Home automation is all the rage these days. And for many homeowners, the entry point into home automation is a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat combines the advantages of older, programmable models with features made available by the Internet of Things (IoT). Have you been thinking of installing a smart thermostat? If so, welcome aboard. … Read more
You just had a visit from the heating and cooling technician. The news wasn’t great: your old furnace has given up for good and now needs replacing. Since winter won’t wait, you have to decide quickly. The most pressing question is size. How do you choose the right size furnace for your home? Some homeowners … Read more
You access the water you need to because of laundry, cook, and bath through the plumbing fixtures throughout your home. Every faucet, shower head, and spigot is considered a fixture. So now stop and think about it: every one of those fixtures affects your water bill to some degree. The question is by how much … Read more
Salt Lake City, Utah, secured a $39 million federal loan last year to fund a lead pipe replacement initiative. They weren’t alone. Under a federal program estimated to cost more than $50 billion, cities around the country have been chasing their own initiatives by applying for federal funding. It’s all part of an ambitious plan … Read more
Few travel inconveniences are as stressful as arriving at your destination only to realize your luggage didn’t make it. Lost or delayed bags can throw off your plans, cost you money, and even leave you without essentials for days. Fortunately, there are practical ways to reduce this risk. By making a few smart adjustments before … Read more
Munich is a city known for its contrasts: grand boulevards alongside quiet gardens, modern business districts beside centuries-old neighborhoods. Among these contrasts, Haidhausen stands out as one of the most distinctive areas. While located just across the river from the historic city center, it maintains a charm that feels closer to a Bavarian village than … Read more
There’s something oddly satisfying about a good road trip. The open highway, your favorite playlist, a cooler full of snacks, and no airport security in sight. But let’s be honest—what sounds carefree in your head can easily turn into a series of “why didn’t we think of that?” moments if you’re not properly prepared. Most … Read more
Boots and jeans have been part of men’s style for decades. The look goes back to hard work, clean lines, and tough materials. When done right, it feels timeless. But not every version holds up. Sloppy fits, bad cuts, or mismatched styles take something classic and turn it into a mess. Old-school style never relied … Read more
Tucked away beneath the buzz of beer gardens and Bavarian culture, Munich holds a surprisingly serene secret—its wellness scene. Whether you’re looking to recover from city adventures or just craving a luxurious pause, the city is packed with spa escapes and custom relaxation experiences that hit every mood: soothing, glamorous, or deeply restorative. Here’s everything … Read more
Leaving home for an extended period can be nerve-wracking. Thoughts about break-ins, maintenance issues, and unexpected disasters can make any trip stressful. Instead of worrying about what could go wrong, take proactive steps to protect your property and maintain peace of mind. Key Points: Secure doors, windows, and entry points. Use smart technology to monitor … Read more