Whether you’re planning on hitting the road for spring or summer break or launching yourself into home improvement projects, Discover’s bonus categories for the second quarter of 2024 can offer some value for your spending.
From April 1 through June 30, 2024, holders of eligible cards like the Discover it® Cash Back and Discover it® Student Cash Back can earn 5% cash back at gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, home improvement stores and on public transit, on up to $1,500 in combined spending for the quarter. All other purchases earn 1% cash back. Activation is required to be eligible for the higher rewards rate.
Here’s what you need to know about which purchases qualify.
Discover bonus rewards categories for 2024
Q1 (Jan. 1–March 31)
Restaurants.
Drugstores.
Q2 (April 1–June 30)
Gas stations/EV charging stations.
Home improvement stores.
Public transit.
Q3 (July 1–Sept. 30)
TBD (In 2023: Gas stations; digital wallets).
Q4 (Oct. 1–Dec. 31)
TBD (In 2023: Amazon, Target).
Discover’s Q2 bonus categories unpacked
Discover’s 5% categories come with terms. For the second quarter of 2024, here’s what will qualify:
Gas stations and EV charging stations
To earn the bonus rate, a purchase must be classified as made with a place that sells automotive gasoline or offers an electric vehicle charging station to the public. When you’re on the go, those purchases made at the pump or inside the gas station may also qualify for the elevated rewards rate.
Some purchases may not qualify, such as those made at supermarkets, supercenters, wholesale clubs and parking garages.
Public transit
Eligible public transit purchases that earn 5% back will include passenger buses, railways, ferries, taxis and rideshare services made in the U.S. Long-range passenger land, rail and water transportation services won’t qualify.
Home improvement stores
If you’re planning some home renovation projects or need to stock up on supplies, you can earn more value by doing it within Discover’s promotional window.
Eligible purchases will include those made online and in store at home improvement stores; building supply stores like lumber, paint and hardware stores; and lawn, nursery and garden supply stores. Purchases made through third parties like contractors may not qualify to earn 5% back. And purchases made at stores that offer home furnishings, home appliances, plumbing, heating supply and floor coverings won’t qualify.
Maximizing Discover’s Q2 bonus categories for 2024
To make the most of your bonus categories for the quarter, don’t forget these steps:
Log in to your Discover account to activate the bonus categories.
Use your Discover card for any purchases you make in those categories.
Track spending to know when or whether you’ve reached the $1,500 spending limit. (You can view an automated tracker while signed in to your Discover account.)
Considering the Discover it® Cash Back?
The Discover it® Cash Back card can be a worthy contender for your wallet if you’re organized enough to keep track of bonus categories that change every quarter and require activation. It’ll also work best if you’re not in the habit of maintaining a monthly balance, as the card’s steep interest charges will chip away at the value of rewards.
The card’s features include:
Annual fee:$0.
APR:0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, and then the ongoing APR of 17.24%-28.24% Variable APR.
Sign-up bonus: INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
In today’s volatile housing market, ensuring your home is protected against unexpected repairs and replacements is more crucial than ever. As homeowners seek peace of mind amidst the unpredictability of homeownership, home warranty companies have stepped up to offer a buffer against unforeseen expenses.
5 Best Home Warranty Companies
With so many options available, pinpointing the most reliable and value-packed home warranty company can be daunting. To help you choose, we’ve curated a list of the best home warranty companies to ensure your home’s systems and appliances receive the top-tier coverage they deserve. Take the time to discover which provider aligns best with your needs.
#1 Choice Home Warranty
There are plenty of reasons to go with Choice Home Warranty. First, they are a top-rated business according to ConsumerAffairs.com and have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
They have a five-star rating from Trust Pilot, and Inc. 5000 has recognized them as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies.
Choice has customer service available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So if you’ve got a problem, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call them.
They are more than happy to answer any questions about your home warranty plan or, if need be, put in a request for a repair. A licensed, pre-screened, and continuously monitored technician will come to your house, usually within one or two business days.
The age of your home, its systems, and appliances is not relevant to Choice Home Warranty. They always cover items that have been properly maintained and were in well-working order when coverage was initiated.
If the item in question needs to be replaced but is no longer available on the market, they will give you a cash payment of the item’s replacement cost.
Another plus is that you don’t even have to get your home inspected before Choice Home Warranty will begin offering you coverage.
Choice also has a very reasonable $85 dollar service call, which makes them among the most competitive warranty providers for service calls.
Plan Options
1. Total Plan ($450 a year)
Includes coverage on the following —
AC
Heating
Electrical
Plumbing
Water Heater
Whirlpool
Refrigerator
Oven
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garbage Disposal
Washer and Dryer
Ductwork
Garage Door Opener
Ceiling and Exhaust Fans
2. Basic Plan ($378 a year)
Includes coverage on everything mentioned above, EXCEPT:
AC
Refrigerator
Washer and Dryer
Items that can be added at additional cost include:
Pool
Central Vacuum
Well and Sump Pump
Limited Roof Leak
Stand Alone Freezer
Second Refrigerator
Septic System
Septic Pumping
Read our full review of Choice Home Warranty
#2 Advanced Home Warranty
Advanced Home Warranty offers comprehensive coverage and a 24/7 claims hotline, making it a strong choice for anyone considering a home warranty.
Home warranties are available nationwide, so you can qualify for a plan, no matter where you live in the U.S. Plus, you can try it out without any risk by signing up to get your first month completely free of charge.
Trade service fees are reasonable at $60. If the cost of the repair is less, you’ll pay the smaller amount. This is one of the lowest service fees available among the providers on our list.
While they don’t offer a wide range of plans, you can get coverage on some of the big-ticket items associated with homeownership.
A low monthly fee can be much more manageable than paying for replacements outright every time an appliance breaks. There are also parts of even larger systems that are included in their coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of the two home warranty plans available from Advanced Home Warranty, how much you’ll pay, and what exactly they include.
1. Basic Plan ($370 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on the following:
Heating System
Electrical System
Plumbing System
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garage Door Opener
2. Total Plan ($450 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on everything above, PLUS:
Air Conditioning
Refrigerator
Washer/Dryers
Do read each home warranty plan for details on exactly how each specific item on the list is covered.
Read our full review of Advanced Home Warranty
#3 Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard offers a high degree of personalization for your home warranty coverage. For example, you can pick the plan and also how often you want to be billed.
You can choose monthly payments, annual payments, or for the most savings, multi-year home warranty plans.
Liberty Home Guard offers a service call fee of $60, which is a competitive service fee. You can also expect your service call to be delivered within 48 hours of making a claim.
You don’t need a home inspection to qualify for coverage with Liberty Home Guard. There’s also no limit to how many claims you can file within a year.
You can file your claims online for your ease and convenience. And with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee on service, you’re sure to be satisfied with the repair or replacement process.
If for some reason, you want to cancel your plan early, it’s entirely possible because there’s no annual contract. You’ll receive a prorated refund for any time you’ve paid for, except for a small administrative fee.
With Liberty Home Guard, there are three different coverage options you can choose from. You can also include optional add-ons in any plan.
1. Appliance Warranty for $39.99 Monthly or $399.99 Annually
Clothes washer
Clothes dryer
Refrigerator with ice maker dispenser
Built-in microwave oven
Dishwasher
Garbage disposal
Range/ oven/ cooktop
Ceiling and exhaust fans
Garage door opener
2. Systems Guard for $49.99 Monthly or $499.99 Annually
Air conditioning
Heating
Ductwork
Plumbing
Electrical
Water heaters
3. Total Home Guard for $59.99 Monthly or $599.99 Annually
This choice offers the most protection of all the plans and includes everything listed in the two plans above.
