Jennifer Farrington

A nonfunctional outlet means power is not reaching the receptacle or your device, possibly due to a loose connection or a tripped ground fault. Homeowners can troubleshoot by resetting the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet or checking that the circuit breaker did not switch off.  If your electrical outlets show any signs of overheating,…

A well pressure tank stores water and regulates water pressure in homes with well systems. These tanks are typically found in your basement or garage, though some are housed in a well house or insulated enclosure for protection from the elements. Water from your well fills one of two compartments of the well pressure tank;…

Unclogging a garbage disposal is a fairly simple task that most homeowners can DIY. You’ll need a few tools and household supplies, such as a hex wrench and white vinegar. Make sure to cut power to your garbage disposal before you begin. Disposals have sharp impellers on a grinding ring that could cause injury or…

The American Automobile Association (AAA), a not-for-profit organization known for roadside assistance, offers moving discounts through partnerships with national and local moving companies. AAA members can save on services from retailers such as Home Depot, Hertz Car Rental and The UPS Store. These savings can help you create a moving budget with flexibility for unexpected…

Heat pump furnace combos, commonly known as dual-fuel or hybrid systems, feature an electric heat pump and a furnace working in tandem. This type of heating system can be sold as two individual appliances placed side by side and sharing the same ductwork or as a split system with two separate energy components.  Heat pump…

A sump pump prevents indoor flooding by collecting excess water from your home’s foundation drains and pumping it safely away from your home. It’s installed in or near a sump basin beneath your home’s foundation — either underwater or above the water line. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider factoring a sump pump…

When shopping for a home warranty, asking key questions can help you better understand your coverage and achieve the peace of mind that comes from purchasing a policy from a reputable provider. “Homeowners should not only ensure they are working with a licensed company, but that the company is in good standing,” said Madison Voss,…

Skylights are a great way to flood your home with natural light. On average, aluminum, double-glazed skylight windows cost between $383 and $2,390 per window. This cost excludes installation, according to Sierra West Publishing’s “Current Residential Construction Cost Manual 2024.”  Compared to vinyl, fiberglass and wood, aluminum is a more affordable window framing material for…

Garden window costs can range from $1,316 to $2,041 for the window only, according to cost data from Sierra West Publishing’s “Current Residential Construction Costs Manual 2024.”  Aluminum and vinyl are the cheapest options in terms of garden window framing materials, while wood and fiberglass are more expensive, according to Joe Hudock, the brand president…

The average cost for sliding patio doors typically ranges from $1,254 to $2,845 per door for standard vinyl and aluminum options, excluding installation, upgrades and additional features. “In general, the size determines the cost,” said Wayne Turett, founder and principal of The Turett Collaborative in New York City. “Within the available sliding door [options], the…

A water heater warranty is a contract between the product’s manufacturer and the consumer. It stipulates what it will and won’t replace or repair if the water heater breaks or malfunctions within a certain period.  Warranties are valuable when a unit experiences an issue due to a defective part or product failure, given the issue…

Although switching to solar energy can be expensive initially, state and federal relief programs help make solar panels worth it. One of the most significant tax credits is the federal solar tax credit, also called the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Under the ITC, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides nonrefundable tax credits for energy improvement…

Common toilet problems, such as persistently dripping water or a leaky wax seal, can often be resolved with DIY fixes — sparing you the cost of hiring a plumber. While home warranty companies usually cover certain toilet issues, such as septic system pump concerns, many common problems can be easily fixed in just a few…

Reduced airflow, warm spots in your home and loud noises from your air conditioner are all signs you may need emergency AC repairs. “If the AC unit is no longer moving cool air or air at all, then you need to contact an HVAC professional right away,” advised Mark Bowers, owner and operator of Bowers…

Epoxy putty, wrap tape and pipe repair clamps are just a few DIY solutions for repairing a leaking pipe. However, these remedies should only be used as a temporary fix until a licensed plumber can make proper repairs, advised Mark Bowers, owner and operator of Bowers Home Inspection in Billings, Montana. Hiring a professional allows…

Proper hot water heater maintenance can extend the life span of your unit, preserving its efficiency for bathing, dishwashing and laundry. Yet, “people often don’t think about their water heater until it stops working,” said Brian Hubbard, operator of Hubb Plumbing in Snellville, Georgia. Most preventative maintenance can be completed on an annual or seasonal…

When shopping for the best gutters for your home, it’s about more than gutter types and materials — consider the size you need. Residential gutters commonly come in 4-, 5- and 6-inch sizes, and your selection is determined by the amount of water they need to move away from your home at any given time.…

Gutter splash guards are aluminum or stainless steel panels designed to prevent gutter drainage issues. This add-on protects your home’s foundation from issues such as decay and algae growth. Inexpensive and easy to install, splash guards are secured with screws to the gutters. A valley is where two roof faces intersect, collecting water from both…

Reach out to your post office before you pack up your moving truck. If you’re considering a temporary move — 15 days to 12 months — you can file a temporary change of address (COA) order with the United States Postal Service (USPS). During this time, your mail and most other forms of correspondence will…

Packing your belongings in preparation for a move is tedious because it must be done carefully — particularly when handling fragile items. Furniture, appliances and large possessions such as pianos should all be properly wrapped with moving blankets, sometimes called furniture pads or furniture blankets. This protective padding prevents damage during transit. Moving blankets should…