There’s nothing like the excitement of moving into a new home. There is a lot of promise to this fresh start, from decorating the living room to planning the first home improvement project. However, it’s essential not to overlook the importance of improving your home’s security after moving in. Use these tips to help heighten the safety of your new residence.
Cutting down on energy use is great for the environment. It can also save you big bucks. Alternative energy proponent IGS Energy suggests four green and easy ways to do both:
Minimize ‘phantom loads.’ The term ‘phantom load’ refers to the energy that an appliance or electronic device consumes when it is not actually turned on. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), some 75 percent of the electricity in an average home is used to power electronics while the products are off. A report...
Utility bills are often much higher than they should be. By making some simple changes, you can keep your house comfortable and significantly reduce your monthly energy bills.
Lower Heating CostsHeating and cooling are responsible for a large chunk of utility bills. In the winter, you can save money by lowering the temperature on your thermostat. Even a change of two or three degrees can result in substantial savings over the course of a year. You can install a programmable thermostat to automa...
Your backyard can be an escape from the world. Whether you have a pool, patio, or garden, your backyard offers a level of tranquility you can’t find anywhere else. However, your peaceful escape can be disrupted by a busy road or nosey neighbor.
That makes adding a level of privacy so important. Adding one of these options provides the privacy you need to truly appreciate your outdoor space.
Birds can be a welcome visitor to your yard. Whether you are watching them out the window while you sip on a cup of coffee in the morning or from your porch in the evening, it can be a relaxing experience. Birds can also be helpful allies in keep your yard pest free as they eat a variety of insects.
It can take a little work to get your yard to be a stop for the birds in your area. By following these tips, you’ll make your yard the place to be for your feathered friends.
Are you the type of person who likes to take their flower garden indoors? Indoor plants do more than simply add color to your space; they can also improve the mood of those who live with them. If you’re looking for a blooming plant, consider one of the following four:
Bromeliads. These funky, spiky plants are in the pineapple family! Bright and tropical, they like lots of light and don’t require too much water, which makes them a great choice for a beginning gardener.
African Violet. These are...Care to knock out your spring-cleaning in a month? It may seem impossible, but take it week by week, and you’re sure to have a sparkling clean house before April showers give way to May flowers.
Week One: DeclutterDecluttering is a big aspect of any cleaning project. Whether it be your closet, bathroom, basement, garage, or other areas of your home, don’t leave this to the last week of your spring-cleaning responsibilities. Decluttering and organizing should be done before any major cleaning, a...