appliances

6 Items You Need to Be Prepared to Replace

Emily Guy Birken — Mon, 06 May 2019 08:00:12 +0000

It can be easy to forget that the things you own will someday need to be replaced, particularly big ticket items. There's a certain sense of finality about owning an appliance, vehicle, or piece of furniture that may make it seem like you'll never have to worry about getting another one again. But there is a finite lifespan for everything, and ignoring that is how stressful financial emergencies can surprise you. If you haven't thought about the fact that your aging refrigerator will eventually need to be replaced, you won't be financially prepared when it finally gives up the ghost.

That's why it's a good idea to know the average lifespan of every big-ticket item you own, so you can plan ahead for when you will have to replace them. Here's what you need to know about when to replace your most expensive durable goods, and how you can save up for these replacements without stress.

1. Car

Even if you plan to drive your car until the wheels fall off, there will likely be a point at which you face the difficult question of whether to repair or replace your vehicle when it begins showing signs of age. In general, you can expect to get no more than 10 to 12 good years out of your car, and replacing it with a good quality used car can set you back as much as $15,000 to $20,000. And this is assuming your car has no major problems and you never get into an accident prior to the 10-year mark.

If you have a car payment, it's a good idea to continue to pay yourself the amount of that payment each month after you have satisfied the loan, so that when you inevitably reach the end of your car's life, you'll have money for a new set of wheels.

If you own your car outright, the good news is that it doesn't take much per month to save up $15,000 to $20,000 in 10 to 12 years. Set aside between $110 and $170 per month in a high-interest account, and you'll have created a new car nest egg.

2. Car tires

Of course, your car won't last 10-12 years on one set of tires, so you'll need to replace them. In general, you can expect to get five years out of a set of tires, so you'll probably have to replace your tires twice in the lifespan of your car.

A new set of tires cost an average of $525 to $725, according to Angie's List. To be prepared for this expense in five years, you'd need to set aside between $8.75 and $12 per month.

3. Mattress

While the myth that your mattress doubles in weight every eight years from the accumulation of dead skin, sweat, and dust mites is touted specifically to sell mattresses, it is true that your mattress does need to be replaced after a while. Depending on the mattress manufacturer, you should expect to replace your mattress every eight to 10 years. The true indicator that you need a new mattress is the quality of your sleep. If your aging mattress feels uncomfortable and you wake up sore and poorly rested, it may be time to buy a new one.

A new mattress costs between $800 and $1,000, which means you only need to set aside about $8.35 per month to be ready to buy a new mattress in 10 years. (See also: How to Buy a Mattress in 10 Minutes or Less)

4. Couch

We've all had the experience of being swallowed up by a fraying couch that has lost its structural integrity. But how long does it take a sofa to go from a comfy spot to watch TV to a black hole that seems to consume your guests?

The average life of a couch purchased today is between seven and 15 years. According to ForRent.com, the average sofa-buyer spends just over $1,000 for a new couch, although you can generally expect a longer lifespan the more money you spend on your couch initially.

To be ready for a new couch in seven years, you'll only need to set aside about $12 per month.

5. Kitchen appliances

According to This Old House, the average gas range can last about 15 years before needing to be replaced, while refrigerators have an average lifespan of 13 years, and dishwashers and microwaves are generally ready for retirement after nine years.

Costs vary pretty widely to replace each of these items, depending on the type and features of the new appliances you choose. However, according to Consumer Reports, the best-rated ranges cost between $1,500 and $2,000, while you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a good-quality new refrigerator, an average dishwasher will cost between $250 and $1,000, and a new microwave will set you back between $80 and $300, according to improvenet.

To replace your range in 15 years, you will need to set aside about $11 per month. Your refrigerator replacement in 13 years will see you setting aside between $3.85 and $7.69 per month. To get a new dishwasher in nine years, put aside between $2.32 and $9.25 per month, and for a new microwave, set aside $0.75 to $2.80 per month. (See also: 7 Ways to Save Big on Appliances)

6. Basement appliances

According to Consumer Reports, you can expect to get 10 years out of your washer and dryer before you need to replace them. Your water heater will give you about eight to 12 years of service before needing replacement. Your furnace should last about 15 to 20 years, while your central air conditioner should give about 10 to 15 years of service, according to This Old House.

To replace each of these items, you can expect to spend an average of $275 to $1,000 for a new washing machine, and $200 to $800 for a new dryer, according to Kitchens.com. It costs $800 to $1,500 for a new water heater, and an average of $5,400 for a new central a/c unit, according to Home Advisor. And it costs between $2,250 to $3,800 for a new furnace, according to Angie's List.

To replace your washing machine in 10 years, you'll need to set aside between $2.29 and $8.35 per month. For your dryer, you'll set aside $1.67 to $6.67 per month. To replace your water heater in 12 years, you'll need to set aside between $5.55 and $10.41 per month. You can replace an air conditioner in 10 to 15 years if you set aside $30 to $45 per month. And for your furnace, plan on setting aside $9.38 to $21.11 per month.

Creating a replacement fund

No matter where your possessions are in their life cycle, you can start preparing for their replacement today by starting a replacement savings fund. Setting aside between $208 and $322 per month will have you ready to replace each of these items in time.

But even if there's no way you can set aside several hundred a month to replace items that are currently working just fine, remember that any amount of money you can set aside each month will help keep the inevitable from being an emergency. Knowing that your possessions have a finite lifespan can help you prepare for the day when they will need to be replaced.

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This article is from Emily Guy Birken of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Things You Can Negotiate When Buying a Home

Dan Rafter — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 10:00:06 +0000

You've found the home of your dreams. Now comes the hard part: You need to make an offer that the sellers will accept. Of course, making a full-price offer will help you land almost any home. But what if you want to negotiate? Will this turn off the homeowners and scuttle your chances?

Not necessarily. Yes, many parts of the country are in the middle of a seller's market, giving homeowners an advantage in negotiations. But this doesn't mean that buyers can't negotiate on everything from move-in dates to selling price to repairs.

Don't be afraid to ask for concessions from sellers. Sellers might make a counteroffer, but if you're making reasonable requests, the odds are that they won't suddenly break off negotiations.

Here are the things you should feel comfortable about negotiating when buying a home.

1. Price

The first thing buyers think of when it's time to negotiate? The sales price.

Maybe you love the home you've just toured, but you think it's priced a bit too high. When it's time to submit your offer, ask for a lower sales price. Sellers can reject your offer, accept it, or make a counteroffer.

If you get a counteroffer, you now have a choice to make: Do you accept the new price offered by the seller, or do you try to shave a few more dollars off the price?

Don't be shy about asking for a lower asking price. But do your research first. Work with your real estate agent to determine what similar homes in the neighborhood are selling for and make an offer that fits within these comparable listings. Don't lowball the sellers with an unreasonable offer; that will get negotiations off to a bad start. Some sellers might simply end negotiations with you immediately. (See also: Ask Yourself These 5 Questions Before Buying a Home)

2. Closing date

Maybe you need to move into your new home quickly because your apartment lease is expiring. Or maybe you'd like a later move-in date, after your children finish the school year. You can negotiate the closing date of your home sale.

Closing day is when you, your real estate agent, and officials from your title insurance company, along with everyone representing the home's sellers, meet to sign the papers and present the certified checks that make your purchase of your new home official. When negotiating your home sale, you can request a quicker or a later closing date.

Don't be surprised, though, if the home's sellers push back. They, too, have their own preferred date when they want to move. You might need to negotiate some back-and-forth before settling on a closing date that works for everyone.

3. Closing costs

Buying a home isn't cheap. You'll have to pay plenty in closing costs, the fees that your mortgage lender and other third-party providers — such as title insurers — charge you at the closing table. Closing costs can vary, but you can expect to pay from 2 to 5 percent of your home's purchase price.

You can, though, request that the home's sellers pay for these closing costs. This has become a more common factor to negotiate as the price of homes has steadily risen.