4. Optional Add-ons
Pool and spa: $17.00 monthly; $195.00 annually
Sump and pump: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Central vacuum: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Well pump: $9.00 monthly; $101.00 annually
Additional spa: $16.00 monthly; $188.00 annually
Septic system and septic sewage ejector pump: $11.00 monthly; $123.00 annually
Stand alone freezer: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Second refrigerator: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Read our full review of Liberty Home Guard
#4 Complete Protection
Complete Protection is another excellent home warranty company. Servicing all but nine states, this A+ Accredited Business is open 24/7.
Only slightly more expensive, this once small-scale, family-owned business offers some of the most comprehensive home warranties available in North America.
One of the many benefits offered by Complete Protection is their no-fee service call policy. With most quality providers charging at least $50 per service call, having no service call fee at all is a major perk.
They have five plans you can choose from:
Kitchen/Laundry: $32 a month/ $384 a year — covers your dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Heating/Cooling: $34 a month/ $408 a year — covers your furnace, AC, and water heater.
Basic Built-ins: $40 a month/ $400 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, and oven.
Full House: $50 a month/ $600 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Full House Plus: $60 a month/ $720 a year — Includes everything mentioned in the first four plans, but also includes electrical wiring and in-bound water pipes.
What makes Complete Protection stand out even more:
There are a few other things that make Complete Protection stand out from its competitors. For one, their home warranties don’t have a deductible. As a result, you don’t have to pay any approved repair costs when something happens — this includes the initial service call, parts, and labor.
Secondly, CP pays for all preventative maintenance. Other home warranty companies mandate that their customers undergo preventative maintenance on items such as HVAC systems, but they won’t even pay for it. Instead, they force their customers to do so!
Thirdly, CP home warranties cover all the parts within an appliance. Most home warranty companies exclude parts like ice makers or washing racks within dishwashers. CP does not pick and choose which parts it will cover.
Lastly, Complete Protection allows you to choose your own service contract provider. So, if you have a certified contractor with whom you work, you can go to them whenever home repairs are needed.
They do this because they feel that their customers should always be comfortable with the person working in their house.
Read our full review of Complete Protection
#5: American Home Shield
The accolades American Home Shield has received are many. In addition to being a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, they also received the Women’s Choice Award from 2014 to 2016.
On top of that, Home Warranty Reviews gave American Home Shield the Best in Service award in 2014 and ranked them as Top Rated from 2015-2017. Last but not least, they are Consumer Affairs Accredited.
Why so much recognition from the industry? For starters, they’re always open. You can always reach them regardless of what day or time it is. And, when you do, expect a local contractor to be at your home within no more than 24 hours. You don’t even have to get on the phone. You can request home repairs directly from their website.
Another reason American Home Shield is recognized as the best among the best is its versatility with its home warranty plans. They have four to choose from:
Systems Plan: Covers the replacement or repair of your home’s key systems, such as: plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, and smoke detectors.
Appliances Plan: Includes coverage on common, everyday household appliances, such as refrigerators, built-in food processors, dishwashers, and washer and dryers.
Combo Plan: Get coverage on all of your primary home systems and appliances. Saves you $14 a month if you were to rather purchase the systems and appliances plans separately.
Build your own plan: Choose only what you want to be covered by selecting 10 or more items from their list of covered items. This way you get the coverage that you care about the most.
Another element of their customized service is their service fees. American Home Shield allows customers to choose from a service fees range of $75, $100 or $125 per service request. This allows you to get the plan you want without having to account for a high service call fee.
The ability to choose your own service call fee regardless of the plan you’re on separates American Home Shield from most other home warranty companies which carry a standard service call fee.
Additionally, American Home Shield can provide coverage for your pool, spa, well pump, and septic system (at additional costs) and can assist you during the moving process by covering your home while it’s listed. If the new owner decides they would like to upgrade service afterward, it’s an easy switch to do so at closing.
Read our full review of American Home Shield
Methodology: How We Chose The Best Home Warranty Companies
When researching the best home warranty companies, we analyzed over 20 of the most popular home warranty companies. Our team spent hours reviewing each home warranty company. We examined many factors, but mainly focused on the following:
Home warranty plans and options
Pricing
Reputation and trustworthiness
Customer reviews
Pros of Home Warranties
Peace of Mind
One of the major benefits of a good home warranty is peace of mind. A home warranty can bring some real financial security against unexpected home repairs. While getting your home in ideal shape can be tough, maintaining that level can be even more stressful. A good warranty coverage can cut away a big chunk of that worry.
Convenience
One of the biggest problems people can encounter when faced with unexpected breakdown at home is finding good help. But a home warranty also reduces some of that stress, as your provider can provide you with a relevant licensed expert within their network.
Potential Savings
In many cases, standard home repairs – such as a new boiler, for example – can be a lot cheaper if replaced under warranty. While home warranties can’t guarantee savings, chances are you will see the benefits speak for themselves over time.
Transferable
Many home warranties are transferable, meaning you could carry your plan to a new home if you decide to move. Be sure to check whether transferability is a feature of any warranty before signing if that’s important to you.
Cons of Home Warranties
Wait Times
Unfortunately, wait times for claims can sometimes keep you waiting. If you need a quick fix or emergency repairs at home, you may have to wait longer than you would like. One thing that can help here is looking for a provider that provides an online claims process. This is because online claims are often processed faster than those done over the phone.
Coverage Exclusions
Home warranties don’t cover everything, and it can be hard in an emergency to remember your exact coverage limits. It’s important to read the details carefully before signing up, and put a plan in place if you need work that falls outside your warranty coverage.
Cost
Home warranty coverage isn’t cheap, especially if you want to secure protection across your property. You won’t necessarily be covered by service fees, even if you choose a plan with a high service fee. And of course, some maintenance and repairs can come with further costs on top of your plan. These high costs can make it difficult to discern whether a home warranty is the right thing for you.
Other Home Warranty Companies to Consider
Here are a few other home warranty companies that didn’t make our top 5 that you may still want to look into.
Like so many things in our lives, a home warranty is something that we don’t often think about until we absolutely need it. Sure, you have home insurance, maybe even flood insurance, but that only covers certain situations.
Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners or renters insurance can cover damage to your home from things like fire, theft, storms, and some natural disasters. In addition to your homeowners insurance plan, you should choose to purchase a home warranty to protect your belongings in a way that insurance lacks.
If you’ve ever purchased a large appliance, a computer, or even a television from a retailer, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a warranty.
However, those are warranties sold at the time of purchase and cover only one product. The benefit of home warranty protection is that it can cover every product in your home and more.
Choosing a Home Warranty Plan
What a home warranty plan covers will depend on the plan you choose, and there are many to choose from. A home warranty can cover anything from your microwave oven to your plumbing and your electrical systems.
Deciding which plan is right for you will determine what items and systems it covers and how much it will cost. Typically, home warranties charge either a small monthly or annual fee that can save you a lot of money in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Home Warranty
Choosing the right home warranty is key. Let’s run through all the details you need to consider before making your decision.
Determine Your Coverage Needs
At the very least, it’s important to get at least an idea of what sort of coverage you need. Take the time to decide which items in your home you want to protect before comparing offers. You’ll find plans that cover appliances, home systems, and plans that cover both.
Compare Quotes
It’s worthwhile to shop around. Try to acquire at least three different quotes from plans that you’re genuinely interested in. And use this time to also prioritize clearing up any questions you have about the policies you’ve been offered.
Don’t forget to pay close attention to the various prices you’ll see for service call fees. Some companies are much more competitive than others, and some even offer a service fees range which you can choose from depending on your needs and budget.
Review Sample Contracts & Liabilities
The next step is to review any sample contracts carefully. You’ll want to identify the limitations and exclusions in the contract, especially.
Furthermore, be sure to double-check cancellation policy just in case you decide your warranty isn’t working for you later on.
Check Reviews
Finding the best home warranty company for you will require some further research. You can read customer reviews online to find a company that provides great customer service as well as competitive plans.
