Categories keyboard_arrow_down
For the correct work of a site, install the new version.
Home expenses can severely diminish your day-to-day savings. Home Matters experts believe in finding ways to cut costs and increase your household budget. So you can spend more money on the things that truly matter. Learn tips in cost-saving strategies, energy conservation, D.I.Y. and more.
Feeling that holiday bill hangover? You’re not alone—Americans planned to spend $861 on the 2014 holiday season. Whether you spent more or less, here are ideas to put that debt to bed.
Improved finances are the second most popular New Year’s resolution next to losing weight. Use these five tips to get your household budget in better shape.
There is not a bad time to start looking for ways to save money, especially during the holiday season. AHS has tips on how you can save this time of year.
These energy-conscious lighting tips will help you save some money on your energy bill this holiday season, leaving you with more funds to spend on loved ones.
Replacing a garage door isn’t cheap! The average cost to replace a garage door can vary depending on the type and style of door you buy. Let AHS help you plan your budget.
Summer is here. And so is the heat. But don’t let that keep you inside – here are 10 great life-hacks for staying cool during the warmer months.
Building an emergency fund may not be your top priority, but what if something unexpected were to happen, would you be ready? Here are 5 tips to help you get started.
When the mercury creeps higher it's natural to want to ratchet up the air conditioner. But that's not always the most economic or eco-sensitive solution. Believe it or not, making a few simple changes can pay off with a cool house and a lower bill.
Tile can drastically change a room’s ambiance, but it can also quickly eat away at your renovation budget. Look at this guide to define how and where to buy tile.
Are convection ovens worth it? We break down how a convection oven works, answer whether anyone really uses it and break down if it can be worth it to you.
Want your kids to grow up to be responsible with money? Then start young! Whether your child is 5 or 15, use these tips to teach them about spending and saving.
A home warranty is one of the best means of protecting your budget that a homeowner can have. But, what exactly IS a home warranty?
After-Christmas sales are a great time to stock up on certain items! Need winter clothing? Want electronics, toys, or holiday decorations? Then get to shopping!
Looking for ways to keep warm this winter without busting your budget? Here are some practical and inexpensive ways to keep your home warm.
Does your home need an alternative to traditional heaters? Then check out the pros and cons of alternative home heating methods to see if one is right for you.
Have you ever heard of a hybrid heating system? Also known as a dual-fuel system, learn how it can save on heating costs over the long-term and how it works.
Home automation and smart technology have become popular, but do they save you money? Learn what devices and technology may be best for your home and wallet.
Solar panels aren't the only way to add solar energy to your home. This sustainable energy source can be used in water heaters and lighting. Learn how to go solar!
Having trouble sticking to a household budget? Then check out these financial apps! Whether you struggle with spending, planning or saving, there's an app for you!
Looking to update your home systems or specific rooms? Learn which improvements have the most impact on your home resale value and your enjoyment of your home.
When the fridge breaks or the dishwasher is on the fritz, the impact on your budget and stress level is felt immediately. Learn how an AHS home warranty can help.
Need a new dishwasher? AHS gives insight on what to consider: needs, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Learn how these affect the cost and features of a new one.
Need a new dishwasher? AHS gives insight on what to consider: needs, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Learn how these affect the cost and features of a new one.
Looking to stay cool without cranking the A/C at full blast, but can't afford energy-efficient windows? Learn how shades, shutters, and window treatments can help!
If you’ve found yourself eyeing your increasingly undependable unit and wondering about the average cost to replace heater and air conditioning systems lately, keep reading.
Planning a family vacation on a budget may sound difficult and time-consuming, but it’s actually quite easy. Simply follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making memories — and saving some serious cash.
If you're wondering why is my water bill so high, then checking plumbing fixtures for leaks is a must. Leaky faucets and running toilets can really cost you.
Just because temperatures begin to rise drastically, your electricity bill doesn't. Learn simple ways to lower your bill and use electricity wisely this spring.
Making energy-efficiency home improvements and choices can save you money in the long run, but did you know it may also save you money during tax season? Learn more.
Saving energy saves you money. When the seasons change, the ways of reducing energy consumption also change. Learn how to increase your home's energy efficiency!
Learn easy ways you can save on winter heating costs. Turning down the thermostat and making sure vents aren't blocked reduce heating costs.
Simplify budgeting for home improvement projects with these tips on how to create a savings strategy and reduce overall spending to create the home of your dreams.