Sellers have no duty to pay your closing costs, of course. But many will agree to pay these costs out of the profits from their home sale as a way of keeping a real estate transaction alive. (See also: Here's What's Included in a Home's Closing Costs)

4. Major appliances

Some sellers plan to take their refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers with them when they sell their house. But maybe you'd like them to leave these major appliances behind. After all, you might be cash-strapped after buying a home. Having these pricey appliances in place when you move in could be a boon to your bottom line.

Many sellers won't object to leaving appliances because they weren't planning on taking them anyway. It's important to get in writing what stays with the home after the sale and what goes.

5. Repairs

After your offer is accepted, it's time to schedule your home inspection. An inspector will tour the home you are buying and point out any potential problems. If the problems are too severe, you might be able to walk away from the sale without losing your earnest money deposit.

But often, inspectors find smaller problems with a home. Maybe a furnace is nearing the end of its expected life, or maybe the kitchen sink's faucet drips. After viewing your inspection report, you can request that the sellers repair these more minor problems before you close on the home. You can also request that the sellers provide you a financial credit at closing so that you can hire a contractor to fix the problems on your own.

To keep the home closing on schedule, many sellers will agree to these requests. (See also: Thinking of Skipping the Home Inspection? Here's What It Will Cost You)

6. Furniture and other large fixtures

Love that swing set in the backyard? Or maybe you think the oversized couch in the living room is perfect for your new home. You can always request that the sellers leave specific items behind.

Some sellers will be happy to leave behind, for example, a swing set that's pounded into the earth of their backyard. Others might plan to purchase brand-new furniture after they move, so won't mind leaving behind a couch or love seat.

You never know unless you ask, so don't be shy about negotiating over these items.

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This article is from Dan Rafter of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

11 Home and Houseware Upgrades That Prove You're Finally a Grownup

Camilla Cheung — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 08:30:10 +0000

Your home says a lot about you. Are you still in an adolescent phase, barely keeping things together with take-out containers all over your futon, or are you ready for some real adulting? Impress your friends and prove to your parents that you're a grownup with these easy and affordable home decor upgrades.

1. A quality chef's knife

You know you're a grownup when you have a knife you love so much, you're willing to get it sharpened in order to keep it in tip-top shape. When you've cooked enough at home, you know having a quality chef's knife is a must.

Don't worry, a quality knife doesn't have to put you in the poorhouse. Yes, the Wüsthofs and Shuns of the world may be the ultimate standard, but the truly savvy adult knows that top quality can be had from slightly less pricey brands, such as Victorinox, or less-expensive lines from the top brands, such as the Wüsthof Pro line. (See also: 31 Essential Kitchen Tools All Frugal Cooks Need)

2. Blackout curtains

Sure, when you were in your college days, any old thing that could keep the light out when you were sleeping off last night's … study session … was fine. A sheet tacked up over the window was plenty for your needs. But now that you're a bill-paying adult, it's time to get some nicer window dressings.

You can pay a pretty penny for quality blackout curtains, but you can get some surprisingly luxurious and grownup looking ones from places like Target, World Market, IKEA, and Amazon. And instead of paying through the nose for custom lined curtains, clip some blackout lining to the back using curtain clips and rings. After all, you need your beauty sleep for all the adulting you'll be doing early in the morning.

3. A table centerpiece

Nothing says you've made it to adulthood like a centerpiece for your table. A nice vase, or a tray with some candles on it tells the world that you've settled into your home.

The cheapest place to get vases and knick-knacks is the thrift store, where you can find an abundance of pitchers, vases, baskets, and trays for a couple bucks each.

4. Framed prints

Throw away those music festival posters, or at least frame them so they look like art. Framed prints make a home look so much more put together.

And if you want to go with custom framing, you should know it's a bit of a splurge. If you must custom frame something, make use of coupons at craft stores or promo codes for online custom framing retailers like Framebridge. Cheaper alternatives include shopping for already-framed art at discount stores like TJMaxx, or framing your own art with ready-made frames — IKEA has some lovely inexpensive options.

5. Houseplants

It takes some real adult skill to keep a houseplant alive. I should know, I've killed plenty. That's why I now invest in succulents and air plants.

The clearance section of the Home Depot garden center is where I've found a lot of my succulents and plants. I've also gotten a lot of cuttings from a friend for free, and actually had success propagating some of them. (See also: 6 Surprising Ways a Houseplant Can Save You Money)

6. Supportive pillows

You know you're getting older when you buy a pillow specifically for its neck or back support. The most important thing about a pillow is that it holds your head in a neutral position. Side sleepers need a thicker, firmer pillow (such as memory foam pillows), whereas back sleepers need a pillow that supports their head without disrupting the natural curve of the neck.

It can be hard to find the perfect pillow for you, and I honestly think this is one purchase that is worth the investment. Look for pillows that have a money-back guarantee so you can try it out risk-free, as it takes a few nights to determine if a pillow is a good fit.

7. Multiple sources of lighting

A ceiling light can do the job of illuminating a room, but decorators agree that multiple sources of lighting are more soothing and pleasing to the eye. One upgrade that can make your home feel much cozier is buying a few floor and table lamps to diversify your lighting.

Discount stores like TJMaxx are great for finding affordable lighting. If you'd like to save a little more, you can also look at architectural salvage stores like the Habitat for Humanity Restore, or thrift shops.

8. A proper filing system

It might seem boring, but it's so essential to keep track of bills, medical records, receipts, tax returns, and other important documents. After a while, throwing them all in a drawer (or piling them on the dining table) and hoping they'll sort themselves out just doesn't cut it anymore.

IKEA has some sleek looking file cabinets for under $100, and check online on Overstock and Amazon for some basic options. (See also: 11 Essential Documents You Should Keep in Your Safe)

9. Guest-friendly bathroom amenities

When your friends come over, is there enough toilet paper? How about a place to dry their hands that isn't the bath towel you used this morning? Put a little thought into what guests might need if they use your bathroom.

You don't need much, just a few hand towels, a soap dispenser, and a toilet paper holder. There are endless budget-friendly options at home decor or major department stores. Make sure you tuck your toiletries out of sight and bam! You've got a grownup bathroom.

10. Matching dishes

Having matching dishes on the table is definitely a step towards being an adult. White dishes are always practical and can always be accessorized with other colors.

You can dish out a lot for matching dinnerware at department stores, but go to Amazon, IKEA, or Target and you can get a serviceable set of matching plates and bowls for a super affordable price. A set of eight will usually be enough for dinner parties and guests.

11. A slow cooker

Whether it's a basic slow-cooker, or one of the uber-popular electric pressure cookers, having an appliance that cooks your dinner for you while you do other stuff is one of the marks of a busy adult.

For the cult-favorite Instant Pot or other appliances, put a price alert on the Amazon listing using Camel Camel Camel so you'll be notified when they have their periodic sales, which are the cheapest way to get one of these appliances (unless you lucked out by finding a brand-new Instant Pot at the thrift store, like I did).

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This article is from Camilla Cheung of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

4 Questions to Ask Before Buying Refurbished Appliances

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 17 May 2017 08:30:12 +0000

Some form of risk comes with any purchase, whether it's a new or refurbished item. Fortunately, refurbished appliances and electronics can be a great deal, if you do your research first. (See also: Why Refurbished Electronics Are Such a Great Deal)

Refurbished products are items that have been used, opened, or slightly damaged in some way. They have been repaired to return them to a "like-new" status. If you're thinking about buying a refurbished item to save some cash, ask yourself the following questions first.

Is it a good deal?

Large appliances are designed to last a long time with little maintenance, so you can feel confident about buying a one- or two-year-old refurbished appliance. As a general rule, if a refurbished item includes a full warranty, working parts, and significant savings, it's a good deal.

Another way to quickly determine whether a particular purchase is worth it is to subtract the amount of depreciation from the original cost of the appliance. For instance, if a new appliance is $500 and is expected to last 10 years it would have $50 depreciation per year. If you are purchasing the item after two years, you'd ideally want to find something that is under $400 ($500 - two years of $50 depreciation = $400). (For help with this number, check out: Life Expectancy of 6 Major Appliances)

Can you find a better price elsewhere?