Be sure to look out for any record of previous legal action taken against the company, too.
Home Warranty FAQ
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a type of service contract purchased to cover breakdowns, repairs, and replacements of home appliances and systems. Home warranties are designed to cover normal wear-and-tear damage on covered items and systems.
When a covered item breaks down or otherwise requires attention, you file a claim with your warranty provider. They then send a licensed technician to your home to assess the issue. Instead of paying for the full cost of the repair, being under warranty generally means paying only a small service fee for necessary repairs. The price of service fees varies between providers.
Home warranties are popular because they offer homeowners maintenance coverage and emergency repairs without having to rely on savings. The home warranty market today is huge and can provide terms for homes and budgets of many shapes and sizes.
What does a home warranty cover?
Home warranties can cover a whole range of systems and appliances within your home. You can decide how much you want to spend and determine what items will be covered by your home warranty.
Most home warranty companies break down their offerings into good, better, and best options. The good option, and least expensive, is one that covers most if not all of your appliances.
Major Home Systems
More expensive on an upfront basis are plans that cover major home systems. These home warranty plans cover the systems within your home. If you’re renting, this may not be of concern to you. However, if you own your home, you know that a plumber or electrician can cost a lot more than replacing your refrigerator.
If you’re less concerned with appliances and worried about what keeps your home humming along, then you may want to consider a system plan.
Appliances
Appliances like your microwave, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and often a lot more are covered by the best home warranty companies. These are great options for those who are renting or want to spend the least amount of money.
Systems & Appliances
The most expensive plans, of course, offer the most coverage. The best plans cover both systems and appliances. So while they’re the most expensive, they’re also the best value. Covering your systems and appliances together will typically save you around 20% to 30% of your total bill.
Basic plans from the best home warranty companies will cover the majority of systems and appliances in your home but don’t cover everything. If you have a pool, for instance, you may have to choose additional coverage.
Some home warranty companies even allow you to add coverage to cover your homeowners’ insurance deductible. Combining appliance and system coverage may also include these additions.
There are exclusions to what a home warranty will cover. Unfortunately, no plan is a blank check to have every item in your home replaced. These are repair plans and not replacement plans.
What is not covered by a home warranty?
The extent of your warranty coverage will vary greatly between companies and plans available. Having said that, however, here is a list of the ideas that are usually not covered by a home warranty:
Structural issues, paint and flooring
Commercial-grade equipment or systems
Pre-existing conditions
Rust, corrosion and sediment problems
Improper maintenance, installation, design, or manufacturer defect
Detection and removal of asbestos and mold
Building and zoning code violations
How much does a home warranty cost?
Home warranty pricing varies greatly depending on the coverage you choose, the home warranty company, and the area in which you live. In general, though, if you’re just covering appliances, expect to pay around $30 a month.
If you’re looking for only system coverage, you’ll probably pay around $35 a month. However, if you combine your coverage to include both systems and appliances, expect to pay around $45 per month.
Adding things not covered by a typical home warranty plan can also increase your monthly bill. If you have an atypical appliance or system, it’s possible that basic plans do not cover it. Not everyone has a swimming pool, a septic tank, a whirlpool tub, or a spa.
Check with your individual plan to ensure that all systems and appliances you want to have covered are actually included. If they aren’t, see if you can add them separately.
Service Fees
In addition to your monthly fee, you’ll also need to pay service fees for a service call. This cost can vary greatly.
The best home warranty companies offer plans that will cost you around $50 to $125 per repair. This is based on the home warranty company, the plan, and the item that needs to be fixed. While this may seem like a lot, consider the cost of the average repair without a warranty.
What can you expect to pay without a home warranty?
The average repair cost of a refrigerator is $275 to $325. The igniter on an oven or range may only cost $110 to $200 to repair, but a control board could cost you more than $260.
Replacing a rubber gasket on your washer will set you back between $200 to $300. These expenses can quickly add up compared to the fee home warranty companies charge for a visit.
Bottom line: They’ll address the issues with your current item but won’t give you a new one.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Pre-existing conditions are not covered either. Unfortunately, if one of your major appliances breaks, you can’t just sign up for coverage and expect to have it fixed.
Most home warranty companies will cover an unknown pre-existing condition. However, you can’t have an appliance covered if you or the home warranty provider knows that it’s already broken. This is why it’s a good idea to think about purchasing home warranty coverage before your appliances break.
Coverage Waiting Period
Most companies impose a 15 to 30 day waiting period before coverage can begin. There are, however, exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you have a home warranty that is ending soon, you may be able to begin on the date your coverage stops.
It’s important to read the fine print of your service contract. Each home warranty company will have very specific coverage details.
While all will most likely cover your refrigerator, not all of them will cover wear and tear on the gasket that seals it. Typically, the more expensive the plan, the more it covers, but this is not always the case.
What is the process for having an item repaired?
When something breaks, especially if you have a home warranty, you’ll want it fixed as quickly as possible.
Going without a microwave for a week or two may be acceptable, but if it’s your refrigerator, you may not be so patient. When an item malfunctions or breaks, you’ll need to contact your home warranty company’s customer service and explain the issue.
Make sure you report the problem as quickly as possible. The faster you make the call, the faster you’ll get an appointment and have your issue resolved.
Independent Contractors
The home warranty provider will most likely assign an independent contractor to inspect and repair the item. Obviously, system repairs can take longer and be more labor-intensive.
For example, replacing a part on your furnace will be a lot easier than repairing electrical wiring or plumbing inside your walls.
Depending on what is wrong, the contractor may have to order parts or return with specialized equipment. You’ll be required to pay a service fee for each item you wish to have repaired. However, the contractor should ensure that the item returns to working order.
Workmanship Guarantee
Once you’ve had an appliance or system repaired, that item is covered under a workmanship guarantee. Think of it as a warranty within your warranty.
The home warranty provider guarantees the parts and labor of that particular repair for a specified amount of time. This is usually around 90 to 180 days after the repair. So, even if you cancel your plan, they will still cover the repair during that time.
Who should pay for a home warranty?
Many times the seller will buy a home warranty to make the purchase of the home more appealing. Sometimes a real estate agent will even purchase a home warranty as a courtesy to the clients they’re representing. However, buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and current homeowners can all buy a home warranty. It’s also important to note that buying a home warranty can be done at any time, before or after closing.
What should you look for in a home warranty company?
A home warranty can save you a lot of hassle and headaches, not to mention money, down the road—as long as you do your homework and think it through.
A home warranty covers many things that homeowners insurance does not. Having peace of mind knowing that costly home repairs won’t spring up unexpectedly is a great feeling.
Choosing the right type of coverage for you is the next step. When you think about the type of coverage you want, think about the items you want to protect in your home.
Renters
If you’re just renting, then plumbing and electrical work is not a concern for you. Your homeowners insurance should cover things like theft and fire, but you still want to be covered when something breaks that you actually own. Choosing an appliance plan is probably the right option for you.
If you live in an older home that you own, a more comprehensive plan may be the right choice for you. It’s comforting to have your home inspected before purchasing, but things can still go wrong. You can avoid costly maintenance as long as you plan ahead.
Are home warranties worth it?
The answer to this question will depend largely on your unique circumstances. Two of the biggest factors are the age of your home and the quality of your appliances. In addition, your own ability and comfort with repair and maintenance is a factor.
Almost every home appliance and system will eventually require significant repair or even replacement. Depending on your own DIY skills, you might be comfortable taking responsibility for most repairs. Others might want more comprehensive coverage. But even still, there could be plenty of reasons why you would prefer to have a home warranty.
How do I cancel my home warranty?
Your first step should be to review your contract and make sure you understand the cancellation policy. Most companies will charge a cancellation fee that can range from 5% to 10% of the outstanding fee.
