Tag Archives: appliances

Jan13

4 Tips For Creating An Eco-Friendly Household   

Posted on by
Standard
4 Tips For Creating An Eco-Friendly Household   

With increasing concerns about the environment, many are finding ways to take action so they can help save mother Earth. This includes looking into ways to be more aware of how they can help, what companies are doing, how to buy, how to better recycle, and being energy-efficient at home. The smallest of changes can make a massive difference if it’s all combined!

Not only are these changes great for the environment, but it’s also good for your wallet too. There is this idea that you need to be rich in order to be sustainable but that’s far from the case. Living a sustainable lifestyle can not only be incredibly cheap, but it can save you a lot of money each year. These are some ways that you can create a more eco-friendly space right at home:

Check to see if there are any cracks that need to be sealed:

You want to make sure that your home is well insulated, especially during the colder months. Right before fall or winter hits, you’ll want to do a thorough inspection at home to see if there are any cracks that need to be sealed up in your doorways, window seals, vents. It’s also best to take a look at your doors and windows to see how energy efficient they are. Something such as a bend window is known for being majorly energy-efficient and those can save you a lot of money each year in electricity. Sealing up your cracks and changing out the doors and windows are also great for boosting your property value as well.

Take a look at energy-efficient swaps at home:

There are plenty of appliances that can be swapped out for something more efficient. This can include checking out bathroom appliances such as low-flow toilets, showers, and sinks but it can go far beyond that as well. Did you know that your light bulbs could save you money? There are plenty of energy-efficient light bulbs on the market that can help you out. Even looking into Star Energy appliances for your kitchen or laundry room can make a massive impact.

Buy secondhand:

One way to avoid getting things thrown into a landfill would be to check the secondhand market first such as visiting flea markets, thrift shops, and going on websites such as Craigslist, eBay, or even Facebook Marketplace. If you’re unable to find a secondhand version of the product you’re looking for, then you can buy it brand new. We all know that the secondhand option will be much cheaper!

Start a garden:

Even modern apartments will have a space to do some gardening. Gardening is not only a way to save on groceries, but improving that green thumb of yours can help offset your carbon footprint. Having a garden is wonderful for bees and other pollinators such as butterflies too. There are so many perks to having a garden, that it can even boost the curb appeal of your property.

But what if you don’t have space for a garden? What if you don’t have a lawn? Even if you don’t have adequate spacing, you can make room for growing some produce or flowers. Many apartments will have balconies or a large table will do too. Your plants don’t necessarily need to be outside in order to thrive. If you have some space next to a window, that will be just as adequate.

Helping the environment and saving some money is the ultimate win/win and there is no better time than the present to get started!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Jan11

6 Features You Need In A Modern Apartment   

Posted on by
Standard
6 Features You Need In A Modern Apartment   

If you’re looking for a new modern apartment, there are some features that you shouldn’t skimp out on to make your place the ultimate place to be. Modern means comfort as well as aesthetic so look out for the following during your apartment hunt:

Built-In Closets:

When you live in an apartment, built-in closets are important. Not only are they space-saving, but they also help to declutter your home. What’s more, you don’t have to go to the expense of buying your own shelving and chests of drawers – it’s all done for you. The best built-in closets have sliding doors for extra space-saving and mirrored surfaces for extra primping. Lots of storage options tends to be high on the list for what people want when moving into a new apartment. When you enter a search for “Studio Apartments in Downtown Los Angeles” (or your local area), you will be able to see pictures or virtual tours of the properties. Take the time to look through them thoroughly so you can focus on the locations with your preferred storage options.

Ice Maker Refrigerator:

Most apartments come with kitchen appliances as standard. However, the vast majority of them do not have ice makers. While having an ice maker might not sound like an essential feature, you’d be surprised how often you need it. Whenever you entertain or make yourself a cold drink in the summer months, it comes in handy. Don’t overlook it.

A Balcony:

Most apartments near me, especially the new ones, have balconies. These days, they’re almost standard. The reason for this is simple: people want outdoor spaces where they can lounge in the summer and enjoy themselves. They don’t want to feel claustrophobic while looking at the fine weather through the window passing them by.

In some situations, you may also be able to make do with a Juliet balcony. Just make sure that it is safe, particularly if you have kids.