Use a price comparison site like PriceGrabber to first determine where you can get the best deal. Then, compare the total costs of refurbished versus new appliances. New appliances frequently come with free or discounted delivery, which can save you quite a bit off the total cost. Inquire about shipping costs before deciding on a used appliance. (See also: 10 Stupid Shopping Mistakes Even Smart People Make)

How can you find a reputable seller?

It's important to choose a reputable retailer. While you might be able to save more money with a private seller or local repair shop, there’s a chance you won't be able to do anything if the item turns out to be a lemon.

You can find great deals on refurbished items both in-store and online. Consumer Reports suggests purchasing refurbished electronics at Amazon, but warns that they don't always include warranties. You can also see customer reviews on Amazon, which can help you make your purchasing decision.

What about warranty coverage?

Refurbished appliances are often covered by a warranty from the manufacturer or store. If the appliance has no warranty, or a very short one, it might be a warning sign that you're getting a dud.

Even if the seller doesn't offer a new warranty, you might still receive what's left of the original warranty. These warranties tend to last between 30 days and one year, so they aren't usually as long as you would get with a new item. And while you can add an extended warranty to brand-new appliances, you can't do the same with refurbished items. Some warranties only cover new parts, so you'll want to inquire about exactly what the warranty covers.

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

34 Smart Ways to Cut Your Electric Bill

Dr Penny Pincher — Wed, 12 Apr 2017 08:30:15 +0000

I was pleasantly surprised to see that my February natural gas bill was only $65 — which isn't bad for heating an entire house during an Iowa winter. But my electric bill for the month was over $100. There must be some things I can do to use less electricity and lower my bill. (See also: 8 Ways You're Wasting Electricity Without Realizing It)

One way to save money on your bill is to change your behavior and pay more attention to your usage of electricity — no investment required. Another way is to install some upgrades. These involve spending money on projects, and investments to improve the energy efficiency of your home and lower your utility bills every month. (See also: 10 Ways Anyone Can Go Solar and Save on Energy)

Here are some smart things you can do to use less electricity and start saving money on your electric bill.

1. Turn off auxiliary heating devices

I was using a space heater to keep some plants warm, but this ran up my electric bill. I'll use more efficient heating pads instead.

2. Enjoy some nonelectric evenings

Every once in awhile, switch off the circuit breaker and have an evening with no electricity. Break out the flashlights, candles, books, and board games. You don't have to wait for Earth Hour to turn out the lights and save money on electricity.

3. Dry clothes outside

Weather permitting, you can hang laundry outside to dry instead of running an energy-intensive dryer.

4. Turn up central A/C temperature

Turn up your thermostat a few degrees to run your central air conditioner less.

5. Use someone else's electricity

Turn off the lights, appliances, and air conditioning at your house and go somewhere else. You could go to the library or work at a coffee shop.

6. Use your ceiling fans correctly

Run ceiling fans to make rooms comfortable with less energy than running A/C. Set the ceiling fan direction for the correct season — in summer, a ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise when viewed from below.

7. Use fans, open windows

Use box fans or oscillating fans to cool occupied spaces and run central A/C less on hot days. Open windows at night to take advantage of cool air. (See also: 5 Best Fans)

8. Turn off unused lights

Get in the habit of turning off lights when leaving a room. It's easy enough to turn the lights back on if they are needed again.

9. Turn off unused electronics

Turn off computers, game consoles, and TVs when no one is using them. (See also: The Cost of Standby Power)

10. Run full loads

Run full loads in your dishwasher, clothes washer, and clothes dryer for maximum efficiency.

11. Use cold water

Reduce your use of hot water in your clothes washer, and select cold or warm water wash cycles instead whenever possible.

12. Run the clothes dryer at night

Run your clothes dryer and other energy intensive appliances at night if your electric utility provides an off-peak hours discount.

13. Clean lint trap on clothes dryer

Remove lint from the lint trap on your clothes dryer to maximize airflow and minimize energy use.

14. Turn off the dry cycle on your dishwasher

Instead of using a heated dry cycle, I simply open the dishwasher door and let dishes air dry.

15. Install LED light bulbs

I am replacing all of my incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs that provide great lighting and use a fraction of the electricity. (See also: Best Energy Efficient Bulbs)

16. Remove "extra" light bulbs

If a fixture has more light than you need, remove some of the bulbs so it will use less power.

17. Take advantage of water heater savings

Here are some ways to reduce electricity consumption for hot water:

Lower the temperature setting on your hot water tank.
Install an insulated jacket around the tank.
Insulate the first six feet of hot water supply pipe.

18. Sleep outside

It gets cool outside at night, even during the summer. You can take advantage of this by turning off your air conditioning and sleeping outside in a tent or on a screened-in porch.

19. Remove underutilized appliances

If you have an extra freezer or refrigerator in your garage that doesn't have much in it, consider getting rid of it to save a few dollars worth of electricity every month.

20. Skip the blow dryer for your hair

Blow dryers are loud and use a lot of power. They also dry out your hair over time, so use a towel to dry your hair instead.

21. Use a toaster oven

Use a toaster oven to heat up small items such as a sandwich or slice of pizza instead of firing up the full-sized oven.

22. Choose a flashlight over a night light

I keep an LED flashlight next to my bed instead of trying to light large areas of the house with nightlights that use electricity all night long.

23. Charge your gadgets at work

If there are outlets handy at the office, you might as well charge your phone, tablet, and laptop there instead of at home. (See also: Best Solar Chargers)

24. Use timers for holiday lights

I bought a digital timer to automatically turn my holiday lights off and on so they never run all night.

25. Change your furnace filter

You will get better airflow and spend less on central A/C if you change your furnace filter every few months.

26. Think broom, not vacuum cleaner

A broom is quiet and uses no electricity. I am trying to break my habit of reaching for the vacuum cleaner to clean up every mess in my shop.

27. Upgrade motion detectors

Install motion detectors on outside lights to prevent leaving lights on.

28. Install Energy Star appliances

Make energy efficiency a top criterion when selecting new appliances.

29. Choose a high efficiency A/C

If you have an older central A/C unit, you may be able to cut your cooling cost significantly by replacing it with a more energy efficient model.

30. Make sure you have insulated windows

Replace leaky or single pane windows with double or triple pane windows charged with inert gas to reduce A/C cost.

31. Install a programmable thermostat

You can install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust A/C temperature when no one is home.

32. Add solar panels

Install solar panels to generate your own electricity and drastically cut your electric bill. In some locations, you may even be able to sell any excess electricity that you generate. (See also: Cut Your Electric Bill With Solar Panels)

33. Install a skylight or light pipe

If the sun is shining outside, you can bring free light in from outside using a skylight or light pipe.

34. Bicycle generator

You can generate your own electricity to run electronic devices and even some appliances by using a bicycle generator.

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This article is from Dr Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Ways to Get the Most Out of a Home Warranty

Carrie Kirby — Wed, 15 Feb 2017 10:30:29 +0000

If you have ever bought a home with a real estate agent, chances are they told you they convinced the seller to include a home warranty in the deal.

Unfortunately, those home warranties often turn out to be difficult to use. I have a friend in Florida whose central air system failed twice while the home was still under warranty, and the company found a different reason each time to deny the claim. I myself have had home warranty companies (initially) deny a claim for a clogged drain and a broken garbage disposal. Even when the warranty does cover a problem, many consumers are disappointed with the quality of the repair service.

Is it impossible to get results from a home warranty? No, it's not. While I'm not a huge fan of the policies, I personally have had home warranties pay for themselves several times over. It wasn't easy, though. Here are some tactics for getting the most out of your home warranty.

Shop Around for Policies

Not all home warranties are created equal. If you're buying your own warranty, first check the company's reputation, and then look at the different levels of coverage it offers. If the warranty is being given to you with a home sale, you can ask your real estate agent the same questions.

When Something Breaks, Contact the Warranty Company First

You have no heat in the dead of winter! Shouldn't you call the furnace company first and worry about getting compensated for it later? Not so fast. The home warranty company may not cover a repair if you hire someone first, and later contact them.

Some warranty companies offer 24/7 support, but if the warranty company puts you on hold forever or can't send a technician for a week, you may be in a tough spot. What you do then comes down to how much you want your claim covered, and how much damage — like frozen pipes — might occur while you wait.

