature in easy-access walk-in showers, which makes them stand out. Grab bars Strategically placed grab bars offer additional support when entering, exiting, or maneuvering within the shower. They are securely mounted at appropriate heights to ensure one can use them whenever needed.
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9 reasons a home warranty claim might be denied
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9 reasons a home warranty claim might be denied

A home warranty is beneficial because it covers the damages to various home appliances and systems for a monthly premium. But it is worth noting that the plan is only valid if customers abide by its terms and conditions. Insurance providers may refuse a claim if someone overlooks their rules and guidelines. Knowing why a home warranty claim could be denied can help one be more careful and avoid losses. Cosmetic damage A home warranty might cover only those damages to a particular system or appliance that prevent it from functioning. The damage should be such that it renders the product inefficient. For instance, dents and scratches to the casing of an appliance are considered cosmetic damages that do not affect its working. Even blemishes on knobs, shelves, dials, and other accessories fall under this category. Individuals who want to repair cosmetic damages will have to bear the expenses themselves. Lack of maintenance Appliances and systems only qualify for home warranty coverage if serviced regularly. The lack of proper maintenance might void the warranty, even if the product is covered in the contract, and one’s claim will be denied. If an individual has maintenance records to show following a denial, they could file an appeal.
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Top 11 mistakes to avoid while getting a home loan
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Top 11 mistakes to avoid while getting a home loan

Perhaps nothing is more comforting than having one’s home to return to at the end of a tiring day and to relax with loved ones. However, buying a home in the face of inflation and economic instability is no less than a mirage for most. On the bright side, taking home loans from reliable sources can help fulfill this dream. Here are some common mistakes home buyers should avoid while availing themselves of home loans: Not checking or improving credit score One’s credit score determines any moneylender’s ability to sanction a loan. An individual’s credit score is calculated considering various criteria, including one’s payment history, credit mix, and the total amount one owes. Therefore, it is important to check one’s credit score; if the scores are low, one should take the necessary steps to enhance this score, such as paying credit card debts on time, before applying for a home loan. Not understanding one’s capability to repay the loan Often, individuals cannot return the borrowed amount because they have overestimated their capability to repay their home loan. Such challenges typically stem from miscalculating the amount payable, including the interest rates applied to the principal amount. While applying for a home loan, one should check out one’s repayment capability vis-a-vis the aggregate amount repayable and the time it would take to repay it.
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10 essential cleaning tools every home should have
06

10 essential cleaning tools every home should have

If you’re planning to move to a new place or simply want to upgrade your cleaning supplies, there are some essential tools that you should keep within reach. These items will simplify your cleaning tasks and reduce your stress levels. Whether you enjoy cleaning or not, possessing these necessary tools will enhance your productivity and speed. Moreover, they are affordable and won’t put a dent in your wallet. Read on to learn more. Microfiber dusters Cleaning delicate and breakable items such as photo frames, light fixtures, and other knick-knacks with a cloth can be tricky. If you use a cloth, you know how troublesome it is to wipe it. To avoid damaging these delicate items while cleaning, use microfiber dusters. These are made of fine microfiber strands that lift off dust easily. Moreover, these are light and fluffy. You can simply use the handle to clean off everything without moving them. So there is no risk of breaking or damaging. Pan scrapers Sometimes you may forget to grease a baking dish or set a timer while cooking. This could lead to food residue sticking to the bottom of the pan with such intensity that aggressive scrubbing also does not help.
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Top 8 carpet cleaning hacks from experts to consider
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Top 8 carpet cleaning hacks from experts to consider

Professional contractors and industry experts from the cleaning business know their way around perfectly cleaning carpets. While common folk may struggle with the common but challenging task of cleaning carpets, such professionals simply ease their way through the process without breaking a sweat. Such individuals know all the tips to get the process right. To help you ensure a clean indoor environment, some expert tips on carpet cleaning are listed below. Club soda and vinegar are effective cleaners Club soda is a surprisingly effective option to clear certain kinds of stains from carpets. However, it must be used correctly to obtain the right results. The first step of the cleaning process will require the club soda to be poured into a clean and dry cloth before blotting the stain that needs to be removed. A mix of club soda and white vinegar can be pretty effective for stains that are hard to eliminate. This mix works best when mixed with water in a handheld spray bottle and applied to the stained area. After waiting 10 to 15 minutes for the solution to seep into the carpet, one should press a dry, clean sponge on the wet area so that the stain and the solution are soaked.
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Water tank cleaning – Process and safety measures
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Water tank cleaning – Process and safety measures

Regular cleaning of home water tanks is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of the stored water. The process helps remove sediment, bacteria, and other contaminants while prolonging the tank’s lifespan. This article will present a comprehensive, step-by-step process for cleaning your home water tank. Additionally, we will discuss important safety measures to consider throughout the cleaning process, ensuring the well-being of yourself and your household. Step-by-step process to clean a water tank Here are the steps to clean a water tank: Conduct a thorough inspection of the water tank Before initiating the cleaning process, it is important to assess the condition of your water tank. The inspection can include the tank’s depth, the debris’s location, dirt and other sediments that need to be cleared, the tank’s design, and its overall condition. You can also go over the tank and look for potentially risky cleaning areas. A risk assessment helps avoid mishaps and ensures a smoother cleaning process. Disinfect the tools Cleaning a tank may require using many tools, including bleach, a mop, a vacuum that can be either dry or wet, and a pressure washer or pump if needed. These tools may have been stored for an extended period and are likely to harbor bacteria.
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13 common mistakes first-time home buyers should avoid
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13 common mistakes first-time home buyers should avoid

Nothing is more satisfying than having one’s own comfortable space to return to at the end of the day. However, in today’s world, characterized by unprecedented population growth and rising real-estate prices, buying a home remains a distant dream for many. Furthermore, several individuals trying to buy homes are unprepared for certain challenges they may face. Keep reading to learn about common mistakes home buyers should avoid while investing in real estate. Exceeding one’s set budget limit Often, home buyers get carried away by the additional amenities and space offered by properties beyond their budget range and face the consequences of huge EMI installments later. While expensive houses may offer more facilities, home buyers must stick to their budget ranges for optimal financial planning and to avoid debt traps. Not being pre-approved Being pre-approved to buy a home can significantly boost one’s house hunt. It can help buyers understand what denomination of the total house price they can afford and to what extent they would require help. Buyers can also determine a budget range by getting pre-approval from mortgage lenders. This process helps them look for affordable homes and stay within their set limit. Thus, although a pre-approval is not a final mortgage approval, it gives buyers a sense of security and increases their appeal among sellers.
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5 common gardening mistakes to avoid
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5 common gardening mistakes to avoid

Gardening isn’t something you get right on the first try. It requires some trial and error to perfect. Sometimes, you might find a plant doing poorly in one spot of your yard but thriving in another. While you might need more than a couple of tries to get things right, you must first learn about the common gardening mistakes to avoid. Luckily, most of these are easy to step over. Skipping compost Plants need nutrients while growing, and the best way to supply them is by adding compost. By skipping compost, you’re falling prey to one of the most common gardening mistakes that should be avoided. Compost not only provides plants with nutrients but also adds moisture and improves the soil’s drainage. Ignoring pest control Pests are always waiting for a chance to make quick work of your garden. So, you must find a way to stop them without using poisonous chemicals. One solution is to grow disease and pest-resistant plants that attract birds and insects that eat destructive pests. You can use some non-toxic traps and sprays occasionally. Poor watering habits It’s impossible to ignore how many of us water our plants and gardens at the wrong time. If you want the lawn to retain moisture, water it last thing at night or first thing in the morning.
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5 smart ways of using tablet computers
Tablets

5 smart ways of using tablet computers

You see tablet computers everywhere. More and more people are now moving toward tablets in offices, coffee shops, homes, and even schools. This is because they offer more power and uses than a smartphone and better portability than a desktop or even a laptop. Tablets have many more uses than simply checking your emails or browsing social media. Here are some interesting ways to find more uses for your tablet computer: Second screen Some people like to work on two screens at a time due to the demand of their work. This also enhances productivity and cuts down on time. It is easy to mirror your Android to another Android or even a computer. To use your tablet as an extended display, you need to install an application on your computer and connect the tablet to it using a USB cable or Wi-Fi. Some of the best app options to do this include Spacedesk, Google Remote Desktop, iDisplay, Duet Display, etc. As a remote to control electronics Tablet computers can be easily used to control your electronics. A tablet is larger than a remote and much easier to find and operate with better features. You can control your PC and television with it. It can also dim your home lights, open your garage door, and operate your smart fridge and washing machine. For instance, if you have a Sony Smart TV, you can use the TV Sideview application for your Apple and Android systems. E-Reader If you are an avid reader and have an old tablet, you don’t need to purchase a new e-reader. Your tablet can easily be used as an e-reader to browse your favorite books, magazines, comic strips, and even news applications. Since tablet screens have more glare, we suggest getting an anti-glare film on the screen.
Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia
health

Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia

Potassium is an essential nutrient that allows your body to function optimally. A meal plan rich in potassium allows proper nerve function and regulates your heartbeat. However, certain conditions such as kidney diseases and consuming food rich in potassium excessively may increase its levels in your bloodstream leading to a condition known as hyperkalemia . Let’s look at foods you should limit to keep your potassium within normal levels. Bananas The first food that comes to mind when people think of potassium sources is bananas. One medium-sized banana contains almost 422 mg of potassium. Though it would take a lot of bananas to cause an overdose of potassium, if you are also eating other foods rich in potassium, it will lead to excessive potassium levels in your blood, which in turn, will trigger hyperkalemia . Tomato Sauce and Paste Raw tomatoes contain a decent amount of potassium. One medium tomato has about 292 mg of potassium. Concentrated forms of tomatoes, such as sauces, salsa, paste, puree, etc., contain even higher amounts of potassium. For instance, a small cup of tomato sauce contains almost 728 mg potassium. So, it is advised to skip tomato sauce and opt for alternatives such as basil or roasted red peppers. Milk If you have been advised a low potassium meal plan, you must avoid milk or at least its consumption needs to be reduced. A cup of whole milk contains around 350 mg of potassium. The lower the amount of fat in milk, the higher the potassium content. While you may have a small serving of milk daily, it should not exceed 300 ml. It means avoiding milk and dairy products such as buttermilk, yogurt, milk-based sweets, ice creams, and other desserts. Oranges and Orange Juice Oranges have a very high potassium content and are best avoided if diagnosed with hyperkalemia .
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer
Tech

7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer

With all the options of computer brands available in the market today, you might think it is effortless to pick up one. However, with so many choices, it can get tricky as buying a computer is a hefty, long-term investment. That’s why you should be aware of some common buying mistakes people would make while purchasing this device. And so, here are a few things to avoid before you invest in a computer : Buying without knowing your needs Never buy a computer just because everyone is buying it or there’s a lot of hype around it. While you may want to prioritize aesthetics and popularity, you need to identify your need for a computer and its software . Make a list of all the features that you would need and get the computer configured accordingly. Unfamiliar with different software programs Not knowing the right software may cost you heavily. Purchasing expensive software with a long list of features may not be the best thing to do if half of these features don’t even apply to your work. Next, know how to install and use the software. You also need to know if the software is protected against bugs with an antivirus program and consider the after-sale service of the software. Not considering different operating systems There are four primary operating systems you should know – Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Linux. While technology has made it easier to switch between these operating systems, you may often find one or more applications not working on alternative systems. So, if you have an expensive software installed, check with your developer if it will be compatible with the OS you plan to get. Not accounting for other computer costs A common mistake made by many while purchasing a computer is not accounting for other costs that are part of the bundle.