A Walk-In Shower:

When it comes to shower facilities, modern apartments can be quite appealing. That’s because many of them are now offering buyers walk-in showers. These get rid of the shower cubicles of old and replace them with a more natural, functional design. They’re particularly helpful for anyone living with a disability. The way they work is pretty simple too. Instead of using a cubicle to create a drain for the water, walk-in showers use the entire floor of the room. The whole thing is graded downwards towards a central drain that scoots all of the wastewater off into the plumbing. Most come with non-slip flooring too, helping you to keep your balance.

If you are updating your apartments for rent, replacing a bath with a shower is a great place to start. It will instantly modernize the bathroom, offer some additional space, and fits in better with the on the go lifestyle of your tenants.

modern1

^^^ Unsplash Image

Programmable Lighting:

If you’re buying a modern apartment, it will almost certainly come with programmable lighting. This feature allows you to change the color and intensity of the light with the press of a button. Programmable lighting can also be a lot of fun. You can create sequences that dance through different types of light or react to the music you’re playing.

Hard Floors:

While carpeted apartments can be nice, you’re often better off with hard floors. They’re easier to clean and far less prone to damage which could affect your deposit. Of course, if you want it to feel soft under foot, you can always put down rugs. Just remember to attach sticky tacks to the back so that they don’t slip and slide across the floor.

modern2

^^^ Unsplash Image

A modern apartment should include all of the extra touches that make your living experience more enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to shop around until you find the place perfect for you!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Dec23

Don’t Wait To Fix These Home Problems

Posted on by
Standard
Don’t Wait To Fix These Home Problems

There are some problems in the home that are things you can hold off on like installing new flooring, replacing old furniture, and the like. While remodeling is fun, it’s something that you can postpone until a more appropriate time or a bigger budget. However, there are some problems that can happen in your home that shouldn’t wait to be fixed, like these examples:

Pest Issues:

Problems with pests both inside and out should always be tended to immediately because quick action will prevent the problem from getting worse. And, holding off can cause the situation to spiral out of control rapidly from a health and safety perspective for you and your family. If you’re having an issue with bugs, mice, or other critters call in a local expert to help deal with the infestation in the most humane way possible.

Leaks:

Similarly to pest problems, a leak in the roof or a pipe is something that can get out of hand quickly. It is a money drainer considering the heat, cold, or water that the house is losing, not to mention the cost of fixing the water damaged areas. Unless you are handy, this is also something that should be dealt with by local experts for a fast and effective way to fix the problem.

Appliance Repair:

Appliances are something that we all take for granted until they stop working. We never truly know how lucky we are for a dishwasher or a washer and dryer until you’re spending evenings washing dishes by hand or at the laundromat. It is important to schedule timely dishwasher repair services before it disrupts life routine. If any of your appliances appear to be on the fritz, schedule a repair appointment today to continue on with convenience and safety.

Windows & Doors:

If your windows or doors leave your home feeling drafty, it’s time to look at an upgrade. Can you imagine your savings in heating and air conditioning once these fixtures are more secure? It can also help prevent illness from the weather being let in. Not only will it keep the cold and warmth inside more effectively, but it will also double as a way to boost your home security, making it a win/win situation.

If you are having any issues with the problems above, it’s important to get on top of them before they cause even more headache. And, as always, if you are unsure of anything, then leave it to the professionals!

Dec21

Updating Your Kitchen For A Fresh Look

Posted on by
Standard
Updating Your Kitchen For A Fresh Look

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a freshly renovated kitchen, is there? So if you’re looking to give your kitchen an updated feel without the hassle of a full renovation, then this blog post is for you. We’ll be talking about how to make those changes that will have the biggest impact on your home and help you get started with a budget-friendly remodel:

New kitchen countertop:

The first thing you should consider when renovating your kitchen is a new countertop. While it may seem like a small detail, there’s no denying that this subtle change can go a long way in enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of your home. New granite or quartz counters will give off an elegant appearance while creating a smooth surface for cooking tasks such as chopping vegetables or preparing snacks.