Read Your Contract Before Calling

When filing your claim, explain exactly how your problem qualifies for warranty coverage. For instance, say your warranty covers appliances but not plumbing. Your dishwasher failed and caused water damage to your kitchen floor. Don't call and simply tell them you have flood damage in your kitchen. Call and report that your warranty-covered dishwasher malfunctioned and damaged your floor.

Be Persistent, Both With Phone Agents and Service Providers

Continuing with the above scenario, if the phone agent tells you your floor damage isn't covered, have the contract handy so you can cite the passages that support your claim. And if the agent isn't helping you, ask to be transferred to a manager. Follow up in writing or by email if denied.

Once a service provider is dispatched, be present for the visit. Some providers will show up, charge the visit fee, and say that the repair isn't covered — without thoroughly investigating. If they try to say it's not covered, point out why it should be. Contact their supervisor if necessary before paying the fee.

Ask If You Have a Choice of Service Providers

Before agreeing to allow a service provider into your home, check their online reviews. In my experience, home warranty companies sometimes send low-rated providers. You can look up a provider on Angie's List or Yelp quickly while on the phone with the service company. If it's a terrible company, ask to have a better one dispatched.

Ask If You Have the Option of Taking a Cash Payment

Warranty companies do sometimes offer cash instead of replacing an appliance. On the downside, the cash they pay probably won't cover your true replacement cost. On the upside, if you get the cash, you can choose the model and installer you want.

My home warranty company offered a $500 check when our water heater broke shortly after we bought our current home. Our new water heater cost twice that with installation, but we were glad to have the flexibility to upgrade the unit and work with a more reputable plumber than the warranty company initially sent.

Be Persistent Even If You're Not Sure Who's Right

The home warranty initially refused to cover my clogged drain because it was in the basement, leading to the outside of the house, and they only covered the inside the house. Was this argument valid? I wasn't sure, but because it required jackhammering and repairing my basement floor, it was going to be a very expensive repair — so I just kept at them. I emailed, I faxed, I called. It took weeks, but I finally got the company to pay for the repair — probably just to get me off their back.

Don't Schedule Service If You Know the Repair Isn't Covered

When the home warranty company dispatches a service provider to your house, they'll charge you a visit fee of $35 to $100 — whether they fix anything or not. So there's no sense calling them for a repair that falls outside the coverage, and there's certainly no sense misrepresenting your repair. You'll just lose the service fee.

Keep a Close Eye on Older Appliances and Systems During the Warranty Period

Is your furnace making a funny noise, but you can live with it? If your warranty expires soon, it may be worth paying the visit fee to have a technician check it out, just in case that noise indicates a major problem that will come to a head just after the warranty expires.

Keep Your Expectations in Check

Don't get surprised or angry when your home warranty provider tells you they won't cover a claim. Go in with a lot of patience and persistence on tap, and try your best to get something out of them. In the end, if you end up with a less-than-perfect repair or a smaller-than-desired check, acknowledge that at least you got something. Life's too short to waste time fuming at a company that angered you.

This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Ways to Decide if It's a "Fund-Worthy" Emergency

Tim Lemke — Mon, 28 Nov 2016 11:31:04 +0000

One crucial component of a sound financial plan is to have a solid emergency fund to protect yourself against unexpected expenses. This fund should cover at least three months' worth of living expenses, and enable you to get through any crisis without too much financial hardship.

But how do you to determine when to use your emergency fund? What kinds of expenses qualify as actual "emergencies?" Before you tap into your fund, ask yourself these questions first.

1. Is It a Want or a Need?

This should be common sense, but it's amazing how many people can't discern between something they desire versus something they require. Money to help pay for an important medical procedure is likely a need; it's not a good idea to risk your health just because you don't want to raid your emergency fund. Money to pay the rent or avoid default on a loan would also fall in the "need" category. On the flip side, a new cellphone when your current one is working just fine is probably not what the fund is for. In reality, there are very few needs in life, and they should all generally center on your basic survival.

2. Is It Unexpected?

Christmas is an expensive time. But you have an entire year to prepare for the gift-giving bonanza. A new baby is costly, but you had a nine months to save up and get ready for the new arrival. If you've had time to anticipate an event happening and save accordingly, it's best to avoid dipping into your emergency fund to pay for it. Save your emergency fund for things such as layoffs, broken appliances, medical emergencies, and other things that you truly didn't see coming.

3. Is It Urgent?

A refrigerator that no longer works is something you probably want to replace right away. A car that breaks down is something you'll want to get fixed immediately if you rely on it to get to work. But there are many bad events that aren't "emergencies" in the sense of requiring immediate action.

4. Can You Defer Payments?

Let's say your heat pump is busted and needs to be replaced. Price tag is in the thousands. But it's wintertime, so this seems like an emergency, right? Perhaps, but it's worth finding out if you can pay for the new heat pump in installments, or even avoid paying anything immediately. It may be possible to pay for this pricey item over time and even avoid interest payments. This doesn't get you off the hook in paying for the item, but it may buy you some time to save a little extra or earn extra income so you don't have to raid your emergency fund. Just be sure to read the fine print of any agreement.

5. What Are the Financial Consequences if You Don't Pay?

It's often tempting to use a credit card or loan to borrow funds when an emergency happens. But when you borrow, you're likely to pay interest, so you'll end up paying more in the long run. High-interest credit cards, in particular, can have a severe impact on your overall financial well-being, and payday loans are even worse. There may be times when borrowing may be necessary in order to maintain some cash reserves (you never want to tap out an emergency fund completely), but it's important to look at the broader, long-term impact on your finances. And don't even think about not paying at all, as that could negatively impact your credit score.

6. Are You Legally Obligated to Pay?

If your car breaks down, you may want tap your emergency fund to get it fixed, but no one is requiring you to do so. Things are different, however, when you are faced with a situation where you are required, by law, to pay up. Perhaps it's a tax bill, or a legal judgment against you. In these cases, it's almost always best to pay — there could fines, or even jail time. If dipping into your emergency fund helps you avoid trouble with the law, it's worth it.

7. Have You Exhausted All Your Saving Options?

Let's say you have a roof that's leaky and in need of big repairs. Before you shell out thousands of dollars to a major contractor, examine first whether you can find money by cutting everyday expenses. It's possible that you could do a small repair now, aggressively save for a few months, then take care of the bigger job. It's amazing how much money you can "find" by taking a knife to your spending.

8. Is the Emergency for Yourself, or Another Person?

There may be times when a friend or loved one comes to you in desperate need of money. You may be tempted to raid your emergency fund to address their problem. This is a very tricky situation, as it's generally in our nature to want to help those close to us. But remember that your emergency fund is designed to address emergencies that might impact you, not other people. It's fine to give loved ones a hand, but it gets dangerous when you put your own financial health at risk to make it happen.

This doesn't mean you should be a straight-up coldhearted person, however. If you believe that you may encounter instances when friends or family members will be in need, consider making your emergency fund larger to take that possibility into account. Even better, open a separate sub-account, so that your own emergency fund remains untouched.

This article is from Tim Lemke of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

These Are the 7 Features Home Buyers Want Most

Camilla Cheung — Thu, 29 Sep 2016 09:00:07 +0000

Interested in buying a new home? It's a good idea to be aware of what new homebuyers are looking for. I interviewed Markus Brown, a Realtor in Orange County, California, about what he sees buyers looking for in potential new homes. The following features are currently generating a lot of demand, which may potentially translate to higher home values.

1. An Open Floor Plan

The days of compartmentalized rooms all separated by walls and doors are gone, and the era of connected living continues to be one of top new home trends. Specifically, buyers "want the kitchen to be open to the family room, which creates the "great room" as it's most typically defined," says Brown. Homebuyers are also looking for an open floor plan kitchen, as it allows people to flow to and from the heart of the home during gatherings.

2. Hardwood Floors

Forget the wall-to-wall carpet, today's homebuyers are looking for hardwood floors on the main floor of the home, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Hardwood flooring looks especially beautiful when flowing throughout an open floor plan.

