Smart Home

Everything you need to know about the world of smart home automation and home technology.

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    Boil Water Advisory Says Add Bleach — Is It Really Safe? Experts Weigh In

    Boiling is better than bleaching, but it will still do in a pinch—provided you follow the right precautions

    Best Outdoor Weatherproof TV for Al Fresco Entertainment

    Find the best outdoor TV for al fresco entertaining to watch sports, host movie nights or binge a favorite show


    Planned Blackouts: Why Utilities Cut Power on Purpose

    Planned blackouts help prevent wildfires caused by downed power lines and malfunctioning electrical equipment. Here's how to get ready for...


    10 Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems to Stay Safe

    Secure your home and keep watch of your property no matter where you are with one of the best self-monitored...


    Deep Clean Your Dyson Vacuum in 12 Easy Steps

    Quick and simple guide on how to clean your Dyson vacuum like a pro.

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    Why Isn’t My Window Air Conditioner Blowing Cold Air?

    Window AC not blowing cold air? Here are some simple steps to troubleshoot the issue, and possibly get up and...


    The Simplest Way to Install Closet Lighting: No Wiring Required

    Say goodbye to fumbling through your clothes in the dark with this guide on installing sleek motion detector closet lights.


    20 Annoying Home Noises, and How to Eliminate Them Forever

    From a groaning refrigerator to a vibrating washer machine, here's how to address those persistent little noises that drive you...


    How to Test Your Water Heater Element

    Learn the most common cause of no hot water and how to fix it.


    Do Devices Charge Slower If You Have Too Many Plugged In?

    Plugging several devices into a receptacle shouldn't cause slow charging in a healthy electrical system, but it might in an...

    How Much Internet Speed Do I Really Need?

    The internet speed you need depends on preferences and lifestyle. Luckily, there are different packages to choose from to get...


    Why Homeowners Should Invest in a Portable Heat Pump

    If a whole-house heat pump isn't in the cards for you, you can still benefit from high-efficiency heat pump technology...


    If You See an Orange Dot On Your iPhone, This Is What It Means

    Learning all the symbols on your phone is overwhelming but important. Today, we're explaining what the orange dot on an...


    Clean a Drain With Baking Soda and Vinegar

    If your sink drains slowly or smells strange, here's a cheap and way to get it flowing again without using...


    How Often Should You Reboot Your Router?

    Periodically restarting your router keeps your internet connection strong and deters hackers.

    This Is How Often You Should Restart Your Phone

    Here's how often you should restart your phone for security and performance benefits, according to experts.


    How To Upgrade Light Switch Covers

    Plain no more, light switch covers can completely transform a room. Plus, they're easy to install.


    Will Your Holiday Decorations Make for a Big Electric Bill? A Cost Breakdown

    Light up the night this season, without lighting up your electrical bill.


    Which Way Should a Ceiling Fan Spin?

    A ceiling fan can keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer, as long as it's spinning in...


    A Guide to Space Heater Safety

    Learn essential tips for space heater safety to keep your home and loved ones safe.


    Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker in Minutes: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Already a pro at resetting a breaker? Teach your family and friends with this handy guide.


    This Simple Furnace Trick Can Refresh Your Entire Home

    Essential oils in a furnace filter can freshen up a home's aroma, but there are caveats. Here's what to know...


    Can Bubble Wrap Insulate Windows? We Put the Trend to the Test

    Bubble wrap is touted as a cheap hack to keep the cold out, but does it work?


    Should You Leave a Window Open in the Winter? All the Pros and Cons

    Experts weigh in on this controversial practice.

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    The Gross Truth About What Builds Up in Your Neglected Water Heater

    Why this often overlooked maintenance task is more important than you may realize.


    Safely Remove a Broken Light Bulb From the Socket

    Broken bulb stuck in the socket? We have multiple methods to help.


    Why Male-to-Male Extension Cords Are Rare and Dangerous

    Electricians refer to male-to-male extension cords as "suicide cords." Here's why you should never use one.


    500,000 Space Heaters Recalled Over Fire Risk – Is Yours Affected?

    Hundreds of thousands of space heaters have been recalled over safety concerns. Learn if yours is included and what to...


    Fact or Fiction: Will Tin Foil Behind the Radiator Warm Up Your Space?

    A viral home hack suggests tin foil could help boost your radiator heat. But does it actually work?


    7 Reasons Your Water Pressure Is Low

    Low water pressure got you down? Learn about possible causes and some fixes you can do yourself.