Quick Tips Articles
When it feels like your life is running on empty, keeping up with work, family and all of life’s little chores managing the home can take a back seat. Learn quick-tips for the home from organizing, cleaning, maintenance, safety and more.
What Should and Shouldn't Go in the Garbage Disposal?
Not sure what should be put down the garbage disposal? Check out this guide to see what foods are safe to put in the disposal. Maintenance tips included too!
3 Outdoor End-of-Summer Home Improvement Projects
The transition from summer to fall will be here before you know it. Check out these three outdoor projects you can do as summer starts to close out.
When is the Best Time to Buy Appliances?
Buying new appliances can be a long process. You want to get the best deal on the best systems & appliances. Learn when the best times to find the best prices.
Weatherstripping Your Doors and Windows
While the heat is here now, and the cold is coming, you'll want to make sure your doors and windows are properly weatherstripped so that you don't lose cold air or heat. Here is a short guide on how to do the weatherstripping in your home.
10 Simple DIY Home Maintenance Ideas
Now that the weather is nice, it is time to do some DIY projects around your home. Get your house looking even better with these simple, yet effective, DIY ideas.
Are Ceiling Fans Covered with a Home Warranty?
Ceiling fans are imperative to your bedrooms and living rooms when temperatures are warmer. Learn how home warranty coverage can help you save if your ceiling fans break down.
What is a Mini-Split A/C System: Are They Worth It?
Mini-Split systems are becoming more popular, but are they worth the money? Learn how they work and all the info on these small ac units to make the decision yourself.
Is It Better to Rekey or Change Locks?
Whether you just moved into a new home or have been in the same house for a while, it might be a good time for you to look into changing your locks. But is rekeying a better option? Most home warranties cover at least one of these.
What to Expect from Your Home Warranty Coverage if You Have an HVAC Issue
If you have an issue with your HVAC system, there's a good chance your home warranty will cover it. Here's what to expect when submitting your claim.
What You Need to Know Before Replacing Your Windows
Ready to look into window replacement for your home? Here is everything you need to know before you get started.
Your Guide to Buying a New AC Unit
Need a new AC unit for your home? Use this guide to make sure you're covering everything you need to know for buying an AC.
10 Summer Prepping Ideas for Your Home
Get your family and home ready for summer by using some of these prepping ideas. The weather is changing, which means time to get outside and get your home ready for warmer weather.
5 Tips to Get Your House Ready for Warmer Weather
Use these five tips to get your house ready for the summer season. AHS is here to help you with tips, guides and ideas for your home and yard.
Bathroom Cleaning Hacks to Make Your Life Easier
Cleaning your bathroom regularly can keep your home healthy and safe. Here are some bathroom cleaning hacks to clean your bathroom quickly and effectively.vvvvvvv
Dealing with the Headache of Finding Mold Under the Sink
Discovering mold under your sink can be a headache, but luckily you can usually remove it yourself. Here is how to effectively remove mold under the sink.
Winter Has Ended, Now to Time to Clean the Fireplace
Using your fireplace is a great way to keep warm during the winter. Here's how to clean your fireplace so that it continues to look great and be safe to use.
Top Reasons to Call a Plumber
Sometimes it may seem easier to try and fix something on your own, but most of the time it is best to leave it to the pros, especially when it comes to plumbing problems.
How to Childproof Your Whole Home to Keep Your Children Safe
From identifying your home's "hanger zones" to installing door knob covers. We have tips to help childproof all of your home!
Can You Put Shoes in the Washer?
Washing your shoes in the washing machine can be simple, but follow these tips from AHS on how to properly wash your shoes. When it comes to your washer, you don't want to take shortcuts.
How to Patch a Drywall
Whether its a small hole, large hole, dents or cracks. AHS has the steps to help you patch and repair your drywall.
Find a Home Service Contract that Works for You with the NHSCA
The NHSCA is one of the best places to find information about reputable home service contract providers. Their database contains reputable home service providers around the country.
How to Get Rid of Mold in Showers — and Everywhere Else in Your Bathrooms!
What is mold? And why is it in your bathroom? Mold and mildew are enemies that constantly need to be kept under control. AHS is here to help get your bathroom mold problem under control.
Don’t Let Frozen Pipes Ruin Your Winter Wonderland
Burst pipes are among the most common causes of property damage during the winter, and they are most often due to frozen pipes. Follow these tips to protect your pipes from freezing this winter.
Do You Know How To Clean a TV Screen the Right Way?
Spots and smudges are not what you want on your television screen. AHS can help you get your tv screen spot free, improving your viewing pleasure.