Get an updated, stylish kitchen while staying on budget. Follow these DIY tips and make small changes that result in a big impact. Kitchen remodels can be affordable.
Insulating windows in winter can reduce heating costs and make your home more energy-efficient. Follow our easy how-to guide to get your windows ready for the cold.
Here are some home-related financial items that should be reviewed each year to ensure that you have the coverages you need and that you’re getting the most out of your money.
Money worries have you down? Follow these tips to help you stick to a budget, find energy savings at home and lower your bills.
Wondering if you really need a home warranty? Here are five reasons why you do! An AHS home warranty offers appliance discounts and saves on repair costs.
Don't let power-hungry electronics result in higher electricity bills and less money in your wallet. Learn what electronics you should unplug when not in use.
Saving money on unexpected repairs is one benefit of a home warranty. Give peace of mind this Christmas by giving someone an American Home Shield home warranty!
Holiday shopping and entertaining doesn't have to break the bank. Follow these tips to start saving early and prepare a budget that allows you to enjoy the season!
Learn what to look for to save on energy costs. Replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR certified windows lowers household energy bills by an average of 12 percent.
If you're budgeting for house-related expenses don't overlook appliance home repairs and replacement costs. Budgeting for home repairs can make all the difference.
An American Home Shield Home Warranty® Plan covers the repair and replacement costs of more than 20 of your home appliances and system parts. Choose from existing plans or customize one that meets your needs without paying for unnecessary coverage.
Making ice cream is simpler than you might think — you don't need bags of ice and salt or even a special ice cream machine. Just be sure to keep your freezer in great condition — you'll want to use it to make these tasty ice cream recipes all summer long.
Do the earth a favor and conserve water this summer by collecting rainwater, mulching your lawn, avoid running your pool filter and letting your grass grow.
Learning how to set your programmable thermostat on vacation is an excellent money-saving practice. Learn the best practices to help your AC and wallet.
It's Summertime, and the living is easy. Until your see your energy bill. Save money on your electric and utility bills using these energy conservation methods.
Here you'll find ways to save money on your electric bill with these Home Matters experts tips from energy conservation hacks to programming a thermostat.
Filing federal taxes and waiting for your estimated tax return can be a stressful process. Save money and learn the tricks to tax preparation from AHS Home Matters.
Getting your finances in order can be an overwhelming experience. Follow these simple tips to put a plan in place and start saving today.
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, your energy bill gets bigger. Take advantage of these tips to reduce the energy consumed in your home as spring and summer approach.
Are in-floor heating systems worth the cost? We discuss the costs and benefits of in-floor heating systems for your home.
With the New Year here it's time to set realistic home shopping budgets. We'll explore how to budget for household expenses on a monthly basis for the year.
The centerpiece of your kitchen is your stove and oven. You have a couple options to choose from, cooktops and ranges. What is the difference? Find out here.
Cleaning hardwood floors can be tricky. These 7 solutions make it easy to clean any kind of wood floors without harming them.
Could your carpet be the source of that funky smell? These homemade carpet deodorizers can help lift the smell without using harsh chemicals.
Is space a hot commodity in your house? Find the pros and cons of cutting back on washer and dryer sizes right here.
By mixing the waste with other materials, composting toilets are able to eliminate odor and use significantly less water than the average flush toilet.
Greywater is gently used water from sinks, showers and washing machines. Find out how to recycle your greywater, reducing water waste and saving money.
Have you heard mixed reviews about radiant floor heating? Here are the facts that will help you make a better informed decision about heating your floors.
Maintain a good, clean home without breaking the bank. Save money and the environment all at once with these DIY home cleaning solution recipes.
Homemade cleaning solutions are often less toxic than name brand cleaners. These homemade window cleaner recipes will help keep your home safer.
Big, fancy appliances don’t have to cost you a pretty penny. There are plenty of ways to avoid emptying your wallet for a new washer, refrigerator, etc. You just need to know the tips and tricks to the process. Here are some that can help you save.
As the unofficial end of summer, Labor Day is perfect for spending special time with family and friends. The long weekend presents the opportunity for parties, BBQs, camping and so much more – even better, there’s a way to do it all on a budget.
Dishwasher maintenance is essential. Cleaning your dishwasher and looking out for early signs of trouble saves you from spending hundreds of dollars on repairs - or even more on a premature replacement.
