Households rely on running water to carry out all kinds of tasks, from drinking and bathing to watering plants. This supply can stay uninterrupted as long as the water is safely contained in pipes. The problem arises when water finds gaps and leaks, potentially damaging the home’s structure. One way to prevent such damage is to check for leaks around the home. So, here are a few ways to find hidden water leaks: 1. Monitoring the water bill Over time, one tends to have a clear idea about the average water bill they can expect each month. Sometimes, one may use excess water, which could drive up water usage. However, sometimes, one can get a high water bill even without excessive usage. Such unexpected charges should be monitored as they could be signs of leakage in the house. Even tiny leaks, such as a faucet with a steady drip, may waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water per year. So, tracking the bill each month is the best way to identify and fix a water leakage at the earliest to prevent spikes in bills. 2. Checking meter readings Monitoring the water meter is another method of tracking a leak before it worsens. The meter runs up based on the usage, and if there is a tap running, one could expect the numbers to change accordingly. The meter is usually located beneath a manhole-type cover near the street or on the side or back of the house, close the where the water supply line enters the home. Here is how to check for a leak: – First, one must turn off all water faucets in the home and ensure appliances like the washing machine and dishwasher are not running. Then, they must check the water meter and make a note of the numbers on it.

Long-term exposure to daily-use cleaners, dishwashing soaps, air fresheners, and other aerosol products harms lung health, mainly because these products contain irritants and volatile organic compounds that cause allergies in the lungs. There is a potential risk of lung disease, asthma, MAC disease, and common chronic obstructive pulmonary disease developing due to long-term exposure. So, it’s crucial to check the label of the following household items before buying them and practice caution while using them. Air fresheners Room and air fresheners are not just used in homes but also in offices, malls, and many other public places, which means one can be continually exposed to the product in and outside their living space. While the purpose of air fresheners is to keep odor at bay, several ingredients in the air freshener can cause harm to health. Fresheners are known to have volatile organic compounds and release harmful gasses in the air that are eventually inhaled by people in the room, increasing their risk of developing respiratory issues. Some of the known chemicals in such products include formaldehyde, benzene, and phthalates which can cause issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing when inhaled. Here is a list of ingredients that one will usually find in air fresheners and a look at how they can potentially harm the lungs: Solvents: They contain chemicals like glycol and ethanol used for diluting the other ingredients in the air freshener can. When these chemicals are inhaled, they cause irritation in the lungs. Aldehydes: This is a compound that develops with the natural chemical process taking place inside the bottle as the ingredients keep mixing together over time. This compound, when inhaled, can also be responsible for causing not just irritation but also cancer. Propellants: The ingredient is responsible for creating the mist when an air freshener is sprayed.

As the Black Friday sales approaches, consumer electronics and appliances are in demand. The shopping season is the best time to save big on branded products from these categories. Vacuum cleaners are among the top-selling products, fetching massive discounts during the sale as they make cleaning tasks less laborious. From handheld products to stick and even canister vacuum cleaners, here are a few top products to check out this year. Upright vacuums Upright vacuums are designed to work efficiently on most floor surfaces, especially for suctioning dirt and debris off rugs and carpets. In terms of maneuverability and ease of use, this vacuum also checks across the board with a swivel head attachment. Plus, the high-performance suction motor, multiple vacuum heads, and lightweight design make it a popular-selling vacuum during the shopping season. Prices are expected to start at just $189 for Dyson’s exclusive category of upright vacuums. Stick vacuums Stick vacuums come with a long handle and a small vacuum component attached to the end of this handle. It makes the cleaner lightweight and very easy to use. Secondly, its versatile design allows for easy dismantling and storage. Stick vacuums are also silent operators with as little as 86 decibels of noise generated, so it’s convenient to use for long hours. Prices for branded stick vacuums are expected to be around just $98 for the base models that are expected to go on sale this year’s Black Friday. Handheld vacuums They are the most compact design, complete with a small but powerful motor that is capable of suctioning dirt and debris off hard-to-reach places around the house. It’s ideal for wood floors and tight spaces, suitable for easy maneuvering, effective in collecting pet fur and dander, and even suitable for cleaning vehicles. These vacuums are also quite affordable, with prices for the base variants across popular brands starting at just under $19.99 ahead of this year’s shopping season.

One can almost hear the jingling Christmas bells and see the twinkling fairy lights with Christmas not that far away. With it comes the exchange of gifts—an indispensable part of Christmas celebrations. Choosing a gift is about understanding what the receiver wants and likes and combining visual appeal with utility. To help one narrow down the best options, here are a few gifts that are often returned and, thus, should be avoided: 1. Video games Although buying a video game is a good idea for gamers, if one does not have access to the receiver’s game collection, they may end up gifting a game that the receiver already has. Moreover, if one does not have a fair idea about video games, they may end up buying the wrong game, which may not be useful for the recipient. So, it is a good idea to avoid buying a video game if one is unsure of the exact game the recipient wants. 2. Shoes Few things are more pleasant for fashionable individuals than being gifted a pair of elegant shoes. However, buying the right pair of shoes involves many considerations. First, one would have to ensure that the type and design of shoes are in accordance with the recipient’s preferences. Further, one shoe size definitely does not fit all, so shoes of the wrong size would be returned as a Christmas present. 3. Scented candles Scented candles are perhaps among the most popular Christmas gifts. But candles with an overwhelmingly strong fragrance or those with a scent the recipient does not like can make the gift stay unused. Alternatively, one can consider gifting a loved one a scent diffuser for Christmas, as they can add the fragrance of their choice to it. 4. Clothes Gifting clothes is usually risky, as one would have to consider factors like the size of the receiver, the type of clothing they like, and whether they already have similar options.

The refrigerator plays an integral part in the smooth functioning of the modern kitchen. It is not just a storage vessel. The refrigerator contributes to storing food, cooked and uncooked. It negates the need to produce shopping every other day. It plays a considerable part in meal planning and prepping for the upcoming week, making things easier for busy individuals. However, certain mistakes can contribute to the compromised functioning of the appliance and must be avoided. Overstuffing When one stuffs their refrigerator excessively, it can lead to spoiled food. The air circulation in the fridge is restricted when every inch of space is filled with groceries. This can cause uneven cooling and spoilage of food. To avoid this, adopting a “less is more” approach is important, allowing cool air to circulate freely and keeping all the items fresh. Disorganized interiors An untidy refrigerator can be compared to a disorganized wardrobe. Finding what one may need can be difficult, leading to items being overlooked and spoiling. To improve efficiency and make every ingredient easily accessible, it is important to introduce a system of organization. This can be achieved by grouping and labeling similar items, transforming the fridge into an orderly and convenient space. Temperature negligence The fridge’s thermostat is an essential component that affects the food’s freshness. If one ignores its setting, it can cause temperature imbalances affecting the lifespan of perishable food items. Therefore, it is important to take a moment to adjust the temperature settings and align them with recommended guidelines for optimal food preservation. Neglected cleaning routine Neglecting regular cleaning leads to unpleasant odors and provides a breeding ground for bacteria. Adopting a simple routine of clearing out expired items, wiping down surfaces, and addressing spills ensures a clean and hygienic fridge environment. Overlooking the freezer’s maintenance The freezer, often overlooked compared to the main fridge, has unique challenges.

If you want to upgrade your vacuum cleaner and achieve a spick and span space on a budget, then doing so on Cyber Monday could be wise. The sale period is expected to bring various vacuum brands at discounted prices. With the robotic vacuums and the latest range of products that will be available, you can take your cleaning to the next level. Here are some of the anticipated deals based on last year’s trends. Dyson Ball Multi-floor vacuum These vacuum cleaners designed with the Dyson Ball can work on any floor. This appliance comes with radial root cyclone technology, capturing microscopic dust and dirt. It also has a HEPA washable filter that ensures bacteria and allergens remain inside the machine. It is expected to be available at a discount of around 30% during the Cyber Monday sale. iRobot Roomba This robotic vacuum comes with self-emptying features, where the vacuum has a docking station that automatically disposes of all kinds of dust and dirt after every cleaning. The smart mapping feature sets the area cleaned regularly, saving you time. The product is also expected to be available at a discount of more than 15% during the holiday sale. Samsung Jet 90 complete cordless stick vacuum This battery-powered device from Samsung is lightweight and has a 180-degree swivel head and a high-capacity dust collector, so you don’t have to empty it frequently. The vacuum also has a five-layer filtration and is expected to be available at a discount of $250 during the Cyber Monday sale. Roborock S7 robot vacuum The robotic vacuums category also includes this product with sonic mopping technology. With it, the device can mop the floor with sound power. It provides 600g mop pressure and 2500PA of HyperForce suction to provide deep cleaning. It is also expected to be available at a discount of more than $150 during the sale period.

Managing laundry is a tedious task and mandates upgrading the cleaning area with the latest equipment. It involves introspection in terms of price. Cyber Monday, slated to happen on November 28, is the perfect time to purchase washers and dryers as retailers offer outstanding deals and discounts on branded and unbranded products. Here is a list of the top 10 expected holiday season deals on laundry equipment based on last year’s offers. LG compact front load washer This washer has smart features such as app connectivity, built-in fabric sensors, anti-vibration, and more. It also has a steam cleaning facility to keep allergens at bay. This product is expected to be available at a discount of $300 this Cyber Monday sale. Maytag smart top load washing machine This washer can be the perfect machine for daily laundry needs as it has 11 wash options, including a power wash and a deep-water wash cycle. The in-built sensors adjust the water level according to the load size, thus preserving water. The product is expected to be available at a discount of more than $350 during the holiday season sale. LG ThinQ electric dryer This one could be great if you are looking for a large dryer that can easily cater to your weekly loads. The machine has an ultra-large capacity so that you can complete all your washing in fewer loads. The built-in intelligence automatically selects settings to achieve optimum results. This machine has a compact and sleek design, making it easy to fit in most spaces. Furthermore, the product is expected to be available at a discount of more than $300 during the Cyber Monday sale. Maytag electric vented dryer This dryer stands out from the others because of the heavy-duty motor that helps it to spin effortlessly to dry even huge loads.

Treating several respiratory illnesses such as asthma, the common cold, and those due to allergy reactions involve preventing triggers of the symptoms. Most people assume they must take precautions only when they head outside. Although it is essential to mask up and avoid pollutants, smoke, and particulate matter outdoors, it is equally crucial to be wary of potential symptom triggers indoors as well. Here we’ve discussed some hotspots for respiratory problems and how to tackle them. Doorknobs and drawer and appliance handles The handles of drawers, appliances, and doorknobs in any home or office are some of the most touched surfaces, as everyone comes in contact with these. As a result, they are one of the biggest hotspots for respiratory illnesses. They can quickly spread contagious germs such as viruses, bacteria, etc. What you can do Although it is impossible to completely cut off contact with these surfaces, cleaning them with disinfectants is recommended. Electronic keypads and keyboards Electronic keypads and keyboards can have 400 times more germs than an average toilet seat. This is because these are in constant contact with our hands, which are the biggest carriers of germs unless we sanitize them regularly. Moreover, many people drink and eat at their desks as they work. The debris and residue on the keyboards encourage fungi, viruses, and bacteria. What you can do Wiping the keyboards and keypads with disinfectant daily will help prevent them from becoming hotspots for respiratory illnesses. Also, you can use a keyboard cleaner to eliminate any debris that might be stuck between the keys. Shared glassware, dishes, and utensils It is common practice for many people to share glassware, dishes, or even spoons at home or in the office. If you want to avoid a nasty respiratory illness, it is best to avoid this practice altogether, as it is the easiest way for germs to spread and make you sick.

A refrigerator is an essential appliance, especially for big families with many members. However, they can be expensive, so one must tread carefully. When buying a fridge, it’s essential to consider the features, compare prices, and know which model best suits the house. Luckily, with Black Friday approaching, one may find a good product for a reasonable price. A look at last year’s Black Friday refrigerator deals can tell customers what to expect in 2023. GE GE is a popular brand for kitchen appliances like refrigerators. Last Black Friday, shoppers were spoilt for choice with so many high-end products on sale. Here are two deals that were trending: 1. The GE Profile 27.9 Cu. Ft. Smart 4-Door French-Door Refrigerator was on sale at The Home Depot for $3,918. Customers saved $1,001 on this model. By paying a little more, one could get a larger size. This fridge has an in-the-door ice maker, hands-free autofill capability, and other handy features. 2. Another popular GE product, the 25.3 Cu. Ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator in Stainless Steel, sold at The Home Depot for $1,198. Shoppers saved $601 on this purchase. The model has edge-to-edge shelves, external dispensers, a bonus freezer shelf, and an easy-access icemaker. LG This is another famous brand that was popular among shoppers last Black Friday. Here are two expensive LG products that had a discount: 3. The LG 30 Cu. Ft. French-Door Smart Refrigerator in Stainless Steel was on sale for $3,498, helping shoppers save $601. It comes with a unique InstaView design, which allows users to simply knock on the door twice to see what’s inside the fridge through the glass panel. The door-in-door feature is great for dividing the drinks section from the food section. It also keeps the inner compartment cool, even after opening the glass door.

Home security systems have seen significant price drops every Black Friday. Year after year, homeowners have benefited from discounts and promotions on various security products. Whether buyers are looking for surveillance cameras, smart locks, or alarm systems, investing in advanced protection systems is an excellent opportunity. Here’s a list of some home security gear that did well last year and is expected to have deals during Black Friday 2023. 1. Security cameras and surveillance There is a difference between security cameras and surveillance cameras. Security cameras are meant to be a deterrent to prevent break-ins, robberies, and other potential criminal activities. Meanwhile, the purpose of surveillance cameras is to monitor spaces within and outside. These cameras are usually hidden, while security cameras can be easily seen. Therefore, one must know what kind of protection they need for their homes. Both surveillance and security cameras have their prices slashed during the sale period. Knowing the type of cameras needed helps find deals quickly before they go out of stock. 2. Smart doorbells A smart doorbell camera lets a homeowner see and hear who is on the other side of the door, even when the homeowner is not home. These smart devices are usually Internet-enabled and connected to a smartphone app. A single device includes a camera, doorbell, microphone, and doorbell function. Most doorbells cost $150 or less, but high-end models with advanced motion sensing and facial recognition have price tags above $200 .  Last year, shoppers bought smart doorbell cameras at significant price cuts of almost $100 from big retailers like Amazon. 3. Smart door locks With a smart lock, one can ditch their keys to conveniently and safely manage the locking system of their home, even when they are away. These locks are remotely controlled through iOS and Android apps installed on mobile devices.

Cruising the high seas is a sought-after attraction for many travelers, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. While cruise ships are known for their luxurious amenities and all-inclusive packages, passengers must abide by certain rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. These restrictions extend to carrying certain items on the ship. While some might seem obvious, there are several items that one may not know are forbidden on ships. 1. Irons and steamers Wrinkled clothes might be a pet peeve for many, but cruise ships don’t allow irons or steamers in cabins. This is mainly to avoid any items that can lead to fire hazards. One can instead carry wrinkle-release products for a quick fix. Many ships also offer laundry services to keep one’s attire wrinkle-free, but it’s best to check beforehand with the cruise ship about this particular service. 2. Household appliances Like clothing irons and steamers, coffee makers, kettles, toasters, hot plates, and other household appliances that generate heat are considered to pose a fire risk and are not allowed aboard. That said, a hair dryer, curling iron, straightener, or portable electric fan are some things that are allowed. 3. Electric blankets Electric blankets may be confiscated during embarkation since they could compromise safety protocols, and cruise lines maintain strict fire prevention measures to protect passengers and crew. 4. Power strips or surge-protected power bars Surge-protected power bars are electric devices that safeguard one’s electronics from voltage spikes and surges. These power bars feature built-in surge protection technology that controls potential electrical damage. However, these devices are not allowed on cruise ships because they may overload the ship’s electrical circuits or interfere with power distribution, posing a fire risk. The ones carried to the ship are usually either approved by the authorities or are non-surge-protected power bars.

As the shopping season approaches, it is time for shoppers around the country to get ready with their lists and strategies to snag the best Black Friday deals and avoid missing out. For coffee enthusiasts, this is the perfect opportunity to get a top-notch coffee maker at a fraction of its regular price. The following brands and retailers have previously offered unbeatable deals on coffee makers, so they are worth considering on Black Friday 2023. Coffee maker brands 1. Breville has long been known for its commitment to innovation and precision. With a wide range of coffee makers, including drip machines, espresso makers, and grinder-brewer combos, Breville’s appliances cater to both novice brewers and seasoned coffee connoisseurs. The brand’s dedication to ensuring intuitive controls and high-quality materials in their machines ensures a consistently exceptional cup of coffee. Last year, Breville helped shoppers save as much as $100 on their purchases of coffee makers and the necessary accessories. 2. Nespresso revolutionized coffee making with its pioneering single-serve espresso machines. Known for offering sleek design and convenience in its machines, Nespresso also sells a wide variety of coffee blends and flavors. Further, the brand’s commitment to sustainability sets it apart in the realm of single-serve brewing. Nespresso offered its Vertuo and Select machines during the previous sale season at a 25% discount, making them worth considering this shopping season as well. 3. Keurig is synonymous with versatility and convenience. Its single-serve machines, compatible with a vast array of K-Cup pods, help one experiment with a range of flavors and coffee recipes. Keurig’s dedication to customization and user-friendly interfaces make it a beloved choice for households with diverse coffee tastes. Some of its top-rated single-serve models carried discounts across e-commerce platforms, helping shoppers save as much as $70. Further, the company website previously offered up to 50% off on a select range of coffee makers, making it worth checking out on Black Friday this year.