How to Prepare Your Home For an Arctic Blast
Whether it's a polar vortex, arctic blast or old-fashioned winter storm, protect your home and stay warm with these tips.
Can't Miss Tips for Clean Gutters
Cleaning your gutters can be a small chore, but the benefits could be huge. AHS has simple tips for cleaning and protecting your gutters.
Not Too Scary: Safety Tips for Halloween
Halloween is a night of fun! But safety shouldn't be taken lightly. Follow these tips on Halloween safety to keep you and your kids safe this Halloween season.
Is Your Home Humid Enough?
Too high of humidity levels can lead to mold and mildew within your home. Too low of levels can aggravate respiratory problems. AHS can help you understand the benefits of a humidifier.
How to Locate Your Gas Shut Off Valve
If your house has natural gas, you have a main shut off valve. Learning the location of your shut off valve could save your life.
5 Smart Tips for Getting Rid of Old Appliances
What do you do with your old or broken appliances? AHS can help you figure out the best means of disposal for your old appliances.
Electrical Safety at Home: Stay Safe with These 10 Tips
It is hard to imagine a life without electricity, but this helpful power should not be underestimated. Follow these 10 electrical safety tips to keep you and your family safe.
4 Simple Microwave Cleaning Hacks That Work!
Try these 4 simple methods of cleaning your microwave! These hacks go beyond just cleaning the splatters, by also taming your super-smelly microwave.
5 Ways to Get a Sparkling Clean Bathtub
A clean bathtub can be easier to have than you think. Soap scum, mildew and other gross grimes can look daunting but AHS can help you clean your tub and keep it sparkling.
How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen
The thought of cleaning your kitchen can be intimidating, but there are few better feelings than a clean space. Let AHS help get your kitchen spotless!
Getting Down & Dirty: How To Clean An Oven
Dirty oven? When you have a spill its best to clean it up right away, but whether you have a electric or gas oven, AHS has the proper tips for cleaning your oven
Getting Down & Dirty: How To Clean An Oven
Dirty oven? When you have a spill its best to clean it up right away, but whether you have a electric or gas oven, AHS has the proper tips for cleaning your oven
How to Replace a Light Switch
Sick and tired of that one light switch that always seems to be flickering? Ready to tackle that new three-way switch in your den? Let Home Matters shed a little light on how to safely, quickly and easily tackle this common DIY project.
6 Eco-Friendly Solutions to Keep Your Home Clean
Best alternatives for how to clean your home using eco friendly products. What products are considered dangerous, and what are the greenest products for keeping your home clean?
Helpful or Harmful? What to Know About Pool Chemicals
Chlorine is the most common chemical added to pools is chlorine. It acts as a sanitizer, killing bacteria and algae. But is chlorine harmful?
The Best Way to Clean Grout? It May Be Easier Than You Think.
One of the best ways to make your tile look like new is cleaning the grout that fills the gaps between them. Here are some of the best ways to clean the grout in your house
AHS Service Requests Made Easy Online
More customers are enjoying the convenience of requesting service online. It’s a quick way to get your service into action—without ever being put on hold or speaking to anyone. Plus, it’s mobile friendly—check it out for yourself.
5 Reasons Why You Don't Have to Pre-Rinse Your Dishes
Do you have to rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher? Turns out, AHS has the answer and it just might save you more than just time.
Top Load vs. Front Load Washers; Which is better?
Find out more about top load and front load washers, including the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed purchase.
How to Prevent Clothes From Shrinking and Tips to Revive
One of the best ways to avoid shrinking clothes in the wash is by checking the label of the garments. For more tips on avoiding this laundry disaster, click here.
Top 5 Ways to Maintain Your Vinyl Pool Lining
Vinyl pool liners are an affordable option for those wanting the convenience of a swimming pool in their own backyard. Take care of your vinyl liner all summer long with these 5 tips.
3 Steps to Clean a Fridge in 30 Minutes or Less
There are plenty of reasons to clean a fridge and one big excuse not to — namely, lack of time. But you don’t need to set aside several hours to complete a basic clean-out. Get it done in 30 minutes with this guide.
How Air Conditioning Works
Air conditioners work by removing heat from the inside of your home and releasing outside. Learn more about the process of AC and the importance of the 5 main components.
5 Outdoor Home Improvement Ideas for Every Homeowner
Looking for some outdoor home improvement ideas? With a little effort and imagination, you can complete each of these five outdoor home improvement projects in as little as one weekend.
3 Basic Ways to Prep Your Pool for Summer
As a pool owner, we know you may be ready for summer, but is your pool? Now’s the time to make sure your pool is the place for family fun all season long.