3. A Modern Kitchen

New homebuyers are looking not just for an updated kitchen, but a modern kitchen design that hits the latest trends. Granite continues to trend, but the pattern in the granite tends to be characterized by more "movement and flow," according to Brown, as opposed to a busy, speckled look. Quartz aggregates are a popular alternative for countertops. Floor tile has been growing in size, with large rectangular tiles (and fewer grout lines) leading the trends. Keeping hardwood flooring flowing throughout the kitchen and living spaces is also very popular.

The trendiest kitchens have a large island that doubles as an eating space, combining cooking and eating/entertaining in one feature. Open shelving has seen a resurgence in interest, but it can be a polarizing feature that some love and some don't.

Brown points out that modern backsplash finishes are important, and he has seen a trend toward the "subway tile patterns that were popular in the 20s and 30s." Pullout shelves and self-closing doors in the kitchen are also a plus.

4. Plenty of Storage

Along with an open floor plan comes a need for ample storage to keep those open spaces clutter free. New homebuyers are looking for pantries, linen closets, and storage areas such as a separate laundry room, mudroom, and cabinetry in the garage to help them stay organized and to keep the clutter out of sight. In fact, the most recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reports that 92% of buyers want a laundry room, making it the most desired feature of a new home.

5. Multi-Generational Living

Many new homebuyers appreciate the possibility to house an older parent or family member, if not full-time, at least part-time with comfortable guest quarters. A guest room on the ground floor with a full bathroom is one of the features that makes multigenerational living more comfortable for everyone.

6. Multi-Functional Space

Something many new homebuyers are looking for is a "homework loft," "gaming loft," or some kind of multifunctional space within the home. This could be a desk located on a second floor loft outside the bedrooms, or an area off the living room or kitchen which can be used for various needs. "The loft and great room are mutually dependent in many ways," says Brown, because along with greater open space comes a need for a place for kids to hang out separately from adults.

7. Indoor-Outdoor Living

Today's homebuyers are looking for ways to incorporate the outdoors into their daily lives. Millennials and younger buyers, in particular, are increasingly demanding a patio and multiple outdoor areas. Outdoor living space also increases the functional square footage of a home. Having an outdoor kitchen and entertaining space can be very attractive to new homebuyers. Sliding doors or French doors leading to a large patio that encourages flow between indoors and outdoors are often coveted features.

The "California room" or "outdoor living room" is an increasingly popular concept, according to Brown. A California room is a space that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, usually comprised of a covered patio or sunroom, comfortable furnishings, and easy access to both inside and outside.

8. Energy Efficiency and Eco-Conscious Living

Energy efficiency is a feature that is becoming increasingly important. Energy Star rated appliances, windows, and an Energy Star rated whole home were desired by over 80% of new homebuyers. Features like a whole house fan, solar "readiness" (infrastructure in place for solar panels), solar water heater, heat pump heater/air conditioner, and "smart" thermostats can all appeal to the eco-conscious buyer. "In certain areas of the country," notes Brown, "drought-tolerant and low-maintenance landscaping are also important."

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This article is from Camilla Cheung of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

4 Ways a Home Energy Audit Will Save You Money

Dan Rafter — Tue, 30 Aug 2016 09:30:29 +0000

Feel like your home's utility bills are too high? You're not alone. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that the average monthly electrical bill for U.S. homes stood at just over $114 a month in 2014. And the U.S. Energy Information Administration suggests that U.S. homes relying on natural gas would spend an average of $578 during the winter for heat.

If your monthly electric and gas bills are too high, it might be time to call in an energy auditor to perform a home energy audit. During an audit, an inspector will tour your home and run tests to determine where your home is losing energy, and money — potentially helping you shave 15% or more off your utility bills.

Here are four ways in which a home energy audit can save you money.

Inspire You to Install More Efficient Windows

An energy auditor will take a close look at your home's windows. It's more costly to cool and heat your home when leaky windows are letting that hot and cold air escape. Your furnace and air conditioning units have to work harder, consuming more energy, and therefore money.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR program, homeowners can save $126 to $465 a year in energy costs when replacing drafty single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR-qualified replacements. That figure is less impressive when homeowners replace inefficient double-pane windows, but you can still save from $27 to $111 a year with more efficient versions, according to ENERGY STAR.

Identify Other Leaks in Your Home's Envelope

Hot and cool air can escape through plenty of cracks in your home's seal. That's why energy auditors will test your home with a blower door. According to RESNET, this is a powerful fan that an auditor will mount in the frame of an exterior door. The fan will then pull air out of your home, lowering the air pressure inside your residence.

The higher outside air pressure will then flow into your home through all of its unsealed cracks and openings. Your auditor will then use diagnostic tools to determine how much air is leaking from your home and from where it is escaping. Sealing these leaky areas will reduce your monthly energy bills.

Help You Determine if You Need More Insulation

A home energy audit will also help you decide if your home's walls lack proper insulation.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that U.S. homeowners can save an average of 15% on their home's heating and cooling costs, or an average of 11% on their home's total energy costs, by air-sealing their homes and adding insulation to their attics and walls.

During an inspection, an energy auditor will use thermal cameras to determine hot and cold spots in a home's walls and flooring. This will help the auditor determine where your home is lacking proper insulation. Installing new energy-efficient insulation can then have a significant impact on your home's monthly utility bills.

Inspire You to Replace That Washing Machine From 1995

You might be thrilled that your home's washing machine is 20 years old and still chugging along, or that you haven't had to replace your refrigerator in 15 years. But those reliable, old appliances might be costing you too much money each month.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that home appliances account for about 13% of your home's total energy costs. Replacing older, inefficient models can save you money each month.

The Department of Energy says that ENERGY STAR-qualified washing machines and refrigerators are about 20% more energy efficient than are standard models. ENERGY STAR-qualified dishwashers only use about 5.8 gallons of water each cycle or less, according to the Department of Energy, while dishwashers purchased before 1994 use an average of more than 10 gallons for each cycle.

Newer, more energy-efficient models of these appliances will cost more. But those savings will add up each month. Do some quick math to determine how long it will take before your average energy savings outweigh the extra cost of buying an energy-efficient refrigerator, dishwasher, or washer and dryer.

Have you ever had an energy audit done on your home? What did it tell you about your home's energy use?

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This article is from Dan Rafter of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Sneaky Home Money Pits That Sap Your Savings

Dr Penny Pincher — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 10:00:14 +0000

There are so many expenses associated with paying the bills for a home that it is easy to miss money leaks that are costing you big dollars. Putting a plug into these leaks can make a big difference in your budget. From old-school thermostats to faulty plumbing, here are some of the top money-pits to watch for:

1. Old School Thermostats

I recently replaced my 1980s era thermostat with a new one for about $50. Why? Because the old thermostat was leaking money every day. My new thermostat is programmable, so I can automatically avoid heating or cooling the house when no one is home. It's paid for itself in just the first few months.

2. Drafty Windows

It may sound extreme to replace windows to save money on your heating bill, but I was paying hundreds of dollars every month for propane when I moved into an old house with drafty single pane windows. Old windows are almost as inefficient as having your windows open all winter. Replacing them will reduce your utility bill and add to the resale value of your house. If replacing windows is too big of a project, you can install clear plastic film over your windows for a few dollars each to help keep the money from flowing out.

3. Old HVAC Systems

I once lived in a house with a 40-year-old furnace. My home inspector said it was built like a tank, and I think it was about as energy efficient as a tank, too. If you plan to stay in your house for a few years, an energy efficient HVAC system can easily pay for itself through lower energy bills. Plus, the new system will increase the value of your house.

4. Poor Insulation

Don't be fooled: It can be hard to notice a poorly insulated home because the furnace can compensate for this by running more to try to maintain the desired temperature. The most effective place to upgrade your home's insulation is in the attic, since warm air is less dense than cold air and a lot of heat transfer happens through the attic and roof as warm air rises. If your floors are cold, you may benefit from adding insulation under your house, as well. Insulating walls can be a bigger project, but insulation can be often blown into the joint space in walls in a matter of just hours.