You may not think much of it when using your dishwasher, but the type of soap that you choose to use can have a unique effect on the dishes being washed. Learn more about the differences before starting your next load.
Since you likely spend more time inside your home during winter months, it’s no surprise that, by summer, you may be ready to tackle that renovation project you’ve been considering.
Summer is finally here, and that means so is the heat. For much of the country, keeping a close eye on the water supply will now become increasingly important. Therefore, we’ve provided a few tips for helping you reduce your summer water usage.
Spend less money on your pool and more money having fun by putting your pool on a budget. You live on a budget, why shouldn’t your pool?
Now that Mother’s Day is on the horizon, consider some new ways to help her relax. There are plenty of new energy-efficient and timesaving appliances out there that are perfect for helping reduce the stress of daily demands.
Food costs eat up a big part of your family’s budget each month. We have five easy ways to help stretch your dollar and take a bite out of that expense.
Many homeowners only think about price when it comes to purchasing a new oven or range. Make sure you’re well informed on the many other factors before making a decision between gas and electric.
If you’re a new homeowner who's toughing out the first winter in your new home, you know that those frigid blasts of air can make your energy bills costly. Fortunately, there are a few ways to help stabilize and even lower your bills this winter.
As a homeowner, you may be eligible for some federal tax deductions that can save you money. Always consult with your tax expert about your particular circumstances. be sure to ask if you are eligible for any of these deductions:
Winter doesn’t have to mean higher heating bills. Here are a few simple home improvement tips you can use to help keep your house warm and your bills under control.
If the holidays drained your budget, this is the month to save on some things you’ve been longing for. Learn what goes on deep sale in February so you can get the best deals.
While both are great protections to have, home insurance and home warranties offer different types of protection. Learn what each covers and why you should consider purchasing both.
Month after month you pay your energy bill and it seems like the cost goes up and up. Luckily, there are a few easy changes to make around the house to help lower your energy consumption, which will lower your bill and save money.
If your home is losing energy, you’re losing money. So, how can you know if your home is energy efficient? You can do a simple DIY energy assessment, or call an auditor or local utility for a professional assessment. Here are tips to get you started.
The summer of 2014 may be a memory, but post-Labor Day vacations are an ideal way to enjoy great savings and experience summer all over again.
Saving energy on lighting is good for your budget and the environment. Learn how you can easily reduce your energy use and your electric bill by following these tips.
While everyone should do what they can to help conserve water for the community, learning how its use can affect your wallet can really make you pay attention. See what changes you can make to help keep both water supplies and bank account full.
It’s time for the kids to head back to school. If you’re overwhelmed by all you need to buy and organize, don’t hit the panic button just yet. These tips will help you save money and reduce stress, too.
Summer’s heat means you’re bathing more, watering plants, filling swimming pools and making gallons of iced beverages. Despite all that extra water usage, you can help reduce your water bill by following these simple tips.
Owning a pool doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive, time consuming, or a giant waste of energy. Follow these tips to help you enjoy your pool even more this summer.
With the high cost of energy, trying to keep your house cool during the dog days of summer can be quite costly. These natural ways to help keep your home comfortable are easier on the environment and your wallet.
You and your family deserve a fun vacation, but finding something within your budget takes time and good planning. With these practical tips and helpful ideas, you can enjoy a great family vacation that won’t break the bank.
Summer is the time for R
Living on a budget doesn't mean you can't live well. It's possible to live it up without draining your bank account. It might take some effort, but the results are well worth it!
Your refrigerator is on 24 hours a day, making it the hardest-working appliance in your kitchen. Here are some smart ways you can help lower the cost of operating it while keeping your food fresher longer.
Large household appliances like refrigerators, freezers and more can now communicate with the outside world, talk to you on your smartphone and interact with other appliances. See how they can make your life easier, save you money and save energy.
We all know the expression “a stitch in time, saves nine,” but sometimes it can be difficult to apply that lesson to the home. Keeping up with all the repairs and upgrades your house needs to run efficiently takes time and money.
It's belt-tightening time, America. Whether you're motivated by a less than robust economy or environmental concerns, now's the time to make reducing, reusing and recycling your summer priorities. Here are some easy and sensible ways to save.
Adding warmth and festivity to your home this holiday season shouldn’t be an expensive endeavor. One of the keys to holiday decorating on a budget is to use the items you already have. Learn how to create a winter wonderland without breaking the bank.
