Tag: Holidays

Microwave Maintenance Tips

Stick a Fork In It! Microwave Oven Maintenance

Posted on | by Clive Gillett

Microwave Maintenance TipsThanksgiving has passed, and Christmas is on its way. What could this mean except… LEFTOVERS! Seriously, who doesn’t love a good turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, potatoes, gravy, and cheese melt on rye?

Okay, okay, you might not include ALL of that, but chances are your microwave is getting a workout this holiday season. Don’t forget to give it a little TLC along with those workouts, so it can continue keeping your holiday food warm and satisfying.

Visit How Long Do Microwave Ovens Last: The Lifespan of a Microwave* for some tips and tricks to keep your microwave working as long as possible.

*America’s Preferred Home Warranty is not affiliated with and has not collaborated with MrAppliance.com in any capacity.

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Electrical Maintenance

Are You THAT Kind of Holiday People?

Posted on | by Clive Gillett

Electrical MaintenanceThere are two types of holiday people: Those who decorate, and those who DECORATE. Either way, lights are involved.

Our question to you is this: When was the last time you really inspected your home’s electrical? Better yet, when was the last time you had it professionally inspected?

Is it safe?

Use your holiday decorating as the perfect excuse to do that inspection. Check out this Home Electrical Safety Checklist* for an in-depth list covering what to look for, and when to call in the professionals.

And for the love of Pete: Don’t overload your sockets this holiday season!

Trust us—the light show isn’t worth burning down your home.

*America’s Preferred Home Warranty is not affiliated with and has not collaborated with Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical in any capacity.

String of Jack-o-Lantern lights w/ Title: Is Your Yard Safe for Trick or Treaters?

Keep Your Holidays ‘Safely’ Electrified

Posted on | by Clive Gillett

String of Jack-o-Lantern lights w/ Title: Is Your Yard Safe for Trick or Treaters?When do you start getting into the ‘holiday’ season? November 1 is commonly accepted, though Halloween enthusiasts might disagree. Regardless, there’s a common thread between all of them: Electrical decorations.

Who doesn’t want a giant inflatable jack-o-lantern/turkey/snowman in their yard? Besides the big stuff, well-lit walkways and candle alternatives are important for the safety of visitors; especially when dozens of children are likely to stop by.

Keep your family and loved ones safe this holiday season (plus save some change on the bills) with these tips in “Halloween Decorations – LED Halloween Lights & Safety”.*

Did you know America’s Preferred Home Warranty can help financially in the event of some electrical failures? Call 800.648.5006 or visit APHW.com for more information.

*America’s Preferred Home Warranty is not affiliated with and has not collaborated with ElectricityPlans.com in any capacity.

Holidays Checklist Part I

Handling the Holidays: Part I of III

Posted on | by Clive Gillett

Holidays Checklist Part IThe holidays are crazy. Whether you’re shopping for a family of fifteen or preparing meals for the block, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle of what-all needs to get done. So, what can you do about it? Organize!

We know, writing everything down to ‘check off’ is a chore you don’t exactly want to add to your list of things to do. So, here’s a pre-assembled list for you. Enjoy!

Nov. 18 – 24

  • Thanks-Getting – This week is largely focused on preparation for Thanksgiving, so your first task is to organize what foods you plan to prepare, create a shopping list, and get those foods.
  • Keep the Kids Happy – If you have ever had children attending your dinner before, you know they don’t typically sit quietly and eat the entire time the adults are chatting away. Organize an activity or two for when they ‘finish’ that can keep them occupied (at least until they come back for seconds).
  • Food Prep – Set up any foods that can be pre-made the day/night before, and organize your cooking schedule the day of to alternate between things that will take up space in/on your range and things that don’t require one, such as the salad or cranberry sauce.
  • Ask for Help – If folks start showing up early, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance! There is no rulebook anywhere that says you have to do it all yourself, so save yourself the stress of trying to prepare a meal and be a host at the same time, and just ask them to help out in the kitchen. They’ll probably be more than happy to oblige!

Nov. 25 – 30

  • Holiday Greeting Cards – Get cards and stamps (or even e-cards) out of the way early, to avoid a last-minute “Oops, I forgot Grandma!” situation. Write down a list of your family and friends so you don’t forget anyone.
  • Start Gift Shopping – Seriously, the earlier you start, the less stressful it is, and it helps you avoid an all-nighter. To save time and frustration, write down who you are buying presents for, and a specific list of items. This will also help you prevent overspending on impulse gifts. Shopping for an hour or so after work on weekdays/nights will get you in when the stores aren’t as crowded, too.

Check back soon for Parts II and III, and for other holiday ideas, check out our Pinterest page!