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.
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.
Common Home Surfaces to Clean to Avoid Colds, Flus and Viruses
Here are some common home surfaces you should remember to clean to avoid colds, flus, viruses and other contagious illnesses.
How to Put Together a Basic Tool Kit
If you've never been too handy but want to make sure you're ready to go in the event of a breakdown or repair in your home, use these tips to put together a basic tool kit.
AHS Supports One World: Together at Home – Home Projects to Tackle While You’re #TogetherAtHome
Are you looking to fill the time during self-isolation? Try working on some of these home projects that don’t require going out for any supplies.
Things to Know/Check BEFORE Your Home Warranty Expires
Here is a list of things to know/check before your home warranty expires. While the easy answer is just renew the warranty, there are some things to be aware of. Learn more
Why Does the Shower Get Hot When the Toilet is Flushed?
Why does the shower get hot when the toilet flushes? You can fix your water pressure issue and never scald anyone in your household again. Learn more about the answer to this ageless question.
How Long is a Contractor Liable for After the Job is Complete
If you're getting professional help for a home remodel, you're probably wondering how long the contractor will stay liable after the job is done. That is a common concern. Learn more!
Tips for Hanging Outdoor String Lights
Adding string lights to your deck or patio is a great way to get more lighting while making your backyard look great. Use these tips to learn how best to add string lights to your backyard.
Hardwood Floor Maintenance Tips
If you have hardwood floors, you probably know how annoying it can be to keep them looking clean and not scratched up. Learn more.
How to Reopen Your Pool
There are parts of the country that are starting to defrost, which means some people might be ready to get their pool ready for spring/summer. Use these tips to help you get your pool ready to go for swimming weather.
11 Easy Storage Ideas for Your Garage
The stress of a messy garage can ruin your day every time you go in there. Use these tips to help organize your garage.
13 Simple Steps to Switch a Light Fixture Into an Outlet
You can never have enough outlets in your home. Adding outlets can be hard, but it is made easier if the wiring already exists. Check out these simple steps to turn a light fixture into an outlet.
How to Winterize Your Pool
Need some tips on how to close your pool for the winter months? Use this guide to make sure you're covered in all spots.
Don't Be at Risk for a Home Fire This Winter
According to sources, heating units are the second leading cause of home fires, injuries and deaths. Make sure you are being safe while heating your home this winter. Learn more.
Will My Heating Oil Get Me Through the Winter?
Don't get stuck in the cold this winter. Make sure you're covered on all fronts for your heating system. Learn how much oil you should need to get through the winter.
How to Dispose of Old Light Bulbs, Batteries & Other Household Items
It can be confusing to know which household items can be dangerous to throw away. Learn what to do with old household items like batteries, light bulbs and more!
Tips for Cleaning Your Windows Like a Pro
Cleaning windows is never a fun job, but it has to be done. Most people hate doing it themselves because they always leave streaks or can never get it right. Use these tips to help make your windows shine.
Need to Give the Right Gift? Tips for Buying a Home Warranty
You care about your friends and family, and they care about their home. So a home warranty can be the perfect gift! Tips for buying a home warranty.
How to Clean Your Oven Range Filter
It's important to keep your oven range hood filter clean and do regular maintenance. Learn how to clean your oven range filter and why it helps.
How to Reduce Pet Damage in Your House
Pets can be cute and friendly, but even the most well-behaved ones can cause damage within your home. Learn how to limit damage from your four-legged friends.
Causes of Mold in the Kitchen and How to Avoid It
Mold can be a huge problem, not just for your house but for your health. See what causes mold and how to prevent it.
Which Way Should A Ceiling Fan Turn?
Which way should a ceiling fan turn? Keep costs low and temperatures comfortable by seeing which way ceiling fans should turn in the summer and winter.
Three-Way Switch Wiring: Facts and How-To
Tired of having to go back and forth to turn off your hallway light? Learn how three-way switch wiring allows you to control lighting from two different locations.
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.
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.