8 Thrifty Ways to Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Did you know that your home’s garbage disposal needs to be cleaned regularly? During use, food particles and residue can be left behind and cause the unit to have an unpleasant odor.
The Definitive Guide to Black Mold Removal
Mold is an essential part of nature, but when it enters the home it can be very dangerous. Use this guide to help you remove black mold from your home.
The Complete Guide: Best Appliances for Small Kitchens
A small kitchen can be a blessing or a curse. This guide for small kitchens helps you navigate the best appliances for small kitchens along with different options.
The Great {Baking} Debate: What’s the Best Oven for Baking?
What’s the best oven for baking? We outline all the pros and cons for gas, electric & convection ovens for baking - learn which one is best for you.
Water Woes: Can Hard Water Damage Pipes?
Hard water can dry out skin and hair and be hard to drink, but what about your pipes? Learn how to prevent clogged and damaged pipes with these solutions.
Water Woes: Why is My Hot Water Brown and Stinky?
Did you know that smelly, discolored water is often a sign that something is wrong with your water heater? Learn what to look for and what to do.
3 Ways Cold Temps Can Affect Your Home
Ever wonder if extreme cold can damage your home? Learn how to help prevent common winter woes - frozen pipes, drywall cracks, frost heave - with these tips.
Practical Snow Shoveling Tips to Use This Winter
Snow shoveling. Whether you love it or hate it, here are some useful tips to protect your home from snow and ice damage and your family from slips and falls.
How to Winterize Your Deck
Love your wooden deck in the summer? Then learn how to protect against winter winds, ice and snow with these tips - covering deck, ice melts, how to shovel.
Make Your Dream of Instant Hot Water in Your Home a Reality
No ones likes getting splashed with cold water during the winter. Learn how to get hot water faster and how this affects your heating and plumbing.
How to Reach Your Personal Goals: Home Edition
Start the year or finish it by achieving your homeowner goals! Paying off your mortgage or doing home repairs is probably on your list. Get set to reach your goals!
Trash Compactor 101: Why You Need One
Wondering if a trash compactor is a good idea for your home? Did you know AHS covers trash compactors? Learn how they work and who they benefit.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it … Whoa! How to Remove Snow and Ice From Your Home
Snow and ice can be brutal to a home and driveway. Don't let this winter take a beating on your home or your spirits. Use these tips for snow and ice removal!
Protect Your Home Against Snow
How to remove snow and ice or prevent them from building up on your home is good winter maintenance. Snow and ice can take a toll on home systems and exteriors.
Take Your Radiator From an Eyesore to a Work of Art
Not able to update your old radiator? Then disguise your radiator with these stylish options - everything from painting it to building a fake fireplace!
What Is the Difference Between a Furnace and a Boiler?
Furnaces and boilers are the same ... or are they? Both heat homes, but they do it differently. Learn how they differ and the pros and cons of furnaces and boilers.
How to Choose the Best Stove for Your Kitchen
Are cooktops range stoves? Induction, gas, or electric? Stoves come with choices. Learn the basics of each type and what to consider when choosing a stove.
Wondering How to Make Your Home Smell Like Fall? Here are 5 Simple Tips!
Love the smells of pumpkin spice and cinnamon? Then autumn is probably your favorite season! Learn how to bring the smell of fall into your home with these tips.
Prepare Your Fridge for Thanksgiving in 5 Steps
The highlight of Thanksgiving is definitely the food. Before Turkey Day, get your fridge ready for leftovers with these tips on how to organize your fridge.
Which Home Radiator is Best for You?
Radiators and their metal coils are familiar to many. But did you know there are different types or how radiators work? Learn how each heats a home.
Is Old Electrical Wiring Dangerous?
Old homes have charm. They also often have electrical wiring issues. Learn about the most common problems, solutions, and repair costs, and how AHS can help.
Should I Buy a Water Filter?
Water filters can improve the taste and the safety of tap water. Learn what to look for when choosing a water filter and how they work.
4 Ways to Update Your Lighting Without an Electrician
Ready to change the mood of your home, but not ready to commit to an electrician or a home renovation? Relax. Learn to change the lighting without electrical wiring.
Safety First: How to Change a Light Socket Step By Step
Before you throw out your favorite lamp, see if the problem is only a loose socket or one that needs to be changed. Learn how to easily change the light socket.
How to Winterize Your Pool in 4 Steps
Do you know what to do with your swimming pool once the temperatures drop? Learn how to get your pool ready for winter, so it'll be in tip-top shape next summer.
Do You Need to Adjust Your Thermostat When the Weather Changes?
Turn on the heater or turn off the A/C? As summer becomes fall, temperatures fluctuate from hot to cold. Use these tips to keep heating and cooling costs in check!