Thereafter, you can contact the company and tell them you’re considering cancelling your warranty. If possible, try to speak to a sales rep with whom you’re familiar.
Some companies require you to send a written notice of termination. Remember to cancel any automated payments from your credit card or bank account, if necessary. It might also be a good idea to request a written confirmation of the cancellation for your records.
Which home warranty company has the lowest service call fee?
Service call fees can vary widely between companies, but it’s important to try to find the most competitive service call fee available to you. Service fees generally range from $50 to $150 per service call.
The trick with finding a competitive service fee call is making sure you don’t sacrifice the quality of service calls. Some of the top-rated home warranty companies charge a higher service fee. However, it could be worth it to have the security and confidence of quality home service.
Final Thoughts
To find the best home warranty company, you will need to read the contract thoroughly. Every company that you investigate will have a contract. In that contract, they’ll spell out exactly what they do and do not cover.
They’ll also explain the cost, who will fix your items if they break, and more. Comparing two or more home warranty companies can give you a sense that you’ve made the right decision. Always make sure you do your homework.
Furthermore, check to see if a home inspection is required before qualifying for a home warranty with a specific company. Many don’t require this extra step, but it’s wise to be prepared in case they do. You definitely want to consider both cost and convenience as part of your ultimate decision.
Full Reviews of Home Warranty Companies
Looking for more options? Check out our other home warranty reviews below.
There are many changes you can make to reduce the environmental impact your home and your daily life has on the planet. Even simple adjustments like using green cleaning products, finding ways to reuse your kitchen scraps, or locking your windows shut, can lead to less waste and energy savings. Whether you just bought a house in Miami, Los Angeles, or anywhere in between, here are some great ways to save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and save money all from the comfort of your own home.
Reconsider your grocery shopping habits
To reduce waste and save energy at home, adopt eco-friendly grocery shopping habits.
“Subscribing to a milk delivery service with reusable glass bottles, reusing bags at a bulk grocery store, and selecting glass or metal packaging can make a tremendous difference in reducing our consumption of plastics,” says Lyons, CO-based BrightHeart Decor.
These simple adjustments in your grocery shopping routine can make a significant difference in promoting sustainability at home.
Save energy with LED lighting
In addition to upgrading the look of your home’s interior, changing up the lighting can make your home more efficient. LED bulbs are much more energy-efficient than other alternatives, and incorporating them throughout your home is an easy way to conserve energy.
“The easiest DIY way to save energy is to install LED lighting and click the thermostat one to two degrees up or down,” according to Edge Energy “Another way to conserve energy is to get an energy audit and do basic installations of any cost-effective retrofits.”
Reduce your household’s consumption of water
A common area of waste in many households is water usage. The average US household consumes over 300 gallons of water per day, and much of this is unnecessary. If you’re looking for ways to save water, simply being mindful of when the water is running unnecessarily can go a long way.
“Try cutting down on your daily water usage at home by saving six liters of water a minute by turning off your tap while you brush your teeth,” suggests Bamboodu, an online store that specializes in eco-friendly products. “Use natural biodegradable cleaning products that don’t contain chemicals, and install taps and showers with automatic shut-off.”
Use smart home technology to save energy and avoid expensive repairs
We all know that technology has made our lives easier, but it can also save money by reducing energy waste. Sensors on home appliances can not only prevent food and energy waste, but also alert homeowners to potential issues that could prove costly if missed.
“Smart homes enable homeowners to save energy and money by automatically regulating lights and thermostats using geofencing and motion sensor technology,” says Agile Home Automation. “Leak detectors can notify homeowners of problems before they become costly repair situations. Freezer and refrigerator sensors can notify homeowners if a door is not closed properly, or if the unit is beginning to fail before the food is ruined.”
“Using automation for lighting, temperature control, and window coverings is the most cost-effective way to reduce waste, and manage and save energy use in your home,” adds Brad Smith, president of Audio Video Design. “Today’s products sync with circadian rhythms and the astronomical clock for personal and precise customization.”
Be friendly to the environment (and your pocket) by going solar
With recent improvements in solar technology, saving money on electricity with solar panels is easier than it’s ever been. Take advantage of clean energy and save yourself some money in the process.
“Homeowners can install solar on their roof or property and pay no more than they were paying for electricity before, and hedge against rising electric costs while making the planet a cleaner place to live,” says Madison, NJ -based Green House Solar. “Not only will solar save energy, but it will also increase the resale value of your home.”
“Homeowners can save energy and get a greater return on investment by pairing their solar system with a smart home system,” adds Freedom Forever, a Temecula, CA-based company that combines solar and smart technology. “These systems enable homeowners to schedule when appliances consume electricity, allowing you to use more of your solar power and send less to the grid.
Find ways to save and reuse your produce
A great way to prevent food waste is by getting the most out of your produce scraps. Get more out of your veggies by using the scraps for a homemade vegetable broth.
“To make the most of your produce, save your vegetable scraps,” says blogger Nutti Nelli. “Once you fill up a half-gallon of scraps, bring five cups of water to a boil and add your veggie scraps, one teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of black pepper, and simmer for one hour. Drain the scraps, and now you have four cups of vegetable broth to use for cooking, soups, curries, or stews.”
Think twice about the cleaning products you’re using
When it comes to eco-friendly cleaning products, the first thing that probably comes to mind is biodegradable products. While these are great, you can go a step further by eliminating plastic packaging entirely.
“Save space and eliminate plastic from your cleaning routine when you use USDA certified biobased products,” says Beyond Clean Products, a company that specializes in eco-friendly cleaning products. “Consider incorporating detergent sheets and auto dish tabs that are 100 percent plastic-free.”
Keep windows locked to avoid any air leaks
Whether you’re running the AC during the summer or heating your home in the chilly winter months, the last thing you want is to run up your bill because of air leaks. Locking your windows not only secures your home, but also the air inside it.
“Keep your windows locked to save energy in your home, says Home Energy Saving Solutions. “The lock is not only for security, but it also keeps the window close-packed and creates a seal along the weather-stripping of the window. An unlocked window is an open window.”
Recycle your leftover household paint
If you’ve got leftover paint lying around after a recent home project, you may be wondering how exactly you’re supposed to get rid of it. Product Care Recycling cautions against simply throwing old paint in the trash.
“A fresh coat of paint can give your home new life,” they say. “However, leftover paint, like other hazardous household products, does not belong in the trash. It should be recycled to avoid contaminating our soil and water sources and to divert landfill waste.”
Enrich your soil and decrease landfill waste
Whether you already have a home garden or just want to help the environment, composting is a great way to get the most out of your food waste. The planet will appreciate it and so will your plants.
“Composting is one of the most impactful actions you can take to both reduce household waste heading to landfills and create an ultra-nourishing natural resource that your garden will love,” says Sustainable Jungle, a website that shares sustainability tips and tricks. “Some cities even offer discounts on composters to help encourage this community supporting activity.”
Use dimmable indoor lighting
Home lighting is another area where energy waste can take place. Since most light bulbs operate at full capacity when turned on, you may end up using more energy than you need to keep your home lit, especially during the day. Dimmable lights give your home a more natural glow, saving energy in the process.
“One of the most effective ways to reduce your electricity bill is to install a lighting control system or smart lighting,” says TSP Smart Spaces. “We’re all used to running our lights at 100 percent, but the reality is that not only do we not need to use 100 percent of the energy of a bulb all the time. Dimmable LEDs create a much more enjoyable living experience, and natural lighting that costs 20 to 50 percent less to run compared to regular switches.”
This week on “CBS Mornings,” lifestyle expert Elizabeth Werner discussed deals on items that might make your life easier — all at exclusive discounts. Discover this week’s exclusive deals below and visit CBSDeals.com or text “CBS” to 65000 to take advantage of them today.