5. Old Appliances

Old appliances are energy hogs compared with newer, more efficient models — especially refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers. It may be hard to notice that old appliance sitting there quietly sucking down extra electricity all the time, but the cost adds up every month. Some utility companies offer incentives to take away old appliances in order to encourage people to replace them with energy efficient models. And you may even qualify for tax credits related to energy efficient appliances.

6. Bad Mortgage Rates

When you got your mortgage, you probably shopped around and got the best rate you could find. But have you checked your rate lately? You may be paying more than you need to for interest every month. If you plan to stay in your house for a few years, refinancing your mortgage to get a better interest rate can help you hang on to more of your money each month instead of giving it to the banker.

7. Leaky Roof or Gutters

You won't get a bill right away if you have a leaky roof or gutters that don't work properly, but deferred maintenance is like a time bomb that can cost you a huge amount of money in the future in the form of repair bills and reduced property value. Take care of water leaks before they become a money pit.

8. Long Commutes

If your home is far away from work, shopping, and school, your commute is costing you time and money every day. Unfortunately, avoiding this money pit may require moving to a different house. I was able to move about 10 minutes closer to my work location, and it made a big difference.

9. Too Much House

If your house is bigger than you really need, you are paying extra every month for your mortgage, utility bills, and property taxes. Consider downsizing to avoid sinking money into paying for space you are not fully utilizing.

Which of these home money pits are costing you money?

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6 Smart Ways to Help Your Appliances Retain Their Value

Mikey Rox — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 10:00:06 +0000

Unlike any car you buy, your home appliances can retain their value so long as you give them a little TLC. Maximize the life span and potential resale return of your washer, dryer, fridge, and more with some basic maintenance.

1. Give the Inside the What-For

Begin with a thorough clean of the inside of your fridge, microwave, stovetop, and dishwasher. Be sure to test all the buttons on your keypad control panels — even the ones you don't use every day. Check for deterioration in the rubber seals around your dishwasher — a minor crack can quickly lead to a flooded kitchen. (Or, YA know, when your husband puts laundry detergent in it because you ran out of dishwasher liquid.)

Mike Clear, VP of operations at American Home Shield, a home warranty provider, offers a few more pro tips.

"Avoid using sopping wet sponges or rags to clean your appliances' keypad control panels," he says. "You may be slowly damaging the control panels on your appliances during your routine cleaning which could eventually short-circuit the panel."

2. Work Your Way to the Basement

As temperatures heat up and A/C takes center stage, show your furnace and heating system some TLC in the offseason to be sure you're not left in the cold next winter.

"Keep the area around your air returns clean and unobstructed," Clear says. "Extra dirt on your filter means the unit will have to work too hard and run longer, making it less cost-efficient and reducing its life span. Check to see if the cover near your furnace's filter is in place. If not, you could be risking fire and other safety hazards. Regular maintenance by a professional should be scheduled well before cold weather sets back in."

That last point is important: Don't forgo regular maintenance. Even if you inspect your furnace and everything looks fine, leaving untreated problems to only get worse will only inconvenience you further when you need it most.

3. Mind the Hard-Water Buildup

Those who live in hard water areas (70% of Americans do) struggle with hard mineral scale buildup, which can shorten the life of appliances.

Products like Ionizer Armor condition the water and reduce the amount of minerals that make their way into the appliances using magnet technology. Just snap it onto the water line and forget it —lest you want to live in a Zest commercial.

4. Consider Your Appliances' Cosmetic Aesthetic

It's not just the moving parts that contribute to the resale value of your appliances — they have to look good inside and out.

"Periodically cleaning out the entire contents of a freezer/refrigerator and doing a deep clean keeps the appliance looking new and removes any remnant odors or stains," says Wes Taft, co-founder of moveCHECK, an app to make moves less stressful. "The longer those sit, the harder they are to get rid of. An appliance with a stain or dull finish will linger in a potential buyer's mind as a concern when making an offer on the home or the appliance."

So, yeah, it's time to ditch all those science experiments hiding behind the expired milk.

5. Keep the A/C Too Legit to Quit

During the warmer months, it's crucial that your air filter and A/C system are working properly. You know this homebody requires climate control!

"Check your air filters regularly," advises Clear. "Cleaning or replacing your A/C system's air filter can help prevent damage, inefficiencies, and keeps your air clean. Schedule annual maintenance on your A/C now, so you can be sure your unit is in top shape before being put to the test with this summer's high temps."

Try not to wait for the first heat wave or minor A/C hiccup. You'll be kicking yourself (and sweating) later if you put off A/C maintenance until after it breaks down.

6. Know When to Call a Professional

We're all about DIY here at Wise Bread, but if you're in over your head when trying to fix a broken appliance, don't be ashamed to call in a knowledgeable professional. Eating crow is much better than being electrocuted to death.

"Be mindful of what may seem like a quick DIY fix," says Clear. "This can be especially disastrous when it comes to fixing large and expensive appliances and home systems. Leave it to the pros."

What do you do to help your appliances retain their value? Let me know in the comments below.

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: How to Buy 3 Major Appliances for Just $700

Amy Lu — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 09:30:27 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found helpful articles on how to get the best deals on major household appliances, simple ways to save at Walgreens, and how to spend less on your family vacation.

The 5 Best Vacuum Sealers

Andrea Cannon — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 10:00:12 +0000

A vacuum sealer can help keep food fresher, longer. In fact, some sealers promise to keep food fresher for 3-5 times as long, which can save you a lot of money over time. Once you vacuum seal the bags, the food won’t take up as much room in your pantry, fridge, and freezer — saving you valuable space.

Investing in a vacuum sealer means you can stop throwing food — and money — away. Now that your food will last longer, it can mean fewer trips to the grocery store, more affordable bulk buying, and quicker cooking and meat marinating.

What Is a Vacuum Sealer?

A vacuum sealer applies heat to remove the air from bags and containers and create an airtight seal. It can seal any bags so that air is not allowed to enter and freshness is not allowed to escape. This means that the food will stay fresh and maintain the same taste and texture for longer. Vacuum sealing can also stop the growth of microorganisms in some foods, like red meat, and can prevent freezer burn, which can spoil food and ruin its texture and flavor.

A vacuum sealer is ideal for personal and commercial use, and can also help you stock up for camping trips, road trips, emergency supplies, bulk buy shopping trips, and more. You can use it to seal anything in a bag, including meats, cheeses, dried foods, fruit, coffee, chips, and other items for the fridge, freezer, and pantry. You can even use it to protect valuable electronics, jewelry, and documents in the event of a flood or water damage. Some reviewers also find it useful for protecting their valuable items on kayaking trips.

Top 5 Vacuum Sealers

Weston Products Vacuum Sealer

The Weston Products Vacuum Sealer is unique because it will allow you to marinate and preserve your fresh foods with one high quality unit. This commercial quality vacuum sealer has a simple one-touch operation and easy-to-use control panel, so you can master it in no time. It features 23' HG vacuum strength, a 210-watt motor, and is ETL certified, so it is ideal for both home and professional use. It has a responsive pulse mode and bright blue indicator lights. There is also a manual seal mode, so you can control the vacuum pressure for certain jobs. The vacuum pump has a fan-cooled motor so you won’t need to worry about it overheating. It has a sleek black design, brushed stainless steel lid, and an angled vacuum chamber to prevent liquids from entering.

Cook’s Illustrated found that this sealer will work with a variety of affordable bags, canisters, and rolls. Weston makes some of the best vacuum sealers on the market. This one is constructed of high quality parts and should perform reliably for years. It is Cook’s Illustrated’s top pick and recommended by America’s Test Kitchen. It also has outstanding online reviews and customers have found that this sealer can keep food fresh for more than three months.

Currently $184.49 on Amazon

Seal-a-Meal Vacuum Sealer

The affordable Seal-a-Meal Vacuum Sealer offers a compact design that won’t take up much space on your counter. It is very easy to use; you simply place the bag into the sealer, press and hold the handle down until the green, hands-free indicator light turns on, and then allow the sealer to do the rest. Once the cycle is complete, the motor and the sealing indicator light will turn off. It comes with a dishwasher-safe removable drip tray and features smooth, easy clean surfaces for quick cleanup. It can keep frozen food ice-free for more than three months. However, because it does not have a manual pulse mode, it can crush crunchy items like chips. It fits quart and gallon heat-seal bags and rolls, and comes with four quart-sized bags to get you started.