Lighter colors make rooms appear more spacious so try experimenting with different shades to see what works best with your existing decor scheme. If choosing darker tones, then keep accessories on top limited to stainless steel appliances and white dinnerware sets for clean contrast against the dark finish. If you are having a difficult time selecting a color scheme with the options before you, you might want to consider doing custom countertops instead. This will ensure that it is a perfect match to your kitchen and tastes.

Throw away old cookware and cutlery:

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make during a kitchen update is adding in new appliances and furnishings while forgetting about their old cookware. If your pots, pans, and other utensils are on their last legs, then now’s the time to upgrade them for something more functional.

Throw away any broken or scratched items and get rid of those you never use anymore (do they really belong in a box at the back of your cupboard?). Don’t let yourself be tempted by cheap promotional deals; instead, invest in some long lasting, high quality cooking essentials such as stainless steel frying pans, cast iron skillets, copper saucepans, and ceramic knives. These will not only help with food preparation but will look great on your new kitchen countertop.

New kitchen wall tiles:

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your kitchen an updated feel is by installing new wall tiles. Whether you choose a traditional or contemporary design, adding some new tiles will completely transform the look of your cooking area. If you’re looking for something that’s both stylish and practical, then consider using tile panels instead of standard square tiles. These panels are easy to install and come in a variety of colors and textures, so you can find the perfect style to match your existing decor. Plus, they’re less likely to crack or chip over time, making them a more durable option than traditional ceramic tiles.

Replace old appliances:

If you’re serious about giving your kitchen an updated feel, then it’s time to say goodbye to those old, dated appliances. While they may have served you well in the past, they’re no match for today’s high-tech models. Replacing your oven, fridge, and other appliances can be a costly task, but it’s one that will pay off in the long run.

Not only do new appliances look great, but they also come with a range of features that make cooking and food storage easier than ever before. Alternatively, you could consider utilizing the help of vierascheibner appliance repair to make your old appliances work like new again! So, if you’re thinking of doing some major renovations in the near future, then don’t forget to factor in replacement appliances as part of your budget.

With these simple tips under your belt, you’ll be able to give your kitchen an updated feel in no time at all!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Nov8

5 Common Kitchen Tools You’re Probably Using Wrong

Posted on by
Standard
5 Common Kitchen Tools You’re Probably Using Wrong

Kitchen gadgets and appliances are designed to make your life easier and there seems to be a new one coming out every five minutes. A lot of them are completely useless and probably not worth your money but there are plenty that are actually useful. The problem is, many people don’t know how to use their kitchen appliances and gadgets properly, so they’re not getting the most out of them. These are some of the kitchen tools you are probably using wrong:

Garlic Press:

The worst thing about using garlic in the kitchen is taking the skin off. It’s so fiddly and annoying to do, so you’d think that it would be more useful to have a tool for that instead of a garlic press. The thing is, you don’t actually need to remove the skin at all when you use a garlic press! Most people make this mistake and they waste a lot of time. But if you put the whole clove in there and use the press, it should do all of the hard work for you.

Nutribullet:

Nutribullets are one of the most popular kitchen gadgets on the market right now. They’re great for making smoothies, but that’s not all they’re for. People often make the mistake of using their Nutribullet for making smoothies and nothing else. But if you’re going to do that, you may as well buy a much cheaper smoothie maker. Nutribullets can actually be used for all sorts of things like blending soups, making sauces, and mixing batter. You can even use them for crushing ice and nuts too, so you get the most out of the one gadget.

If you have a Nutribullet of your own, check out these 19 nutribullet recipes at mykidslickthebowl.com to get some more ideas. Once you start experimenting with a few different recipes, you’ll see that your Nutribullet is capable of much more than just making smoothies (although it is great for that too).

Dishwasher:

There are a lot of ways that people use their dishwasher wrong. Sometimes, people just pile all of the dirty dishes in there without giving it a second thought. But if you don’t load it efficiently, things won’t clean properly and you won’t be able to get as much in there. Loading your dishwasher properly makes everything easier for the machine, which means that it will run more efficiently and even save you money on electricity bills if you do it right.

People also overlook the fact that they need to clean their dishwashers. If you don’t clean your dishwasher regularly, then the machine will get clogged up with food particles and it will start breaking down. It’s important to keep on top of this if you want your dishwasher to continue working properly. There are filters inside that you need to take out and clean yourself. You should also rinse plates properly before you put them in to prevent food buildup.

