Yes, you probably do. Why it matters: Unless your home can maintain a relative humidity (RH) of below 60% (55% would be better), you need to dehumidify. 🖼️ The big picture: High humidity leads to poor indoor air quality and damages building materials. Dust mites do not thrive below 55%RH — and dust mites are one […]
🥵 Do you need a dehumidifier? Read More »
Now that we’re in peak growth season for lawns, you can identify the areas that need some TLC. 🔬 Zoom in: In areas of your yard where the soil has gotten compacted, aerating the lawn is an easy remedy. NOTE: You can de-thatch and aerate the whole lawn earlier in the season for maximum growth. For
🔱 Poke some holes and watch it grow Read More »
This $10 gadget can help your indoor plants thrive. Why it matters: Plants need the right amount of water and light and the correct soil pH. ⚙️ How it works: Stick the probe 2-4 inches into the soil. To know when it’s time to water. To see if it’s getting enough light. To find out if
🪴 Turning your brown thumb green Read More »
My wife asked me this morning about the timing for doing laundry. She saw a notice from our electric provider about possible grid issues during this heat advisory. Why it matters: We will see the grid pushed to it’s capacity more than once this summer. ⚙️ How it works: Since I have solar and a battery,
😎 Going off grid during peak hours Read More »
With a big assist from my Traeger grill, our Father’s Day celebration — with 6 dads this year — was a smokin’ success! 🥩 Why it matters: A delicious meal opens the door for sweet connection with your loved ones. ⚙️ How it works: Traeger combines the ability to smoke or BBQ, monitor your cook from
🥩 Manning the grill this Father’s Day Read More »
If it’s been a minute since you’ve done a deep clean of your dishwasher, get ready! Why it matters: The gunk that sticks to the filter and strainer can make your dishwasher less effective and can produce bad odors. 🥊 The bottom line: 10 minutes a month of extra care can extend the life of your
🤢 The monster in the machine Read More »
The big box home improvement stores will be busy this Father’s Day/3-day weekend with the DIY crowd. Why it matters: If that home project you’re planning brings you joy, then go for it! But if your main goal is saving money, consider this: 🤔 Hiring a pro could be a better use of your resources. Unless
I relate to this question as both a homeowner and a contractor. Why it matters: Your local permitting office can seem more like a toll booth than a helpful partner in your construction project. It would take an hour long podcast to unpack that statement! 🔭 Zoom out: Building permits are supposed to protect consumers by
🤷♂️ To permit or not to permit? Read More »
I woke up to find all of my windows covered in condensation. Why it matters: Condensation can damage building materials. Knowing when it will occur can inform how we manage the issue. 🤓 Nerd alert! The good news is I won’t make you do any math. 🖼️ The big picture: Water condenses on a surfaces when that
💦 Waking up to wet windows Read More »
As temperatures rise, staying comfortable in our homes is more challenging. Why it matters: Comfort is important for productive days and restful nights. The number of design flaws in our homes and mechanical systems affect the level of difficulty for staying comfortable. ⚙️ How it works: 6 factors affect comfort: Metabolic rate —> Varies among individuals
🥵 It’s getting hot in here, so take off … Read More »