It is recommended by Cook’s Illustrated and is the most affordable option on our list. It is also backed by outstanding online reviews, including nearly 700 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $37.45 on Amazon

FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing System With Starter Kit

The FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing System has two preset sealing modes, and you can set it for the type of food you’re sealing. It offers moist/dry food settings and an accessory port and hose to seal canisters. It is small, quiet, lightweight, and can keep food fresh for more than three months. The CrushFree instant seal will help protect delicate foods from being crushed during the sealing process. It is easy to use. You simply feed the bag into the sealer, lower the handle, and allow the automated system to take care of itself. It has dishwasher-safe removable parts and a removable drip tray for easy cleaning. It can be stored vertically to save space. It has a convenient roll holder and built-in bag cutter, so you can create your own custom size bags and save even more money.

This starter kit comes with everything you need, including a vacuum sealer roll, five vacuum sealer bags, and an accessory hose. It is recommended by Cook’s Illustrated, and Consumer Search selected it as the best cheap external vacuum sealer. It is also backed by a one-year warranty and outstanding online reviews, including nearly 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $119.89 on Amazon

Waring Pro Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System

There’s no easier way to seal your bags than with the Waring Pro Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System. This countertop, hand-held sealing system is easier to use than the other options on our list. It is also small enough to fit in a kitchen drawer, so it won’t take up any space on your counter. The heavy-duty, pistol-style vacuum sealer is very portable, so you can use it anywhere in your home or commercial kitchen. The built-in battery offers quiet, reliable performance for about 30 sealings between recharges. Reviewers found that food still looks good even after three months.

It comes with two dozen BPA-free, dishwasher-safe reusable valve bags in quart and gallon sizes. The bags are thicker and more reliable than other bags on the market. The bags can also be placed directly into the microwave or boiling water, for easier meal preparation. This means you can prepare custom veggie steamers right in the bags. To use it properly, you need to close the bag with the heavy-duty zipper and then remove the air from the small valve in the corner of the bag. This vacuum sealer is recommended by Cook’s Illustrated, and Consumer Search selected it as the best handheld vacuum sealer. It is built to last and has a limited five-year warranty.

Currently $67.91 on Amazon

FoodSaver 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System

The FoodSaver 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealing System with Bonus Built-in Retractable Handheld Sealer is unique because it offers both standard heat-seal and handheld vacuuming capabilities in one compact unit. The heat-seal sensor automatically grabs, vacuums, and seals the bag. It can also marinate food in minutes with a convenient marinate mode. The built-in retractable handheld sealer can seal zipper bags, canister, and containers to save you even more money. The sleek design features indicator lights and high quality materials. There is also a roll storage compartment with a built-in slicer that will custom cut bags to size, allowing you to store even large pans of food. It includes a pullout drawer and removable, dishwasher-safe drip tray for easier cleanup. This starter kit has everything you need, including a vacuum sealer roll and 10 bags in quart and gallon size.

This is a higher end vacuum sealer that would work just as well in a home or commercial kitchen. It is recommended by Cook’s Illustrated and has outstanding online reviews.

Currently $199.99 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best vacuum sealers. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

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This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Humidifiers

Andrea Cannon — Fri, 04 Mar 2016 10:00:05 +0000

A humidifier can help with sinus pain, respiratory problems, asthma, allergies, nose irritation, and even the common cough and flu. It can also help improve your breathing and your sleep quality. If your skin, face, or lips are dry, a humidifier can add moisture and humidity to the room, so you won’t have to deal with cold weather symptoms any longer. It can even help promote plant health, reduce static electricity, and protect wood furniture, which is subject to shrinking, cracking, and warping from moisture loss.

If you are experiencing dry indoor air, then a humidifier can replenish the moisture. Maintaining the right humidity level can make the body and room feel warmer, which means you can cut your heating costs in the winter.

What Is a Humidifier?

A humidifier is a small device that can add moisture and humidity to a single room or the entire building. Humidifiers are available in cool mist, warm mist, and ultrasonic varieties to best suit your personal preferences. Allergy Buyers Club recommends a cool mist humidifier to combat allergies and a warm mist humidifier to combat asthma or respiratory infections. It is important to keep your humidifier clean and dry when not in use to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Top 5 Humidifiers

Honeywell Germ-Free Cool Mist Humidifier

The Honeywell Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier, HCM-350, is unique because it features UV technology that kills up to 99% of bacteria, mold, fungus, and viruses found in the water. This means it will only produce clean and germ-free mist. The energy efficient, evaporative tabletop humidifier produces cool mist and can humidify up to 500 square feet of space. The self-regulating evaporative system will naturally adjust the output to the right amount of moisture. The durable tank has a handle for easy carrying, sits flat in the sink for easy filling, and has dishwasher-safe parts and a wide tank opening for easy cleaning. It is easy to use, is virtually leak-proof, and offers excellent output. It has a 1.5-gallon tank capacity and can offer reliable operation for up to 24 hours per filling. It is up to 25% quieter than other evaporative humidifiers. It is easy to clean and leaves no white dust residue. It is available in both black and white and is backed by a three-year limited warranty.

This humidifier was selected by Consumer Search as the best cool mist humidifier, is a Consumer Reports’ recommendation, is recommended by iallergy, is the top recommendation by TheSweetHome.com, and came out on top for multiple independent review sites. It is also backed by outstanding online reviews, including nearly 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. Honeywell is one of the most respected and highly rated brands of humidifiers available, so if this unit isn’t right for you, there is likely another Honeywell that will fit your needs.

Currently $51.07 on Amazon

Crane Adorable Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier

The Crane Adorable Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier offers a cute, compact, owl design, perfect for a nursery or kids’ room. While it is equipped with a small one-gallon tank, it offers good moisture output of 2.1-gallons per day. The energy efficient model is easy to use, whisper quiet, and can humidify up to 250 square feet of space. The manual control knob will allow you to adjust the mist output intensity. Once the tank is low on water, the humidifier will automatically shut off. The ultrasonic cool mist operation does not require a filter and can offer reliable operation for up to 24 hours. The removable water tank is easy to clean. It features a one-year warranty and is built to last.

This is Consumer Reports’ top humidifier pick for small rooms, Consumer Search selected it as the best humidifier for a child’s room, and Health Magazine selected it as the best option for dry skin and stuffy sinuses. If owls aren’t your thing, there are 10 different Crane Humidifiers designed to look like all different types of animals, such as a frog, dragon, monkey, and elephant. You might also consider something like the bestselling Crane Drop Shape Cool Mist Humidifier because Crane offers some of the best humidifiers on the market.

Currently $30.00 on Amazon

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier With Auto Shut-Off

The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier With Auto Shut-Off is unique because it can moisturize the air while making the room feel warmer during the winter. It has two vapor settings, an automatic safety shutoff, and a soft glowing nightlight. It produces up to 95% bacteria-free visible moisture and can humidify up to 400 square feet of space. It offers two settings for ideal comfort and an auto shut-off feature. The one-gallon tank offers up to 12 hours of quiet, reliable operation. It is easy to use, easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts, and does not require a filter. It also has a three-year limited warranty.

The humidifier can be used with water or with Vicks Vaposteam or Kaz Inhalant for added relief. Consumer Reports’ selected this as one of the best humidifiers for medium-sized rooms and Consumer Search selected it as the best warm mist humidifier. It is also recommended by iallergy and backed by outstanding online reviews, including 1,100 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $26.86 on Amazon

Ultrasonic Dual-Mist Warm/Cool Humidifier

The SPT Ultrasonic Dual-Mist Warm/Cool Humidifier with Ion Exchange Filter is unique because it produces either cool or warm mist. With variable humidity levels, it can produce plenty of fine mist to fit your needs. The ION exchange filter treats water to remove calcium and magnesium from hard water, which will prolong the useful life of the humidifier and prevent white dust particles from depositing into the air. The energy efficient model offers whisper quiet, reliable performance.

