There is no telling when home appliances will malfunction, or systems will unexpectedly falter. This makes having a safety net for these appliances a necessity. This is where home warranty plans come into play. These plans are designed to provide financial security to homeowners. They offer a buffer against the inevitable wear and tear on property. The average coverage cost of the home warranty plans can amount to $250 to $600 annually. What is a home warranty? A home warranty is a contract of residential services that covers the cost of maintaining appliances and household items for a specific period of time. It is important to note that a home warranty plan or home appliance warranty plan is different from a homeowner’s insurance or structural warranty plan. It is often advised to buy a home warranty plan when purchasing an old property, especially when there is little information available about the appliances. How does it work? As the name suggests, a home appliance warranty covers damaged appliances and system repairs. The warranty company works with a network of home service providers. Once a claim has been received, the warranty company sends one of the providers to assess the damage. This partner provides a report to the company. What is covered? The report received by the warrantor helps determine the potential cause of the damage and the extent to which it has affected the appliance. The company will then confirm whether or not its contract provides coverage for the kind of damage suffered by the system or appliance. If the claim is approved, the warrantor sends back its partner professional for the repair and replacement. Most home warranties provide coverage for stoves, water heaters, and refrigerators. They may also cover systems like electrical, HVAC, and plumbing. Before signing up, one should check the plan to see if it also covers garage door openers.

A home warranty is a service agreement that pays for the maintenance and repair of specific home systems and appliances that could malfunction due to normal wear and tear. It can help assure homeowners that unplanned repairs won’t be expensive. However, making a home warranty claim can be difficult for some, and the claim may get rejected. Here are the steps for filing a home warranty claim and what to do if it gets rejected. Steps for filing home warranty claims Review your contract The first step in filing a home warranty claim is to review your contract. Check to see which appliances and systems are covered by your home warranty and which are not. Contact the provider of your home warranty Contact your home warranty provider when you need to make a claim. Most home warranty providers offer a customer service hotline that is open 24/7 to help you with your claim. Set up a service call After you’ve reported the problem, the home warranty provider will arrange a service call with a qualified and insured technician after you’ve reported the problem. Service visit During the service call, the technician will identify the issue and propose a fix. If the item can be fixed, the technician will immediately start the repairs. Payment If your home warranty contract covers the problem, you will only be charged the service fee, usually between $50 and $100. If the contract does not cover the problem, you will be responsible for the full cost of the repair or replacement. Reasons for rejection of home warranty claim Unfortunately, a home warranty can be denied for a variety of reasons. Thus, it is imperative to read the contract’s terms and conditions to determine which appliances and systems are covered. If your warranty claim gets denied, you can consider filing an appeal with the service provider.

Major retailers offer huge reductions on appliances on Cyber Monday. Whether you want to get a refrigerator, microwave, or coffee maker, discounts are available on old and new models from various retailers. If you are looking for deal predictions for the upcoming Cyber Monday sales event, then you are at the right place. Given below are the top 20 deals from last year’s shopping season. 2022 is expected to bring similar offers on these appliances. Previous Cyber Monday appliance deals to note While 2022’s Cyber Monday deals haven’t been released yet, knowing about last year’s offers is likely to give you an idea of what brands have the best discounts. You can also note down some top appliance models and know what to grab first. Refrigerator LG 20.2 cu ft Top-freezer refrigerator This 20.2 cu ft top-freezer refrigerator was available at a discount of $90 at Best Buy. The mega-store is sure to have incredible deals on LG and other brands on Cyber Monday 2022. Samsung RF28T5001SR/AA Samsung’s premium three-door refrigerator with a capacity of 28 cu ft is designed to give any kitchen a modern appeal. At Best Buy, this refrigerator was on sale for $1299, which was $500 off its regular price. Whirlpool 25 cu ft side by side refrigerator This side-by-side refrigerator from Whirlpool comes with an ice and water dispenser. There was a $160 discount on its regular price of $1599. It may be on discount again this year, or the brand may choose to offer big sales on other models. Washers LG 4.5 cu ft High-Efficiency Smart Front Load Washer You could save $300 on this smart front-load washer from LG. While it retails at $1049, this stackable washer was available for $749.99 at Best Buy. Samsung 5.0 cu ft high-efficiency top load washer This fantastic appliance allows you to fit more in every load and cut down on your laundry time.