Update Your Home With These Trending Appliances
Whether you're looking to modernize or simplify your home's look or home systems, the latest appliance trends can do both, as well as make your home life easier.
Reduce Your Water Bill with a Low-Flow Toilet
Thinking of installing a low flow toilet? Whether you're looking to save money on water costs or to be kinder to the environment, find out the pros and cons.
How to Organize Your Garage Attic Space
Running out of storage space in your garage? Then use the attic space above it! Even if the attic space has odd angles, here are easy ways to use it for storage.
A/C Troubleshooting: Why Are My Air Ducts Sweating?
Do you have sweating ductwork? If you've noticed condensation building up on your ducts every time you turn on the A/C, learn what it means and what to do.
Get Skills — Tips on How to Learn Home Improvement Skills
Ready to learn your way around power tools or to save money doing basic home repairs? Then read on for tips on how to gain these handyman skills in no time!
Dispose Wisely: How to Choose a Garbage Disposal
We rarely think about it, but most of us use it daily. Learn the signs your garbage disposal needs to be replaced and what to look for when shopping for a new one.
DIY Tips to Keep Your Dishwasher Air Gap Running Smoothly
The next time your garbage disposal or dishwasher gets backed up, you'll be grateful the air gap works properly. Why? It prevents food from going into the faucet.
Ductless Air Conditioner — Is It Right For Me?
If you’re looking for a new HVAC solution for your home, you may want to consider a ductless air conditioner. Some older homes simply cannot accommodate the extensive ductwork required by a central heating and cooling system.
Ceiling Fans — A Home's Best Friend In Summer
Before the next heat wave reaches your home, prepare your ceiling fans! Learn why blades turning counter-clockwise cool a room and how fans can assist your A/C.
Flooring 101: How to Choose Flooring That Matches Your Lifestyle
Your flooring is one of the most important parts of your home. It needs to be able to handle whatever you throw at it (or on it, for that matter) — whether it’s high heels, hyper dogs or hangry toddlers.
Homeowner Basics: Where is My Water Shut-Off Valve?
Picture this - water from a burst pipe filling your home and you don't know how to stop it. Scary. Learn how to turn off the main water source to limit damage.
Basic Tools Every Homeowner Should Own
Owning a home is a good excuse to build up your toolbox, but do you know what tools are essential? AHS lists the tools that make most basic home repairs easier.
Is Geothermal Air Conditioning Right For You?
Can a heat source from the ground really save you on heating and cooling costs? Find out the pros of geothermal air conditioning, how it works, and what to consider.
A/C Not Working? 3 Steps to Troubleshoot Your A/C
So you've missed the signs that your A/C was on it's way out, what do you do now? AHS offers tips to figure out the cause and to know when you need to contact a pro.
Keeping Cool - What To Do In Extreme Heat
Keep yourself and your home cool this summer, even in the hottest temperatures with these tips. Making small changes to ceiling fans and windows can have an impact!
6 Pool Storage Ideas You Can Use Today
Rising temperatures mean pool time! But before your pool area and home is filled with damp towels, use these tips to keep the area clear so you enjoy your swim!
Cleaning Tips for Dog Hair in the Pool
Dogs in swimming pools lead to fur clogging the filtration system. Get tips on keeping your pool clean when your four-legged best friend won't stay out of the pool!
How to Repair Common Driveway Problems
Occasionally repairing the driveway is part of being a homeowner. Learn what you can fix yourself, what to consider before you DIY, and when you need to hire a pro.
Got Pool Problems?
Let an American Home Shield home warranty cover repairs from normal wear and tear on your pool parts. Learn more about what we cover so you can enjoy your pool!
5 Pool Care Mistakes You May Be Making
Here are five maintenance mishaps that you may be doing and that, unfortunately, can actually reduce the lifespan of your swimming pool.
What Is A Pool Sweep and How Do You Maintain It?
You can't enjoy your pool if it's dirty. No matter the type of pool sweep or pool vacuum you have, AHS has tips to keep it working so you can enjoy the pool.
What is a Shower Diverter Valve?
Most homes have a shower diverter valve, but do you know what your diverter valve does? The answer depends on where it's located.
Bathroom Cleaning 101: What You Need to Know
What's the dirtiest place in the bathroom? The answer may surprise you. Here is all you need to know to start a regular bathroom cleaning routine.
What you Need to Know about Roof Leaks
A leaky roof can lead to water damage and mold. Learn tips on how to find the water source and how to prevent further damage until you can repair the leak.
Tips for Using Your Dryer Effectively
Dryers can be expensive. So before you have to replace yours, don't you want to know how long it should last? Learn how to care for your dryer so it works well.