The tabletop humidifier can humidify up to 500 square feet of space and offers a daily output of 2.31 gallons and a maximum of 12 hours usage. The large tank has a carrying handle for easy use and filling. Once the tank is empty, the unit will automatically shut off. It has a sleek, compact design with easy-to-use controls and impressive features, like overheat protection and a rotating nozzle to direct mist in two directions simultaneously. It is easy to use, refill, and clean with an included cleaning brush.

This is Consumer Reports’ top humidifier pick for large rooms, Consumer Search’s pick for the best ultrasonic humidifier, the Editors' Choice selection at BabyGearLab.com, and the top rated ultrasonic humidifier at TheSweetHome.com. It is also backed by a one-year limited warranty.

Currently $65.17 on Amazon

Air-O-Swiss Travel Ultrasonic Humidifier

Air-O-Swiss humidifiers can be very expensive, but are worth the cost. Fortunately, they now offer an affordable travel ultrasonic humidifier, so you can try the humidifiers everyone is talking about without going broke. If you suffer from dry air symptoms after traveling, then the Air-O-Swiss Travel Ultrasonic Humidifier can provide the relief you need. It is whisper quiet and couldn’t be easier to use; all you do is attach your own standard water bottle, plug the unit in, and enjoy the clean moisture.

The lightweight, compact device makes it easy to carry anywhere, like in your travel bag or purse. This will allow you to use it anywhere you like, including on your desk, in a hotel, or in a small dorm room. It uses efficient ultrasonic technology and high-frequency vibrations to produce a micro-fine cool mist. It has a 1.2-gallon output and can be used for 24 hours. There is a mist output control so you can control the humidification. It is easy to clean and features an auto shut-off feature when the tank is empty. It includes accessories like a travel bag, power adapter, and exchangeable power plug.

Entrepreneur Magazine found that a travel humidifier can provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms caused by dry air and can create a soothing environment, no matter where you are. This humidifier came out on top for several independent review sites and is also backed by outstanding online reviews, including more than 500 five-star reviews on Amazon. It is also recommended by Amazon Baby for your new nursery and by the Allergy Buyers Club for people suffering from allergies. Air-O-Swiss is one of the most respected and highly rated brands of humidifiers available, so if this unit isn’t right for you, there is likely another Air-O-Swiss that will fit your needs. If you need something more permanent or for a large room, consider the renowned Air-O-Swiss Ultrasonic Humidifier - Warm and Cool Mist.

Currently $49.99 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best humidifiers. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Andrea Cannon of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

12 Green Living Habits That'll Save You Every Month

Mikey Rox — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 10:30:32 +0000

Another Earth Day is just around the corner. Let's get a head start on saving the planet with these eco-friendly lifestyle tips that'll also save you moolah every month. (See also: 11 Ways the Government Pays You to Live Green)

1. Take Advantage of Natural Light

I try to keep the lights off in the house as much as possible, even when I go to the bathroom late at night (I use my phone as a flashlight instead) to reduce my overall energy costs. As an alternative to the artificial lights in my house, I take advantage of natural light from the windows during the day (open your doors and blinds) and sometimes candles or other secondary light sources (like my devices) when the sun goes down.

2. Plug Drafts to Reduce Heating Costs

If there are drafts coming in from holes and crevices around your house, the climate-controlled air for which you pay is escaping. Resolve this costly problem by plugging drafts yourself (if you're able to identify the draft location and capable of doing the work) or hiring someone to help you out. Many times, however, the solution to the problem is as simple as putting a towel or blanket in front of doors and wrapping windows and A/C units for the winter.

3. Adjust the Settings on Your Appliances

Your appliances could be working overtime unnecessarily. Check the settings on your fridge, freezer, stove, microwave, and more to determine if they're turned up too high. If they can get the job done properly on lower settings, turn them down.

4. Install a "Greywater" System

Greywater — essentially any household wastewater with the exception of the toilet — can be repurposed in other areas around the home to help you cut back on water usage across the board.

"A... laundry-to-landscape greywater system can reduce water costs by reusing water used on clothes washing or sink/shower water to irrigate the garden," says Morgan Vondrak, a certified sustainable landscape designer at Argia Designs in San Francisco. "This is a great way to grow fruit trees and water intensive edible shrubs."

Conservation and green design expert Pablo Solomon suggests a couple more uses for greywater. "Put a dishwashing pan in your sinks and showers to catch water. Also dip out and save your bath water. This greywater is great to flush toilets and to water plants," he says.

5. Use Cold Water to Wash Clothes, and Clean the Dryer Lint Trap

Using cold water versus hot water when washing clothes won't save you a ton, but if you're looking to shave a few bucks of your bill every month (and you're okay laundering with cold water), it's a decent solution.

"When doing laundry, use cold water instead of hot in your washing machine, which can save you over $3 per month," Solomon advises. "The dryer typically accounts for 5% of your monthly electric bill, but keeping the lint trap clean on a regular basis will dry clothes faster and lower energy expenditures."

6. Use Sunlight to Help Control Temperature

Drafts can affect the temperature of your home, especially when the heat is pumping during the winter months. But the amount of sunlight in your home can also dramatically raise or lower the inside temperature, which is important to remember during both the hot and cold seasons.

"Use window coverings to keep sunlight from heating your rooms too much in summer and to let in warming rays in the winter," Solomon recommends. "Window coverings can be expensive, but you can also improvise. You can use blankets, and you can also make your own curtains or buy them at resale shops. I have a friend who sewed bubble wrap between layers of cloth to make really attractive and amazingly efficient drapes."

7. Lower the Temperature of Your Hot Water Heater

I recommended using cold water instead of hot to wash clothes to save a few bucks a month, but you also should inspect your hot water heater to see if perhaps it's running too hot in general.

"If you have to turn on the cold water along with the hot so your shower isn't scalding, you are paying too much to heat your water," says Eileen Flanagan, author of Renewable: One Woman's Search for Simplicity, Faithfulness, and Hope. "Most experts recommend 120 Fahrenheit. Once you find a temperature that is comfortable when you turn on just the hot tap, you can leave it set there and forget about it — except for vacations when you can turn it down further."

8. Power Your Devices From a Strip — And Remember to Turn It Off

Rather than plugging devices in single outlets spread all over the house, try to consolidate your energy and charging efforts onto one charging strip so you can control the power usage with one switch.

"Smart power plugs can detect how much electricity your 'energy vampires' — like TVs, game consoles, and mobile phones — are consuming and can be set to automatically turn off every night and then turn back on every morning," says Gene Wang, CEO and co-founder of People Power, a tech company in California.

As a habit, only plug in other devices and appliances — like printers, toasters, and coffeemakers — when you need to use them.

9. Nip Drips in the Bud ASAP

Hopefully we're all shutting off the sink while we're brushing our teeth and taking quick showers to conserve water, but it's all for naught if you have a leak in your pipes or a drippy faucet. If either of these situations are flushing your money down the drain, put a stop to it.

10. Think of Carpet and Rugs as Extra Insulation

Rugs and carpeting can provide extra insulation in your home, which is helpful during the winter months. It's often cheaper to install — especially area rugs — than re-insulating your home or turning the heat up. Plus, your little tootsies will thank you for not having to touch a cold floor in the morning.

11. Travel by Foot, Bike, or Public Transportation More Often

You can save a serious amount of money on gas and car maintenance by changing the way you travel, especially locally. Walk, bike, or take public transportation to the places you need to go more often when the weather is nice. Carpooling is a great option, too. I used to carpool with a buddy of mine to work — we would each have one week on and one week off, which resulted in significant fuel savings (more than $1,000) that I was able to put toward other expenses.

12. Consider Scheduling an Energy Audit

If you're serious about going green, but don't really know where to start, consider scheduling an energy audit to determine what can and needs to be done to reduce your carbon footprint and monthly energy spend.

"Most utility companies offer them free or close to free," says Shel Horowitz, author and green business profitability expert. "Last time we did one, they gave us hundreds of dollars worth of LED light bulbs and picked up two-thirds of the cost of re-insulating."

What are some of your green living habits that save you money every month? Let me know in the comments below.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: