8 ways to find water leaks at home

8 ways to find water leaks at home

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.
8 foods to help improve fertility in men and women

8 foods to help improve fertility in men and women

Often, people incorrectly believe that low fertility is incurable. Fortunately, years of extensive scientific research have found that the foods one eats, or lifestyle habits can either enhance or debilitate fertility. Maintaining a good food regime can, over time, restore fertility levels in people. This is because of the nutritional value of specific foods that directly bring about positive changes in a person’s reproductive health. Thus, here are some foods that improve fertility: Oatmeal Everyone’s favorite breakfast, a warm bowl of oatmeal, is also a wonderful fertility enhancer. Studies have found that high-fiber carbs that have a low glycemic index are positive for fertility growth. Oatmeal is loaded with these kinds of high-performance carbohydrates. At the same time, one also needs to be careful. The glycemic index of carbohydrates is linked with a given food’s ability to raise or lower one’s blood sugar levels. So, while low glycemic index-based foods lower a person’s blood sugar levels, high glycemic index-based foods make that level rise. Sugar is associated with fertility issues. Thus, foods like oatmeal should be consumed in moderation or you should have sugar-free oatmeal, if possible, to attain all of their benefits while sidestepping their problematic aspects. Spinach Leafy green vegetables have countless health benefits, which is why they regularly feature on nearly all “best foods” lists, and that trend continues for this list as well. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, and Swiss chard contain large amounts of essential prenatal nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and folate. While iron is vital for preventing menstrual problems in women, folate protects them against birth defects in the brain and spine that usually develop in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Healthcare experts actively advise people suffering from infertility to eat plenty of folate-rich foods, such as spinach, to improve their chances of conception.
10 superfoods that can help manage colon cancer

10 superfoods that can help manage colon cancer

Colon cancer refers to cancerous polyps developing in the rectum or colon in the lower part of the digestive tract. Individuals with colon cancer may experience abdominal pain, changes in their bowel movement patterns, diarrhea or constipation, and the feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation. Surgery, radiofrequency ablation, and chemotherapy are among the commonly prescribed treatment options for this condition. Further, incorporating certain foods into one’s meal plan can help with the healing process. Superfoods to manage colon cancer Beans Beans are rich in flavonoids, compounds with several antioxidant properties that prevent colon cancer from spreading. They are also packed with fiber and vitamins B and E and can help replenish the body with essential nutrients. It helps to include different types of beans, including black beans, soybeans, kidney beans, lentils, peas, and pinto beans, in one’s meals while healing from cancer. Fatty fish Fatty or oily fish varieties, including salmon, swordfish, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids associated with anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit cancer progression and increase survival chances. Moreover, they contain high levels of vitamin D, which have also been shown to reduce mortality rates among patients. Broccoli Broccoli is a great source of sulforaphane, a phytochemical associated with cancer-fighting properties. In general, including broccoli and cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, kale, bok choy, and collards in one’s meal plan can be highly beneficial to affected people. Brown rice Studies have shown that having brown rice can help reduce the formation of polyps and inflammation associated with colorectal cancer. Further, brown rice is a healthier substitute for polished white rice, as it contains higher levels of fiber and manganese, selenium, and other vital nutrients. It can also help with the movement of stools among affected patients. Pomegranate Pomegranate entails an anti-carcinogenic effect, limiting tumor growth and slowing colon cancer progression.
9 types of resorts to avoid

9 types of resorts to avoid

Resorts are among the most popular accommodations for individuals, couples, and families on vacation. With their lush gardens, swimming pools, and overall laidback vibe, resorts are the perfect destinations for relaxation. However, not all resorts offer the best facilities and services, making some of them not worth the money. Say, a lack of cleanliness, improper security for guests, or poor service can make the stay unpleasant. So, here are some resorts one should avoid: 1. Resorts with poor housekeeping services Many budget-friendly resorts may compromise on cleanliness. Often, their staff may have not undergone proper training to keep rooms clean and sanitized at all times. So, one must not settle for unclean accommodation when they plan their vacation. While making holiday plans and booking accommodation online, one must check customer reviews to see if anyone has complained about unclean rooms, lobbies, pools, or hallways. Upon finding multiple complaints of poor housekeeping services, one should reconsider their decision to book a stay at the resort in question. 2. Poorly rated resorts Online ratings and reviews play an important role in the service and hospitality sectors. One can simply look up the name of a resort, and they will find everything there is to know about it through online ratings given by former guests. Along with guest ratings, one can read through good and bad stay experiences in reviews and understand what to expect during their stay. So, resort ratings can act as a meaningful reference point for those looking to book a stay. Resorts with poor ratings and reviews must be avoided, especially if a large number of guests have given the resort a negative review. Here, the chances of an unpleasant stay are higher. 3. Resorts with bad security Vacationers often take their families, including children, to resorts to get access to a variety of amenities in one place.
7 obvious signs indicating the need for home renovations

7 obvious signs indicating the need for home renovations

No matter how sophisticated or modern your house is, a little TLC now and then is necessary to maintain the property and ensure all its occupants are safe. You can ideally schedule a thorough home inspection where professionals point out some of the more glaring problems to tackle. But, even without that, some obvious signs of damage in and around the house will likely indicate the urgent need for a full home renovation. Water damage Water damage is a major sign of trouble that you should not ignore. A leak will result in additional problems, including growing mold, rotten materials, and rust. Water damage is common along the sidewalls and the roof, where the materials are constantly exposed to the weather, and major issues like roof leaks can result in costly repairs. If you spot a small leak in any of these areas, call a handyperson to assess its severity. Often, spotting a problem early eliminates the need for expensive repairs. The floor space is compromised The foundation of the house tends to weaken over time due to the weight and pressure on it. If you notice some of your furniture looking out of place or angled, check the floorboard underneath for damage. Also, if there is a basement underneath, you must ensure that the boards don’t cave in by replacing these panels at the earliest. Delaying repairs only increases the pressure on the foundation. Plus, some homes in areas prone to flooding are built on elevated stilts, exposing the foundation boards to more damage. Ensure you schedule regular home safety inspections where an expert checks and certifies the living spaces safe for residential purposes. Old windows and doors Loose window joints or cracked frames are some of the most obvious signs of internal wood damage. As the wooden elements are exposed to the weather outside and temperature changes indoors, these changes force the wood to expand and contract multiple times.
10 Black Friday home security deals that might be offered

10 Black Friday home security deals that might be offered

Ensuring the optimum safety of a home requires a bit of research to find the correct home security solutions. The holiday period proves to be the perfect time to invest in these home security systems, as the Black Friday sale lets you avail yourself of multiple deals as per your budget. Here are some estimates of the home security deals you can expect in 2022 based on offers from last year’s shopping season. 10 Black Friday home security deals to anticipate Level Lock The Black Friday sale is expected to bring more than a $50 discount on the set of smart locks offered by this brand. These are simple to install on the doors you currently have in your home. The locks also come in an in-touch edition and are app-enabled, so auto-lock and unlock can be easily achieved. Abode People looking for a home security system that works well with Alexa, Home Kit, and Google Assistant can opt for this brand. Abode is expected to provide its iota Security Kit at a discount of $70, just like last year. Furthermore, the Abode Cam 2 supports easy usage both indoors and outdoors and is also expected to be available at a discount of more than $12. Ring Video Bell The video bell is one of the most useful and popular home security solutions that lets you keep a check on the people entering your home. The device offers 1080p video streaming as well as recording. It provides two-way audio and smooth amalgamation with the Alexa smart home network. The product is also expected to be available at a discount of $20 during the holiday sale. Arlo Pro 3 Indoor/Outdoor Floodlight Camera These cameras are among the top devices available for securing homes, providing exceptional lighting, high-resolution streaming, and video capture.
Top 11 mistakes to avoid while getting a home loan

Top 11 mistakes to avoid while getting a home loan

Perhaps nothing is more comforting than having one’s home to return to at the end of a tiring day and to relax with loved ones. However, buying a home in the face of inflation and economic instability is no less than a mirage for most. On the bright side, taking home loans from reliable sources can help fulfill this dream. Here are some common mistakes home buyers should avoid while availing themselves of home loans: Not checking or improving credit score One’s credit score determines any moneylender’s ability to sanction a loan. An individual’s credit score is calculated considering various criteria, including one’s payment history, credit mix, and the total amount one owes. Therefore, it is important to check one’s credit score; if the scores are low, one should take the necessary steps to enhance this score, such as paying credit card debts on time, before applying for a home loan. Not understanding one’s capability to repay the loan Often, individuals cannot return the borrowed amount because they have overestimated their capability to repay their home loan. Such challenges typically stem from miscalculating the amount payable, including the interest rates applied to the principal amount. While applying for a home loan, one should check out one’s repayment capability vis-a-vis the aggregate amount repayable and the time it would take to repay it. Not purchasing an insurance cover Although one should hope for the best, preparing for the worst is equally imperative. An insurance cover provides one with financial reimbursement on a rainy day and helps with daily expenses and repaying loans. Thus, before taking a home loan, borrowers should purchase an insurance cover that can reimburse up to a considerable amount in case of unforeseen life events, such as an illness or an economic crisis. Not researching a lender’s background Frauds by moneylenders are not uncommon, and one can never be too careful when it comes to borrowing large sums for home loans.
10 essential cleaning tools every home should have

10 essential cleaning tools every home should have

If you’re planning to move to a new place or simply want to upgrade your cleaning supplies, there are some essential tools that you should keep within reach. These items will simplify your cleaning tasks and reduce your stress levels. Whether you enjoy cleaning or not, possessing these necessary tools will enhance your productivity and speed. Moreover, they are affordable and won’t put a dent in your wallet. Read on to learn more. Microfiber dusters Cleaning delicate and breakable items such as photo frames, light fixtures, and other knick-knacks with a cloth can be tricky. If you use a cloth, you know how troublesome it is to wipe it. To avoid damaging these delicate items while cleaning, use microfiber dusters. These are made of fine microfiber strands that lift off dust easily. Moreover, these are light and fluffy. You can simply use the handle to clean off everything without moving them. So there is no risk of breaking or damaging. Pan scrapers Sometimes you may forget to grease a baking dish or set a timer while cooking. This could lead to food residue sticking to the bottom of the pan with such intensity that aggressive scrubbing also does not help. Instead of wasting time scrubbing repeatedly, pan scrapers are an efficient way to clean a pan. All you need is some soap and hot water. Scrape the pan with these scrapers before putting them in the dishwasher. The scrapers are versatile enough to be used for any type of pot or pan. Power scrubber Also known as a drill brush set, these are great for getting rid of stains, dust, or anything else. These have brushes and sponges attached to a drill. So instead of using elbow grease, you can use the high-speed drill to make your shower squeaky clean quicker than ever.
Top 5 real estate sites for finding affordable homes

Top 5 real estate sites for finding affordable homes

Today, finding properties for sale can be easy, thanks to the plethora of online real estate platforms. Whether you are looking for a dream home or an investment opportunity, the Internet is one of the best ways to find real estate listings. However, to make an informed decision, you should choose the right platform based on your preferences. Here, examining the unique features of top platforms can help you find the most suitable option.  Zillow Zillow is one of the giants in the online real estate industry, as its user-friendly interface and comprehensive property listings make it a go-to platform for buyers and sellers alike. Zillow lists a vast array of property types, from single-family homes to condos and apartments, catering to a diverse range of preferences. You can explore homes for sale, for rent, and even recently sold properties, providing a comprehensive view of the market. Key features: Zillow provides an assortment of search filters, enabling you to narrow down your options based on budget, location, and property type. To find budget-friendly homes, set a desired price range, and the platform will present a curated list of properties that fulfill your search criteria. Zillow’s renowned Zestimate feature provides estimated property values, helping buyers gauge whether a property is priced competitively. Subscription model: While many Zillow features are free, the platform also offers a subscription service called Zillow Premier Agent, which provides real estate professionals with enhanced visibility and advertising opportunities. The service also offers features such as access to exclusive leads and advanced marketing tools. Realtor.com Realtor.com is affiliated with the National Association of Realtors, making it a reliable and credible source for property listings. The platform offers an extensive database of homes for sale across the country, making it a valuable resource for homebuyers. Realtor.com also provides insightful neighborhood information, such as access to schools and crime statistics, to help you make informed decisions.
11 ways to safeguard oneself from home title theft

11 ways to safeguard oneself from home title theft

A home title is the most important legal document for owning a house. It is physical evidence of ownership of land, apartment, house, or other real estate. A title document includes information about the property, from boundaries to ownership history. One has to produce this document to rent out, issue a mortgage loan, or sell the property. But title theft is a real concern, and here are some ways to protect oneself from it. Can a home title be stolen? Yes, a title document can be stolen and misused. Home title theft may not always involve the physical theft of a paper document, but it can involve fraudulent actions that result in a theft of one’s rights related to the said property. Some common ways this is done include impersonating legal entities, breaching data, intercepting personal emails, hacking records and public Wi-Fi, and more. How can a home title be misused? The title deed is recorded in the local government’s land records or registrar’s office. A scammer may manipulate the record and use it to undertake property-related transactions. These transactions include registering a fake deed, selling or renting the property without the owner’s consent or knowledge, or obtaining mortgages. If left unreported or ignored, the valid property owner may face financial losses and be stuck with the burden of proving their ownership, which can quickly become a lengthy and costly legal process. 11 ways to protect oneself from home title theft Here are some steps to safeguard against home title theft: Regularly check the property title Obtaining a copy of one’s property’s title from one’s local county recorder’s office or through an online service is advisable. One should review it for accuracy and ensure no unauthorized changes or transfers have occurred. Title insurance One of the best ways to secure one’s home title is to purchase insurance from a legitimate title company.
Smart home devices – 10 best Black Friday deals

Smart home devices – 10 best Black Friday deals

Every year, Black Friday comes with some of the most exciting deals. This day is meant to make everyone happy, both shoppers and retailers. Shoppers through the amazing deals available and retailers by the increased footfall and sales. From furniture to smart home devices, the list of products offered is endless. If you are considering buying some of the latest smart home devices on sale this Black Friday, then the following list might help you. Amazon Echo One of the most talked about smart home devices is the Amazon Echo. Alexa guides you through endless recipes and other instructional videos on voice command. The camera shutter gives privacy, and an entire home can be controlled by just one device. This product is likely to be on sale this Black Friday. Arlo Security Camera An indoor and outdoor security camera is almost necessary for a smart home. The features are endless as it streams at a 2K resolution and is fully weatherproof. The Arlo Security Camera is more suitable than other 1080p cameras. There is two-way audio that lets you see and communicate clearly with people before you let them into your home. On this sale extravaganza day, you can avail yourself of this device as it could be offered at a reasonable rate. LIFX Color Bulb If you wish to use lighting in a particular room depending on the activity or work you do, like gaming or sleeping, the LIFX color bulbs can be of great use. These lights can give you the ambiance you have longed for in your smart home. You just have to buy it at a pocket-friendly amount from Amazon on Black Friday 2022. Level Lock Deadbolt The Level Lock Touch Edition deadbolt is a great smart home device that could be perfect to keep the security of your home intact.
Top 10 Cyber Monday 2022 deals on home security systems

Top 10 Cyber Monday 2022 deals on home security systems

Have you been waiting to buy a home security system for your house? Then Cyber Monday is the best time to save a lot of money on high-tech security devices. You can score some of the best deals and offers during the sale season and make your home safer and better protected. Here are some of the best offers on home security systems that you can expect based on last year’s deals. Abode Iota kit Abode offers some of the best home security options to get robust round-the-clock protection for your house. Its Iota security kit comes with cameras, a starter kit, and other components like glass-break sensors and motion sensors. The system works with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google Assistant to help enhance your home security. On Cyber Monday, you could get it for $259 instead of its regular price of $329. SimpliSafe: The Essentials Security System With this SimpliSafe system, you get 24/7 professional monitoring for your home. It is a DIY system that comes with a base station, keypad, entry sensors, motion sensors, and indoor cameras. On Cyber Monday, you could save almost 45% on this product. Arlo Pro 4 Security Cam Bundle This home security bundle has two wire-free indoor and outdoor cameras with night vision. It offers 2K live streaming, compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa, and comes with a siren and a spotlight. On Cyber Monday, you could save $100 and get this bundle for $499.99. Blink Mini Security Camera Although Blink Mini security systems are already affordable, during the sale season , you could get them at just $20. This compact indoor plug-in camera features 1080p HD video, two-way audio, motion detection, and night vision, and it works with Alexa. Ring Stick Up Standard Security Camera Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, this security camera offers 1080p HD video, privacy zones, advanced motion detection, a versatile mounting bracket, two-way talk, and mobile notifications.