Disclaimer: CBS earns commissions on purchases made through CBSDeals.com. Deals available for a limited time and while quantities last. Prices may change from the date of publication.
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Lily Rose
Lily Rose is a senior writer for CBS Essentials and the site’s expert in home appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators and ranges. When she’s not writing about how you can upgrade your laundry room, she’s writing about home and kitchen essentials that will transform your space. Her favorite appliance is her air fryer. She firmly believes that it can make the crispiest sweet potato fries.
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In the digital age, the concept of home is being reimagined by the advent of smart technology, transforming everyday living spaces into hubs of convenience, comfort and entertainment. Never has this been so clear as when you take even a cursory tour of the HGTV Smart Home 2023. If you need further evidence of just how expansive this industry is becoming, a study by Grand View Research, Inc. determined that the home automation industry will reach a staggering $444.98 billion by 2030.
Smart home technology, once fodder for dystopian storylines on TV, has evolved into a widely accepted seamless integration of devices and systems that streamline tasks, enhance security and personalize our environment. From the moment you wake to the soft glow of a sunrise simulation to the reassuring click of a smart lock securing your home at night, these intelligent systems work collaboratively to simplify routines, conserve resources and provide peace of mind. Smart home devices not only respond to our immediate commands but also anticipate our needs, learn our preferences and adapt to our lifestyles, offering a bespoke living experience that was once the stuff of science fiction.
Image Source: HGTV
Noteworthy tech in the HGTV Smart Home 2023
Each year, HGTV builds a new, technologically advanced home in a different location within the United States. The contest is typically run as a sweepstakes, where viewers can enter for a chance to win the annual smart home. Entries are usually accepted online through the HGTV website or via mail. The main prize is, of course, the HGTV Smart Home itself, which includes the home, all of its furnishings and the latest home technology. In addition to the home, there are often other prizes, like cash awards or vehicles.
Coolest devices in the 2023 HGTV Smart Home
Laid out below are just a few of the most highly sought-after pieces of smart home tech in this year’s HGTV Smart Home 2023 and their less expensive counterparts.
GE Profile Kitchen hub
The GE Profile Kitchen Hub is a unique and high-tech kitchen appliance from General Electric. It’s designed to serve multiple functions and is geared towards making the kitchen experience more interactive and connected.
Interactive screen: The GE Profile Kitchen Hub features a large touchscreen display that can be used to access recipes, watch videos, control smart home devices and more.
Vent hood: The screen is built into a vent hood, allowing it to sit above your range or cooktop. This design not only provides essential ventilation but also offers a central view for following recipes or watching videos as you cook.
Cameras: The device includes front-facing and downward-facing cameras. The front-facing camera can be used for video calls, while the downward-facing camera is intended to capture your cooking, which can be useful for sharing your culinary adventures on social media or with family.
Integrated apps: The Kitchen Hub comes with a suite of applications designed for the kitchen. These can include recipe apps, music and video streaming services and other smart home integrations.
Connectivity: Being a smart device, the Kitchen Hub connects to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This allows it to pull up recipes, stream content and interact with other smart devices in your home.
U+ Connect: This is GE Appliances’ smart platform that allows various devices to connect and communicate. For example, if you have a GE oven, the Kitchen Hub can interact with it, setting temperatures, timers and more.
Not looking to shell out nearly $1,200 for this type of tech? Consider an Alexa. While not as advanced as the Kitchen Hub, it is still a solid virtual assistant option for the kitchen.
DAKboard Wall Display v2 Plus
DAKboard is a digital wall calendar that integrates with various online calendar services to display your events, tasks, weather and other custom information. The DAKboard Wall Display v2 Plus is one of their products, designed to be a versatile, visually appealing display for personal and professional environments.
Screen: The Wall Display v2 Plus includes a high-resolution screen designed to make texts and images clear and easy to read from a distance.
Customization: DAKboard is known for its highly customizable displays. Users can choose different layouts, fonts and color themes to match their preferences or interior design.
Connectivity: The device connects to Wi-Fi to sync with various online services like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, Microsoft Outlook and others.
Photo display: Besides showing calendar and weather information, DAKboard devices can cycle through personal photos or artwork, making them a dynamic alternative to traditional picture frames.
Integration: DAKboard devices support integration with various third-party services for weather, to-do lists, news and more.
While the Dakboard Wall Display v2 Plus will run you close to $500, the Skylight Calendar is a solid replacement for around to $200 less.
Image Source: Samsung
Samsung AirDresser Grand
The Samsung AirDresser is an in-home garment refreshing system, which uses air and steam to clean and deodorize clothing. It is part of a new category of home appliances intended to reduce the frequency of traditional washing and dry cleaning.
Jet air and air hangers: The system blasts air to loosen and remove dust from inside and outside your clothes.
Steam cleaning: It uses steam to sanitize clothing, removing bacteria, viruses and allergens.
Deodorization filter: The filter captures and reduces odors, leaving clothes smelling fresh.
Gentle drying: Clothes are dried at a low temperature to reduce the risk of shrinkage and heat damage.
Smart control: Integration with Samsung’s SmartThings ecosystem to monitor and control the device remotely through a smartphone app.
Self-cleaning: An internal system helps to maintain the device by removing scale and residue.
Wrinkle care: The AirDresser can smooth out wrinkles without the need for ironing.
Capacity and design: The AirDresser Grand offers a larger capacity to accommodate more items of clothing and potentially an updated design or premium finish.
Not nearly as fancy as the $1,100 AirDresser Grand, a handheld steamer, like the Conair Turbo EstremeSteam is a great option for quick sanitization and keeping clothes wrinkle-free with ease.
SimpliSafe Wireless Home Security System
SimpliSafe is a company that offers a variety of home security products and services, with an emphasis on ease of installation and use. Their systems are known for being wireless and user-friendly. These systems are typically marketed toward homeowners and renters looking for a quick, easy and effective DIY security solution.
DIY installation: SimpliSafe systems are designed for easy setup without the need for professional installation. The devices can be placed on shelves or adhered to walls without drilling.
Variety of packages: SimpliSafe provides different equipment packages to suit various home sizes and security needs. You can start with a basic set and expand with additional sensors and accessories as needed.
Components: A typical SimpliSafe kit includes a base station, which is the central hub of the system, wireless door and window sensors, motion detectors and a keypad. Additional components might include glass break sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and panic buttons.
No contract monitoring: SimpliSafe offers optional professional monitoring services on a month-to-month basis, without the need for long-term contracts. This professional monitoring can dispatch emergency services in case of a break-in, fire or other incidents.
Smartphone control: SimpliSafe has an app that allows you to arm and disarm your system, receive alerts and monitor your home from anywhere.
Integration: SimpliSafe systems can integrate with smart home devices and platforms, like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for voice control and other smart home automation.
SimpliCam: They offer an indoor camera called SimpliCam, which can be used to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. It comes with features like motion alerts and the ability to stream live video.
Design: SimpliSafe sensors and devices have a discreet and modern design to blend in with home decor.
Battery and cellular backup: The system is equipped with battery backup to keep your home secure during a power outage, and the professional monitoring service includes cellular backup to maintain communication with the monitoring center if the Wi-Fi goes down.
Environmental protection: SimpliSafe also offers sensors that detect water leaks and freezing temperatures to help prevent environmental damage in your home.
Privacy protection: Features like camera shutters allow customers to control their privacy.
While the Simplisafe wireless home security system is great, it does come at a price, of about $320. If you’re looking to spend a little less, don’t fret, Amazon is full of more affordable DIY wireless security systems.
Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker
The Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker is a product by Kohler, known for combining the functionality of a showerhead with the entertainment feature of a wireless speaker.
Showerhead: It’s designed to provide a full-coverage spray, offering a quality shower experience with good water pressure.
Removable wireless speaker: The center of the showerhead houses a wireless speaker that can be easily detached and used independently. The speaker connects to devices via Bluetooth to play music, podcasts or other audio streams.
Water-resistant: The speaker is designed to be water-resistant, which is essential for any electronic device used in a shower.
Rechargeable battery: The speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery. When fully charged, it supports several hours of playtime.
Magnetic docking: The speaker is held in place with magnets, which makes it simple to detach and reattach to the showerhead.
Harman Kardon sound: Some versions of the Moxie speaker are engineered with sound by Harman Kardon, delivering a high-quality audio experience.
Voice assistant compatibility: Depending on the model, the speaker can sometimes be compatible with voice assistants, which would allow you to control music and other functions with voice commands.
Multiple colors and finishes: The Moxie showerhead may come in a variety of colors and finishes to match different bathroom decors.
Installation: It’s designed to be easy to install, fitting onto a standard shower arm.
For those who enjoy listening to music or podcasts in the shower, the Moxie Showerhead and Wireless Speaker system brings convenience and a bit of luxury to the everyday routine. If you’re looking for the same luxury at a more affordable price, you’re in luck. There are plenty of showerhead speaker combos at all price points on Amazon.
Image Source: Kohler
Anthem Digital Shower Control
The Anthem Digital Shower Control is another Kohler product that provides a high level of personalization and precision for the showering experience. It is designed to provide a user-friendly interface to control various aspects of the shower.
Digital interface: The Anthem Control includes a minimalist display with easy-to-read buttons.
Customizable settings: Users can save their preferred shower settings, making it easy to start the shower with their personalized preferences at the touch of a button.
Multiple outlet controls: The system can control multiple water outlets, allowing users to switch between them or use them simultaneously for a luxurious shower experience.
Smart home integration: Advanced models feature integration with smart home systems, enabling control via voice commands or through smartphone apps.
Easy installation: Even though it is a sophisticated system, companies like Kohler design these controls to be as easy to install as possible, sometimes compatible with existing plumbing.
Safety features: Many digital showers include safety features like automatic shut-off after a certain period or if the water gets too hot, which can prevent scalding.
Energy saving: Some models offer features that help conserve water and energy, aligning with eco-friendly practices.
If you’re after the type of precision temperature control that only a digital display like the Anthem Digital Shower Control can provide, consider the much more streamlined and affordable BLTFAUCER Digital Display. While it doesn’t provide as much customization as the Anthem model, it will allow you to achieve and monitor the exact shower temperature you want.
Elements Hexagon Starter Kit
The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is a product by Nanoleaf, which is a company known for producing smart lighting solutions that are popular for their modular, geometric design and customizable lighting scenes. The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is part of Nanoleaf’s Elements line, which focuses on combining smart lighting technology with decor.
Hexagonal panels: These are the core of the product, designed to be attached to form patterns on your wall. They’re hexagon-shaped to allow for a variety of configurations.
Wood look: Unlike the original Nanoleaf light panels, which have a very futuristic look, the Elements line has a more natural wood-like appearance, allowing them to blend into home decor more seamlessly when turned off.
Customizable lighting: Users can customize the illumination of each panel to create scenes or set the ambiance. This can include warm to cool white light settings, designed to mimic natural elements like a fireplace or thunderstorm.
Interactive control: The lights can be controlled via an app, where users can select or design scenes, schedule on/off times and adjust the brightness. They can also respond to touch or sound.
Smart home integration: The kit is compatible with most smart home systems, allowing for voice control.
Rhythm feature: With the rhythm feature, the panels can synchronize with music in real time, creating dynamic light shows in response to the audio they detect.
Simple installation: The panels attach to the wall with adhesive strips, which are included in the starter kit, making for a relatively easy setup without needing to drill holes.
Expandability: The starter kit includes a certain number of panels but can be expanded by purchasing additional expansion packs at any time.
The Elements Hexagon Starter Kit is a great system for incorporating upscale and entirely unique lighting into a space. That said, there are also a ton of customizable hexagon lighting solutions on Amazon for a range of prices.
Smart home. Seamless tech. Smiling faces.
The rise of smart home technology stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for an enhanced quality of life. As we look to the future, the integration of these intelligent systems into our homes continues to evolve, bringing new levels of ease and enjoyment. These devices do more than just perform tasks — they create experiences, foster safe environments, and cultivate moments of joy and relaxation.
In a world where time is precious and personal happiness is paramount, the smart home is less about the gadgets and more about the freedom they afford us — the freedom to spend less time managing our homes and more time savoring the pleasures of life. As we embrace this era of connected living, we find that the true genius of smart home technology lies in its ability to fade into the background, creating a symphony of convenience.
Looking for your own place to add tech to? Whether you want to replicate the HGTV Smart Home 2023 or just add some DIY home automation, the future revolves around tech-forward homes. Check out our available apartments and houses for rent.
Many believe that the policies of their landlords will cover them. Some also believe that tenant’s insurance is simply a waste of time and money.
It should be noted that a landlord’s policy will cover things like appliances, structural problems, as well as pipes. However, their policy likely won’t cover your most valuable assets, which may include money, gold, jewelry, and electronics. Damage to such items won’t be covered even in a natural disaster, such as a flood, fire, or earthquake. Your belongings will also not be covered if they’re stolen or vandalized.
The costs of displacement will also typically not be covered by your landlord’s insurance policy, nor will they be held liable if someone is injured in your apartment.
As can be seen, tenant insurance companies have many benefits that many renters are not aware of. Here are the ways tenant insurance helps keep you and your valuables safe and more reasons why it’s important for renters.
What Is Tenant Insurance?
Tenant insurance is also referred to as renter’s insurance. It intends to provide tenants with financial security if their property is destroyed or severely damaged due to an insurable event.
Examples include vandalism, theft, flooding, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes.
What Does Tenant Insurance Cover?
Tenant insurance can be broken down into three distinct categories in terms of coverage. Each category provides its own set of protections against numerous perils.
Personal property coverage: covers the costs required to replace your personal belongings. Examples include home appliances, computer accessories, electronic gadgets, furniture, and jewelry.
Basic tenant insurance provides personal property coverage in the event of steam or water leakage or overflow. It’ll also provide coverage in the event of lightning, explosions, fire, aircraft damage, hail, and windstorms.
Personal liability coverage and medical expenses: you’re provided with personal liability coverage in the event that you accidentally damage or destroy something while at someone else’s home. Also, if someone accidentally slips and falls while at your apartment, their medical bills will be covered by your insurance, even if you’re deemed responsible. In sum, you’ll be protected, regardless of whether or not you’re the victim or the one responsible for the damage or injuries incurred.
Loss of use coverage: if your home is inhabitable for a prolonged period of time due to extensive water or fire damage, the costs required to stay at a hotel will be covered by your tenant insurance. However, loss of use coverage is temporary, meaning it should only be seen as a short-term solution.
Key Reasons to Have Tenant Insurance
You won’t be legally obligated to have tenant’s insurance in most rental situations, but it’s highly recommended. Some renters mistakenly assume that they will be completely covered under their landlord’s policy or too expensive.
In truth, it should be one of your top priorities while you’re looking for a new apartment. When looking for a tenant’s policy, consider the following to find one that’ll cover you in these situations.
Personal Property Coverage: under your landlord’s policy, only major appliances that came with the apartment will be covered along with the physical structure. As for tenant’s insurance, it’ll cover most, if not all, of your belongings, including clothes, furniture and electronics.
Personal Property Coverage While Traveling: if your belongings are stolen or damaged while you’re away, they’ll be covered. They’ll also be covered if you travel with them and they’re stolen or damaged.
Protection for damages that you cause to someone else’s property: if you damage someone else’s property with your car or accidentally start a fire in someone else’s apartment, you’ll be protected.
Liability Coverage: if you accidentally injure someone while they’re on your property or they injure themselves (i.e., slip and fall on your snowy driveway), then you’ll be protected. You won’t have to worry about paying for any legal and/or medical expenses that arise from injuries to others.
Additional Living Expenses Coverage: if your home is damaged in a flood or fire, then your insurance may cover food, lodging, and other expenses while you’re living in another temporary domicile.
Conclusion
It’s important to note that tenant insurance is usually not mandatory in most cases for those who wish to rent an apartment. However, landlords are legally obligated to obtain it from prospective tenants before an agreement is signed.
All tenant insurance policies are also not the same, so you may want to compare and contrast offers from different companies. The peace of mind and protection you’ll obtain from the ideal insurance package shouldn’t be taken for granted.
From the outside, the rows of tile-roof houses in a new community in Menifee don’t look much different from those in other subdivisions cropping up in this fast-growing city in Riverside County. But on the inside, these all-electric homes are revolutionary, offering a glimpse of the zero-emission future we should be hurtling toward to fight climate change and adapt to its effects.
All the houses in the Durango and Oak Shade at Shadow Mountain communities, two adjacent KB Home subdivisions I visited in May for an opening event, were built without natural gas hookups or appliances. Each of the 219 homes comes with rooftop solar panels, heat pumps for heating and cooling, induction cooktops and other energy-efficient electric appliances, and a smart electrical panel that manages energy use. In the garage is a battery storage system that can power the home during an outage and in the evenings when the cost of electricity from the grid is higher.
They’ll also soon be connected to a shared community battery storage facility the size of a shipping container that’s a backbone of a system known as a microgrid. It will allow residents to disconnect from the electrical grid during an outage, and use the backup power to keep their lights on for a few days.
I expected these homes to come with a premium price tag, given their futuristic amenities. But they start around $520,000, and a 2,900-square foot, four-bedroom, two-bath Spanish-style home recently sold for about $590,000. Buyers aren’t paying extra for technology that would otherwise cost $30,000, according to the homebuilder, because the project was subsidized by a $6.65 million U.S. Department of Energy grant.
The homes have other energy efficiency features such as spray foam insulation under the roof to help cool the attic and the living space below. The houses are essentially “like a Yeti cooler,” as one official with SunPower, the company that provided their solar and battery-storage systems, told me. That’s life changing in this corner of Riverside County where summer days often exceed 100 degrees and utility bills climb painfully high.
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After spending a few hours checking out the homes’ energy-smart features and listening to company and government officials talk up their climate-friendliness and resilience, I was almost envious. The people moving into these houses are living in a world that, for now, remains a distant reality for most Californians for whom a fossil fuel-free home is still very much a pipe dream. And it highlighted how much work there is yet to do by state officials to ensure all Californians start to benefit from home electrification as that need becomes increasingly obvious in a world altered by climate change.
Underscoring that feeling for me was a remark by a California Energy Commission official in attendance, who noted that new construction accounts for less than 1% of the state’s housing stock in any given year.
California has 14 million homes and builds only about 110,000 new housing units a year. So even if all new homes are built with at least one electric heat pump, as the Energy Commission expects, that would account for only about 8% of all homes by 2030, 14% by 2040, and 20% by 2050. That’s not anywhere near fast enough to slash climate-warming emissions, which means that most of this transition will have to happen by replacing appliances in existing homes.
For now, California remains heavily dependent on fossil fuel in daily life, especially the methane gas that powers the majority of home appliances. For most of us, the transition to zero-emission electric living will be far more complicated, messy and slow than buying a new home.
The furnaces, stoves, clothes dryers and water heaters in our homes and businesses may not seem like big polluters individually, but they all add up to a lot. Buildings are one of the biggest emissions sources in California, responsible for about 25% of its climate pollution. But California still lacks the kind of straightforward zero-emission targets for buildings that it has already adopted for other major pollution sources like electricity generation and new cars.
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Because home appliances like furnaces and water heaters can last 15 years or longer, scaling up action over the next few years is critical if we are to get on a path to zero out greenhouse gas emissions by midcentury and avert catastrophic levels of climate change.
A recent report by Rewiring America, an electrification-focused nonprofit organization, found that to meet those climate targets the U.S. has to dramatically increase the pace of replacing fossil-fueled appliances and cars over the next three years. That would mean purchasing about 14 million more electric heat pumps, water heaters, stoves, rooftop solar systems and electric vehicles above what’s expected.
While California has some laudable goals, including Gov. Gavin Newsom’s target of installing 6 million heat pumps by 2030, state officials acknowledge that much greater numbers will be needed to put California on track to achieving a carbon-neutral economy by 2045.
State air quality regulators plan to end the sale of new gas-fueled furnaces and water heaters by 2030, and the Inflation Reduction Act and its array of consumer rebate and incentive programs should help bring down the cost of replacing them with electric heat pump models. But state leaders need to establish clear and ambitious targets for home electrification, while pursuing creative solutions such as establishing a neighborhood decarbonization programto retrofit entire low-income communities with electric appliances and infrastructure at the same time.
There are reasons for optimism, including the home construction industry’s embrace of electric technology. Heat pumps are doing particularly well, now accounting for more than 50% of the market in new construction.
But I’ve also encountered troubling stories that make me really concerned about the slow and uneven pace of change. I’ve heard from homeowners struggling to turn their houses all-electric and their travails through a thicket of contractor resistance, government red tape and other obstacles. I’ve spoken to community leaders who fear that low-income tenants and other disadvantaged groups will end up shouldering most of the burdens of electrification, like higher utility bills and rent increases landlords are likely to impose to pay for electrical upgrades. I’ve covered legal setbacks and fossil fuel industry resistance operations that are hindering the transition to healthier, gas-free homes.
At my family’s 1950s-era tract house, I want to replace the gas water heater, furnace, dryer and stove with heat pump and induction models as soon as we can afford to. But I know that will be a long, expensive journey with no shortage of complications — and electrical work.
For now, our entry point is a $100 countertop induction cooktop we’ve started to use instead of our gas burners. It boils water faster and doesn’t pollute the air, but draws so much electricity that we can’t turn on other kitchen appliances at the same time or it overloads the circuit.
Whether we rent or own or have a new or historic home, everyone should be able to live in an efficient, non-polluting and climate-ready dwelling even if it wasn’t purpose-built for an all-electric world like the new construction in Menifee. None of us should have to wait decades for that to be our reality too.
My mom has a sixth sense when it comes to bargain hunting. Where I’m thrilled to get 25 percent off and free shipping, she’s finding deals of 70 percent off and getting inside scoop from the salespeople, who probably have her on speed dial should a ginormous everything-must-go-or-we-torch-it clearance sale come along.
Okay, so I’m exaggerating, but not by much. The point, however, is that the key to finding bargains is timing—off-season, end-of-season, new models bringing down prices on the old models. There’s a pattern and a perfect time to buy just about anything.
When possible, plan your purchases by using the following list to score the best deals and to keep more of your money in your high interest savings account:
House and Home
Real estate—March through August are active months for buying and selling, so a buyer looking for a deal will have better luck negotiating on an offer in autumn and winter.
Flooring—Carpet and flooring goes on sale near the end of the year due to slow sales, though discounts are possible throughout the year from independent retailers.
Furniture—January and July, when stores need to make room for new inventory.
Gas grill—Like air conditioners, the best time to buy is during winter months, when demand for outdoor grills is low.
Cookware—April and May (think graduation and wedding prime time) and October and November (holidays approaching).
Linens—January “white sales” and the end of each season (i.e. as spring approaches, winter-colored linens will go on sale). It’s common to see linens (in all colors, not just white!) on sale for up to 60 percent off retail.
Mattress—New mattresses arrive in stores in May, when you’ll find a good deal on the previous year’s models.
Vacuum cleaner—June, when new models hit the floors, and end of winter.
Hardware—Big sales occur around Father’s Day and between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Home appliances—New models arrive in September and October, when you’ll find good deals on last year’s models. Holiday weekends—Fourth of July, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Presidents Day—also are good bets for deals. If you’re willing to buy an appliance with a ding or a scratch, you can save hundreds.
Air conditioner—Winter months, when demand is low.
Flora
Flowers—Tulips are less expensive in February, peonies in May. Flowers are at their best when in season.
Shrubs, trees, etc.—Autumn is a good time to buy bulbs (store them according to directions on the packaging) and trees and shrubs (nurseries are trying to clear out inventory).
Recreation
Outdoor (general)—Swings, beach and pool toys, swimming gear, and other outdoor items go on sale in August, when retailers are trying to make room for fall and winter items.
Outdoor gear (bicycles, for example)—February and March, when new models replace last year’s models.
Boat—Boat shows, held from January through March, generally offer the best prices.
Gym membership—Membership sales soar in January as everyone resolves to lose weight, but lag in spring and summer. You’ll find lower fees and waived enrollment fees to lure you to their treadmills.
Movie tickets—Matinees are an established way to spend less at the theater (as is smuggling in your own M&Ms, not that I’d condone such behavior or ever do so myself…). A.M. Cinema (AMC Theaters) sells discounted tickets before noon from Friday to Sunday and on holidays.
Broadway tickets—Find bargains hours before the show, or try the well-known TKTS booth in Times Square.
Electronics
Blu-ray player—Black Friday sales and after-Christmas sales offer some of the best deals.
TV—Sales can be found throughout the year. Times to note include Black Friday, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, right after New Year’s Day, before the Super Bowl, and in May and June. New models hit stores in August and September, when you’ll find sales on new models and discounts on the previous year models.
Cell phone—New customers get the best deals. For new phones, wait six months if you can. Search online for coupon codes, as well.
Digital camera—The Consumer Electronics Show and Photo Marketing Association convention mean new models will arrive in stores. Shop in January and February for deals on last year’s models.
Computer—Back-to-school season yields a few sales, but the best deals can be found when a technology is outdated and retailers want to get rid of the older models. Look for a few extras (free shipping, bundled accessories, etc.) around the holidays.
Tip: In general, you’ll find a good deal when an electronic item is outdated. Wait until after technology shows like MacWorld and the International Consumer Electronics Show to see if your iWhatever will be discounted to make way for the next big thing.
Auto
New car—New models roll into the lot in fall, so shop in September for last year’s model. Shop on a weekday at the end of the month to get the undivided attention of a salesperson trying to make their monthly quota.
Used car—Dealers increase their inventory in April to start the spring selling season. You’ll find a good selection and willing negotiators.
Recreational vehicle—Dealers sometimes offer specials in winter, but generally buying an RV works like buying a car (see new cars).
Gasoline—Fuel up on a weekday, early in the morning if gas prices are rising or in the evening if gas prices are going down (prices are usually changed between 10 a.m. and noon).
Oil change—Look for early bird specials in your area.
Tires and auto parts—During April (National Car Care Month) and October (Fall Car Care Month), you are likely to find buy-three-get-one-free deals on tires, free oil changes, and other checkups.
Car wash—Early birds (before 8 or 9 a.m.) can often find deals at full-service car washes.
Travel
Airline tickets—For domestic nonholiday travel, look for the lowest fares 21 days from your departure. Fares are updated at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. on weekdays, and airlines file one update on Saturday and Sunday. Lowest fares are filed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and occasionally on Saturdays. Wednesday is generally the cheapest day to fly and Sunday the most expensive. (Exception: the Wednesday before Thanksgiving—the busiest travel day of the year.) For holiday travel, start looking in September to get a good price. Fares can change quickly, and much depends on the carrier and the market.
Travel (general)—The off-season or shoulder-season for your destination will offer the most savings on lodging, recreation, transportation, etc.
Food
Groceries (supermarket)—On Sunday evenings, you’ll save money through store sales (typically run Wednesday through Thursday), and by shopping in the evening, you can save even more on items that must be sold by day’s end. If you clip coupons from the Sunday newspaper, you’ll enjoy additional savings.
Coupons—While coupons are available throughout the year, the most coupons appear in the Sunday paper during November and December. The best deals on turkeys can be found two weeks before Thanksgiving to Christmas. In spring, you’ll find coupons on seasonal produce, ham, and frozen food (apparently March is National Frozen Food Month—who knew?). Summer coupons offer discounts on grilling items and ice cream. Autumn brings coupons on soup and other canned items.
Groceries (farmers market)—Vendors often lower prices near closing to avoid having to pack up perishables and take them back to the farm.
Champagne—With steep competition to be your New Year’s Eve bubbly, Champagne houses drop prices during the holidays.
Clothing and Accessories
Clothing (general)—Got your heart set on something in particular? Shop on a Thursday evening six to eight weeks after the item arrived in the store. By Thursday, the weekend sales have started and the selection will still be good. Season-end clearance sales also offer up savings.
Baby clothes—Shop during your pregnancy for end-of-season clearance items. If it’s springtime and you are due in winter, look for winter closeout sales now for infant clothing.
Jewelry—Avoid the holidays, when you are most likely to pay full price.
Weddings
Wedding (general)—The off-season can mean big discounts. If you live in a cooler climate, you’ll find savings during the winter months. Hotter climates mean likely deals in summer months.
Wedding dresses—After Thanksgiving and before Christmas. Boutiques are stocked with gowns for Christmas engagements, but it’s a slow sales period.
Other
Toys—October and November offer good bargains as retailers gear up for the holiday season.
Wrapping paper—January, of course!
I might not ever be as good as my mom at bargain hunting, but knowing when to shop might make me almost as good. If you’re one to make resolutions every new year, resolve to save money and correcting your small errors by including a check on your free credit report to make a huge difference in your purchases in 2010 by timing your purchases.
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to follow Get Rich Slowly on Facebook and Twitter.
Building projects are facing longer timelines due to a shortage of supplies such as appliances, flooring materials, hardware and lumber, and builders are finding some clever ways to pass the associated costs onto home buyers.
Builders have reported difficulty in securing appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines for new homes due to supply chain disruptions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, and prices are rising because of that, BUILDER reported.
In a survey by Meyers Research in July, almost half of all builders said they faced disruptions to their supply lines, and 80% of 300 division presidents in a survey in August said those challenges are likely to impact their sales plans in 2021.
“When flooring is delayed, we have to rework our schedules to allow for other things to progress, or we have to put the home on hold and wait for the material or reselect something that is available at the time,” Jon McReynolds, Garman Homes division president in Raleigh, N.C., told BUILDER.
Meanwhile, the increase in the cost of lumber has added approximately $16,000 to the cost of building a single-family home since April, the National Association of Home Builders says. In response to this McReynolds said Garman has adjusted the price of its new homes at the community level, while lot premiums now also cost more.
Some builders have resorted to using the escalation clauses in their contracts, so that customers will have to pay the additional costs if prices rise by a certain percentage.
Other builders have smarter ideas to offset the rising costs for buyers. For example Meritage Homes is offering to scale back on upgrades for new homes, so buyers can choose from just a few product collections at the same price point, instead of paying more. It used to offer 56 different dishwashers for instance, but now only provides a choice of six models that are well-stocked.
“We’re going to have a lot more success in being able to procure those dishwashers, for example, than we are some of [Whirlpool’s] slower-selling, more expensive models,” Steve Hilton, chairman and CEO of Meritage Homes, told BUILDER. “That goes on and on for every component of the house, whether it’s door locks, plumbing, fixtures, carpeting, or tile.”
Mike Wheatley is the senior editor at Realty Biz News. Got a real estate related news article you wish to share, contact Mike at [email protected]