1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances

Preserve That Goodness

Freezer jam is so packed with flavor and natural color and the best part - it's so easy to make. If you don't have a recipe, it's super quick with a mix. Find some berries and delight your taste buds.

More About Preserving

Housewares / Appliances Spotlight10

Vacuum vs Carpet Cleaner

Monday May 9, 2011

Although some retailers tend to lump both of these floor care appliances under vacuums, there are significant differences in design and function between the two.  If you're tempted to cut corners and use a carpet cleaner merely to vacuum, you could easily wear this cleaning tool out quickly - it's not designed for this task.  Learn more about vacuums and steam carpet cleaners, so you can properly care for your floor coverings.

Steam Carpet Cleaner Buying Tips | Spot Carpet Cleaner Buying Tips | Bags vs Bagless Vacuums

Install a Freezer for Convenience & Efficiency

Saturday May 7, 2011

Where you'll put the new freezer is something you should consider before you even start shopping for one.  That's because it could affect the type of freezer you choose as well as capacity. And the most likely spot may not be the best place when it comes to convenience.  A less-than-ideal area temperature can cause a freezer to work harder than it should and that can cost you more in energy.  Learn what makes an ideal place to install a freezer for convenience as well as efficient operation and install your freezer in the best place, the first time.

How to Buy a Freezer and Care for it

Why Foods Tend to Suffer Freezer Burn

A Freezer Light is Optional (Really!)


6 Things You Must Do if You Have a Smart Meter

Thursday May 5, 2011

If you want to save money that is.  There are many more ways you can save energy and money, but in 6 Things You Must Do if You Have a Smart Meter, I've targeted the heavy electricity use appliances and how you can help to mitigate time of use (TOU) rates, when you have a smart meter and are charged based on different rate (on peak, mid peak, off peak) periods.

Learn more about Time of Use Electricity (TOU) Rates

Learn what a smart meter is

What phantom power is and how you can stop the wasteful flow of energy

More tips on energy conservation



Tip of the Week: Improve the View Around the Window AC

Wednesday May 4, 2011

Window air conditioners are a must for some homes but they can be unsightly on their own, without adding a plywood board to cover the remaining open space above or beside the unit.  Improve the light and view (and look) by using a plastic or polycarbonate panel instead of wood to close in that area.   This is a 'clearer' alternative, as long as the security risk of unwanted entry isn't increased.  Learn more about buying an air conditioner. Not sure how to install a window air conditioner?  Learn how from this video.

Read More About Cooling Your Home

Discuss in the forum

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Housewares / Appliances

©2011 About.com. All rights reserved. 

A part of The New York Times Company.