Knives:

Most people don’t know how to sharpen their knives properly so if you want to get the most longevity out of your knife set, it’s crucial that you hand wash them and dry them thoroughly after each use. Don’t put them in the dishwasher because this will ruin the blade and make it duller very quickly. After cleaning, you should store them either hung up or on a magnetic bar (not loose).

Using the right knife for the right job is important too, and it’s something that people get wrong a lot. A standard chef knife is good for most tasks, but some jobs require a bread knife, fillet knife, carving knife, and so on. By using the right knife for each job, you’ll get much better results and you will be able to cut things more easily. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that sharper means more dangerous. In fact, a blunt knife means that you have to apply more pressure to cut, and that increases the likelihood of slipping and cutting yourself. So, it’s actually better to use a sharper knife.

Spaghetti Spoons:

Most people assume that the hole in the middle of a spaghetti spoon is for draining water. It does help with that, but that isn’t what it’s there for! Most people don’t realize that the hole in the middle of the spoon is actually for measuring the amount of spaghetti you should cook. The hole will take one average portion of pasta for a person, so you can avoid cooking way too much.

If you want to make life easier for yourself in the kitchen, make sure that you are using these tools properly!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

Sep23

Repairs That Can’t Wait

Posted on by
Standard
Repairs That Can’t Wait

While some repairs around your home can be done with a bit of DIY, there are some things that you just have to call in the professionals for. No one likes an unexpected bill for something breaking down. However, leaving it to get worse will end up costing you more money in the long run with more extensive repairs or having to buy a new appliance altogether. Today, we are going to look at a few key elements of your home that shouldn’t wait until the last minute if they are on the fritz:

Kitchen Appliances:

The purpose of appliances are to make tasks and chores easier for you. Handwashing dishes is a drag and going to the laundromat can be downright miserable! To keep yourself on easy street, it is crucial to fix problematic appliances as soon as issues arise. An improperly working stove for instance can be dangerous to yourself and your family. It’s therefore important to call in an Appliance Repair specialist as soon as possible because continued use can cause an even bigger, more expensive issue.

Meanwhile, a refrigerator that is going kaput will force you to throw away its contents as the food will not be safe to eat if its not kept cold. When appliances malfunction, it is best to find a repair person to do it all to save you the hassle from multiple different people coming in and out. For example, you can find quality fridge repair in Barrie that also specializes in washers, dryers, and ovens.

Car Troubles:

Bad breaks and bald tires are incredibly dangerous and even more so when there is inclement weather. Getting your car troubles fixed now will better protect you and your passengers, especially with winter fast approaching. Driving is one of the most risky things that people do every day so you want to make sure that your vehicle is always in prime working order. Getting new tires for the winter is a must and don’t forget your routine maintenance checks and oil changes.

When it comes to getting new tires, you will want to take your car to a shop that specializes in this specifically like Melksham Tyre Supplies (or a similar business in your local area). That way you can ensure that you are getting the best quality work for the task at hand. Tire specific shops might also run special promotions like a discounted tire rotation for every five thousand miles or free puncture repairs and this can help save money. Do your research to find the best service and deals near you.

Failing to tend to car repairs when needed can be a danger to yourself and others on the road and it should be taken seriously. If it’s recommend during your maintenance check to get a Steering Column Sensor Repair, an alignment, or new breaks, do so ASAP. And, if it doesn’t fit in your budget, you might be able to work out a payment plan with the repair shop.

Home Security:

When it comes to home security, it doesn’t just mean your security system. It also includes your windows, doors, and garage door. Any point of entrance for someone uninvited to come into your home should be checked on frequently. Schedule regular maintenance for your home security system and automatic lighting if you have them and call in a repair person immediately to change locks for windows and doors. Cracks, weak locks, and warping create a “welcome” sign for burglars as well as pests.

Keep you and your loved ones safe by tending to problems as soon as they arise. Although repairs can be expensive, peace of mind is priceless.

Aug17

Budget Friendly Shopping For Your Home

Posted on by
Standard
Budget Friendly Shopping For Your Home

Shopping for furniture, accessories, and appliances for your home or apartment can be so costly that it almost seems easier to leave things as is rather than updating or upgrading. Believe you me, I get it! However, I also know how effective budget shopping can be because I furnished my entire apartment on secondhand items. Today, we are going to explore a few different budget friendly options for your next home makeover:

Secondhand Stores:

The most effective eco and budget friendly option for making upgrades in your home is, hands down, second hand shopping. Buying secondhand is amazing because you are repurposing old things and preventing them from being dumped into a landfill. Your local Goodwill could be a treasure trove of unique furniture and accessories that you didn’t know you needed. This is also an ideal option for people who don’t want their homes to look like everyone else’s because of all of the cool accessories and knick knacks you can find. My art wall in my apartment is completely made from old pieces of art that I bought at the Goodwill.

Facebook Marketplace:

Another great option, similar to secondhand stores, is the Buy, Sell, Trade marketplaces on Facebook. This could be perfect if you are looking for used appliances for sale, furniture, or other odds and ends. The beauty of the Facebook Marketplace is that once you find the replacement for something in your house, you can list the no longer needed item and make some extra cash too. 😀

Always remember if you are purchasing from someone selling on a marketplace type website that your safety is paramount. It is best practice to meet up in a public location like the parking lot of a busy grocery store or coffee shop. You can never be too careful.

Apps:

The OfferUp app is a virtual garage sale where you can both post items for sale and make purchases. I haven’t used this app in a while but I have had a lot of luck in the past selling things on it. I have seen everything on OfferUp from cars, appliances, outdoor equipment, and clothing. The nice part about this app is that it categorizes all of the items on there which will really help narrow down your searches for something specific. You definitely don’t get this luxury at a local thrift store.

Yard Sales:

Summer is the best season for people to host yard sales due to the promise of good weather so now is a great time to do some browsing in your local neighborhoods. It might be a mixed bag but it is another option to save some money while making purchases for your home. You all know the old saying of one man’s trash!

Making updates to your home doesn’t have to break your bank. Get started with the ideas above and see how much you can save today!

Jun29

Kitchen Upgrades To Try Today

Posted on by
Standard
Kitchen Upgrades To Try Today

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home. We tend to spend a lot of time in this space, cooking, chatting, hosting guests. So, why not consider giving your kitchen a little overhaul with some new appliances that will not only look great, but will add to your cooking too? Here are just a few examples you might want to consider:

A Stand Mixer:

Into baking? Throughout the past year and a half, many people have picked up baking as an activity to keep them preoccupied with free time found during the pandemic. We can’t blame them! Baking can be carried out easily from the comfort of your own home – and you get a delicious treat at the end too! Now, if you’ve been practicing and are getting better at your breads, cakes, pastries and other baked goods you may be aware of just how tiring it can be thoroughly mixing ingredients. This is where a stand mixer could help. Stand mixers do the hard work for you, leaving you with a lovely dough or batter, ready to bake.

A Coffee Machine:

If you like a good cup of coffee, you don’t have to go to your local coffee shop to get one. If you have a coffee machine at home, you’ll be able to make delicious brews within your own four walls. A coffee machine can do much more than simply pouring hot water from the kettle into some granules. When choosing your machine, make sure to look for good reviews and recommendations. This will give you an idea of other people’s experience with your chosen machine and whether it’s worth the money. There are different options on the market to suit different budgets but, generally speaking, the better the machine is, the better the coffee will be.

Cookware:

A lot of us settle for budget cookware only to find that food sticks to it or the food burns on it. This is less than ideal, so consider overhauling your cookware and investing in some new versions. There are different types for different cooking devices, such as the best ceramic cookware for oven, stove top, and more. There are also many different designs, allowing you to match your pots, pans and trays to the aesthetic of your kitchen itself.

A Slow Cooker:

Many of us are working from home now and would love to be able to prep a few simple ingredients in the morning to have dinner ready at the end of the day. A slow cooker can achieve this. Leave it plugged in with your ingredients inside and you can have some great casseroles, stews, and curries lined up for your evening meals.

There’s an endless array of other kitchen appliances and equipment out there. The options highlighted above are just a few useful suggestions that could do you and your home a world of good!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun19

Summer Check List For Your Home

Posted on by
Standard
Summer Check List For Your Home

Whether for yourself or your home a makeover is always a good idea! There is no need to overspend to refresh your home as the weather changes. All you need are a few simple but effective solutions to suffice so let’s discuss further with a summer check list for your house:

First Things First:

There is literally nothing worse than returning home from work on a hot day to an equally hot house. If you haven’t already, it is so crucial to get your air conditioning checked by a professional for the continued comfort of yourself, family, and pets. Don’t forget to get your refrigerator repaired if it is on the fritz by a local professional or appliance repair Winnipeg to keep your ice cream and popsicles from melting! Summer party foul.

Refresh Your Fabrics:

During the warm weather, it is all about breezy flowy fabrics both in fashion and in your home. Ditch the heavy drapes on your windows with gauzy curtains and pack up your throw blankets and plush rugs for the fall. Less is more when it comes to summer home decor and just the sight of heavy fabrics on a hot day can feel suffocating! Opt for bright throw pillows, thin and colorful traditional rugs, and billowy curtains for a cool and comfy atmosphere.

Change Up The Color Palette:

Nothing looks more chic in the summertime than neutral colors like white or beige paired with bold pops of color. Of course, the same goes for fashion too! Don’t bother making over your entire home, just focus on improving the room you will spend the most time in. The living room is an excellent option. Could you imagine relaxing on a beautiful beige canvas recliner with pleasing pops of orange or turquoise scattered throughout the room? That sounds heavenly to me!

Plants & Landscaping:

If you have a green thumb, a potted plant display in your house could make a unique statement as well as improve your air quality. No worries if you can’t even keep a cactus alive – that’s what wildflower bouquets from the farmers market on your kitchen and coffee tables are for! Flowers go a long way on both the interior and exterior of your house and the beautiful blooms are sure to make your family and neighbors smile. Start a gardening club with your friends and have fun getting your hands dirty.

Check, check, and double check. Your home is now perfectly summer ready!

Feb19

Best Practices For Keeping Your Clothes Like New

Posted on by
Standard
Best Practices For Keeping Your Clothes Like New

Any fashionista wants their clothes to continue looking as good as it did the first time you tried it on in the store and that means knowing how to properly care for them. Keeping your clothes in great condition will allow you to get more use out of it as well as give you the opportunity to sell it on Poshmark once it is ready to retire from your wardrobe. Today, we’re going to go over a few best practices when it comes to taking care of your clothes to keep them like new for as long as possible:

Tend To Appliance Repairs:

A dryer that overheats or a washer that doesn’t fully rinse away detergent isn’t going to do your clothes any favors at all. Tend to all dryer and washer repairs when the problem arises to avoid an even bigger repair a month or two down the line as well as potentially ruining some of your favorite pieces. 

Store Your Clothes Properly:

Knowing how to store your clothes properly will help prevent wrinkles and creases which will limit the possibility of you burning your favorite top on the iron! That’s one of my nightmares, anyways. A good rule of thumb is to fold clothes that have a stretchy material like T-shirts and sweaters while using Luxury Hangers to hang up items that need their shape supported like a jacket as well as materials that can wrinkle easily like silk blouses. Learning the Marie Kondo method of folding will also help with the overstuffed dresser drawers that won’t shut!

Don’t forget to take care of your accessories too. Invest in a cute jewelry stand or a wall mounted fixture to display your bling while keeping them tangle free. Keep sunglasses in protective cloth bags and, if possible, keep your shoes stored in their original boxes. Remember to stuff your purses, shoes, and hats with tissue paper to help reinforce their shape.

Follow Washing Instructions On The Tag:

For some reason, people never seem to follow the cleaning instructions on clothing tags which provide a how to guide to the best care for the item. There is nothing more disappointing than a new favorite shirt that shrunk because you didn’t wash it in cold water! Following the instructions on the care tag will prevent the colors of your clothes from bleeding as well as the fabric from stretching, shrinking, or tearing. And, please, if it says “Dry clean only” just take it to the dry cleaner!

The clothing and accessories in our wardrobe were bought because we thought they were flattering so we want them to stay in great condition for as long as we can. Follow the best practices above to help increase the longevity of your clothes as well as giving truth to all of your “next to new” listings!