It is important to get home appliances right the first time around. It isn’t something you can re-purchase in mere weeks or months if you get a sub-par quality product. Therefore, it is important to put in some thought and research for dishwashers as well. Read on to know the top three dishwasher brands you can choose from in 2021. Bosch Bosch has been a reliable brand and a popular choice among many homeowners. Their appliances deliver quality results without much hoopla about the operating process. The brand has robust products designed to make everyday life easier, right from hand blenders to dishwashers. If you are looking for something with a large capacity, short cycles, and is simple to use, Bosch might appeal to you. The brand has dishwashers that are easy to use and operate peacefully. Some of these are even designed to stop working as soon as it detects a leak, which is a plus point. No one wants to wake up to a flooded kitchen! LG LG dishwashers have scored well overall for washing hard-to-clean dishes. If you are someone who is looking for a range of appliances that do better than the general lot, LG is the budget-friendly brand for you. The newer models also contain superior technology that cleans crusty kitchenware and hard-to-reach corners. It also helps in drying out the dishes without leaving any water stains. The dishwasher can be an addition to the smart home equipment list and will notify you via your phone when the cycle is over. For higher-priced models, keep an eye on LG dishwashers and appliances sales this festive season. Whirlpool If you are after something that does not break your bank account but gets the job done, then Whirlpool is the brand for you. Whirlpool offers affordable and functional home appliances.

Today, most American households have a vacuum cleaner. But not everyone knows how to use the appliance properly. Many people misuse their vacuum cleaners, which interferes with the machine’s ability to clean properly and causes it to stop working prematurely. Fortunately, most of these mistakes are avoidable, regardless of the type of vacuum cleaner one owns. This article points out some common mistakes vacuum owners make and explains how to avoid them. Not emptying the dust bag on time If you operate a vacuum cleaner while its dust container is full, the appliance will not pick up dirt and dust as effectively as it used to. Plus, the airflow within the vacuum will get restricted, causing the motor to overheat, decreasing the appliance’s longevity. To avoid this, empty the dust bag well before it’s full or after every use. Incorrectly assuming the motor is broken If your vacuum cleaner suddenly stops working while you’re cleaning, that doesn’t necessarily mean its motor is gone for good. Oftentimes, vacuum cleaners shut off automatically as soon as the motor overheats to prevent a hazardous incident. The motor usually overheats when the dust bag is full, or hair or fiber gets entangled in the brush roll. So, you need to empty the bag or clean the brush roll and try restarting. Vacuuming up wrong objects Bear in mind that vacuum cleaners are typically made for cleaning everyday dirt and dust. If you use it to remove larger objects in your way, like a penny, screw, or a piece of stone, the appliance may get damaged. Also, avoid running regular vacuums over water or other liquids, as it may cause electrocution and severe damage to the appliance. Delaying or skipping maintenance To ensure your vacuum cleaner runs smoothly for multiple years, you must invest time in maintenance, including emptying the dirt container, cleaning the brush roll, and washing or replacing filters.

Appliances are typically hot-selling on Black Friday , and this year is no exception. Shoppers can find excellent bargains on name-brand items at shops such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot, whether they want to upgrade an old appliance or add to their collection. Here’s a list of what was on offer last year and what you can expect this time. Read on to learn about Black Friday deals on refrigerators, ovens, coffee machines, and more. Refrigerators Samsung’s Black Friday sale will let you save approximately $150 or even more! You can get a price match guarantee at Best Buy on some of the models of the brand or even shop on other third-party websites. You could also make use of LG’s Black Friday sale on the French Door Smart Wi-Fi Enabled refrigerator to save about $500. Also keep an eye out and get a price match guarantee of $2,099.99 at Best Buy. Dishwashers Take advantage of the expected Black Friday price on Samsung’s StormWashTM to save $100 and get a price match guarantee at Best Buy. The GE Adora Dishwasher 120-Volt with 3rd Rack and 48 dBA might be on sale for $899, a $100 savings off the regular price of $999 at Home Depot. Ovens Best Buy’s Black Friday sale price for Whirlpool’s Freestanding Electric Convection Oven with Self-High Heat Cleaning Method – Stainless steel is expected to be $989.99. If you’re looking for a new oven, consider the Farberware microwave, that could be priced around $71.99 at Kohl’s. This holiday season, you could get the KitchenAid Digital oven with no flip air fryer for $189 instead of the regular price of $219.99. Washers and dryers Take advantage of LG’s Black Friday sale on top load washers. Stores like Best Buy could save you approximately $120 and offer a price match guarantee.

A water heater, an essential appliance in most homes, provides hot water for various tasks such as bathing, cleaning, and cooking. However, like any other appliance, a water heater may experience problems that may require timely repair. Unfortunately, many homeowners make common mistakes during water heater repair that cost them a lot of money. Here are a few such repairing mistakes that one can avoid to extend the longevity and safety of the device. Not turning off the power supply Before one starts any water heater repair, ensure that one has turned off the power supply. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or major injury. Not draining the tank before repair If one needs to repair the water heater tank, it’s crucial to drain it first. This process can remove all the sediment build-up for proper maintenance. Ignoring leaks If one notices any leaks in the water heater, it’s essential to fix them as soon as possible. Ignoring leaks can result in severe water loss. Not checking warranty Most warranties cover repairs and replacements for a certain period. Failing to check the same can result in unnecessary expenses that could have been otherwise covered. Not replacing the anode rod The anode rod is a vital component of the water heater that protects the tank from corrosion. Failure to replace the anode rod can cause the tank to rust, resulting in costly repairs or replacement. Over-tightening connections Over-tightening connections during water heater repair can cause the fittings to crack or break, leading to leaks and other issues. Not checking the thermostat The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of the water heater. Failure to check the thermostat can result in the appliance not working correctly, leading to higher energy bills. Not leaving space around the heater Not leaving enough space around the water heater can cause overheating and potential fire hazards.

If you purchased or are planning to purchase a home, you may have wondered what a home warranty covers. A home warranty can save you money when any systems and appliances break down, preserving your home and budget. However, it doesn’t cover every element of your home. Some aspects that a home warranty doesn’t cover, like leaky roofs and cosmetic damage, are listed below. Scroll down to uncover the limitations of a home warranty plan. Walls, doors, and windows A home warranty usually doesn’t cover walls, windows, and doors as they are considered structural elements. However, based on the age of your home, these items will be covered by a homeowners insurance policy or builder’s warranty. Cosmetic damage If the damage, like scratches or dents, is caused by natural wear and tear over time, it is the homeowners’ responsibility, not that of the warranty provider. Pest damage Home warranties are not designed to cover and repair/ replace the damages caused by pest infestations like rodents or termites. Leaking roofs A home warranty doesn’t cover leaking roofs since this is a structural problem. Hot tubs and swimming pools Pools and hot tubs are some things not covered under a home warranty, but certain companies might extend their coverage at an additional price. Sprinkler and septic systems Water-related systems, such as sprinklers and septic systems, are excluded, but a manufacturer or installer can guarantee their protection. Installation of new equipment When you replace a home appliance, it may necessitate structural changes according to new building codes. However, home warranties won’t cover any modifications when installing new replacement equipment. Pre-existing problems Home warranties are unsuitable for systems and appliances with existing issues before you get the coverage. Typically when you sign the Home Warranty Service Agreement, these elements should be in good condition.

With Black Friday sales just a stone’s throw away, now is the perfect time to get shopping lists in order. Brands are gearing up to offer attractive product deals and discounts, making home renovation and upgrades more accessible for many. One of these pricey investments is a quality washer and dryer. Based on last year’s Black Friday sales offerings, here are the top 10 best deals customers can expect on Black Friday 2023: Stackable washer and dryer sets Stackable or front-load washers and dryers have controls and doors on the front of the appliance. These can be placed side to side or on the other. This option is convenient for many laundry rooms and homes with limited space. Here are some notable deals on washers and dryers from last year’s Black Friday sale: 1. Last year, Samsung offered their extra-large capacity washer and dryer set with innovative technology for $1598. This was an $800 discount markdown from their original price, $2398. 2. Another great deal came from LG. The brand offered one of their best-selling washer and dryer sets for $1600, a 33% discount from their original price of $2400. Stacked laundry centers These are also an excellent option for homes with limited space. They are generally small enough to fit inside a closet. Unlike stackable washers and dryers, these cannot be stacked side to side, as it is a single appliance. 3. LG offered a staggering discount on stacked laundry centers for Black Friday last year. Typically priced at $2299, buyers could grab their stacked laundry solution at a discounted price of $1698 at major retailers like Home Depot. Washer and dryer combos Unlike stackable or stacked laundry options, these washer and dryer combos combine washing and drying functions into one machine. These can significantly reduce the space and money spent on laundry options.

The excitement for shopping seasons tends to build for weeks in anticipation of the sales, and Black Friday 2023 is no different. Aside from getting lucrative deals on items like iPads and television sets, one can also get incredible discounts on home appliances. Things like ovens, blenders, juicers, and microwaves have made lives easier and more efficient, and it is worthwhile to keep an eye out for discounts on them this Black Friday. Coffee makers Keurig Keurig coffee makers are available in several sizes with easy-to-use controls. Last Black Friday, several Keurig products were available at significant discounts. For example, the compact Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker was available at $30 off its original price, while the Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker stole the show at a whopping 50% discount. Ninja Ninja’s coffee makers contain a paper filter kit, a K-cup pod adapter, a Ninja smart scoop, etc. Based on last year’s deals, one can expect discounts on popular Ninja coffee maker models, including the Ninja DualBrew Cofee Maker and the Ninja Hot and Cold Brewing System this Black Friday. Nespresso Nespresso coffee machines leverage centrifusion technology, which helps closely monitor extraction levels. Last Black Friday, shoppers bagged Nespresso’s premium coffee makers at lucrative discounts. For example, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Coffee and Espresso Machine was available at 26-30% off at Target. Microwaves Whirlpool Whirlpool’s microwaves contain presets to reheat different types of foods within no time. They also have dishwasher-safe turntable plates for hassle-free washing up. Whirlpool’s stainless steel over-the-range microwave was available at up to $219 off on the original price at Lowe’s and up to $296 off on the original price at Walmart during Black Friday 2022. Toshiba Toshiba offers a wide range of countertop multi-function and stainless-steel microwaves with digital displays. Toshiba’s microwaves were offered at considerable discounts during Black Friday last year.

In the realm of cleaning, paper towels have long been a trusted companion, known for their absorbent prowess and versatility. However, certain items and surfaces necessitate caution, where the use of paper towels might lead to unintended consequences. While these sheets are stalwarts in many cleaning tasks, they aren’t universally suited for every challenge. By understanding the limitations of paper towels, individuals can safeguard their belongings and achieve more effective cleaning outcomes. Electronics and screens Electronics like smartphones, tablets, and computer monitors require extra care since they come with sensitive screens. Paper towels can leave behind fibers and lint, obstructing the view and potentially scratching the surface. For these sensitive screens, it’s best to use a microfiber cloth specifically designed for electronics, which is gentle yet effective in removing smudges and fingerprints. Stainless steel appliances While stainless steel appliances provide a sleek and modern aesthetic to kitchens, they can be prone to visible scratches if cleaned with paper towels. To maintain that polished look, it’s recommended to use a soft cloth or a microfiber cloth dampened with a mixture of water and a mild detergent. This will help avoid unsightly scratches and keep the appliances looking their best. Eyeglasses Cleaning eyeglasses with paper towels can lead to micro-abrasions on the lenses, affecting clarity and potentially damaging any special coatings. To ensure optimal vision and preserve the quality of the eyewear, use a microfiber cleaning cloth specifically designed for glasses, along with a lens cleaning solution. This combination effectively removes smudges and maintains the integrity of the lenses. Fine glassware These delicate items require special attention to prevent damage. Paper towels, though seemingly soft, can leave behind tiny scratches on the surfaces of fine glassware. To keep them pristine, wash them by hand with a gentle dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge or cloth.

Water leaks often lead to costly repairs and potential damage to property, in addition to water wastage. While some leaks result from common causes like damaged pipes or fixtures, a few unexpected factors can contribute to leakage, catching one off guard. Regular maintenance, inspections, and vigilance can help avoid the financial and structural damage that often accompanies such leaks. Additionally, recognizing the following causes of leaks can help prevent such damages: 1. High water pressure High water pressure might seem like a good thing, but it can actually put significant stress on the plumbing system. Excessively high pressure can lead to leaks at joints and connections, as well as cause damage to fixtures and appliances. To prevent this, homeowners should consider installing a pressure regulator to regulate the water pressure and ensure it does not exceed safe levels. 2. Clogged gutters and downspouts Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and penetrate a home’s foundation. This, in turn, can cause basement leaks and damage to walls. So, regular gutter maintenance and cleanup can help prevent clogs. 3. Corrosion Rusting and other types of corrosion can weaken pipes and fixtures over time, leading to water leaks. Corrosion can be a result of prolonged exposure to household chemicals, varying pH levels of water, or the type of materials used. Installing corrosion-resistant pipes or using water treatment solutions can help prevent this issue. 4. Tree roots Tree roots are a surprising but not uncommon cause of water leaks. As trees grow, their roots can push against underground pipes. This can lead to a drop in the water pressure, wet patches, sinkholes, or cracks and blockages. Here, one can keep an eye out for trees growing very close to the home and check for intruding roots to prevent any leaks. 5. Shifting foundation A home’s foundation can settle and shift over time, which can put pressure on water pipes running through the foundation.