Consumers Digest - Major Home Appliances Knowledge Base

Major Home Appliances Knowledge Base

What are the most efficient ways to use major home appliances and how can you improve their efficiency? Please include at least 5 answers.... I will thank you very much! :)

looking to get into the air conditioning, refrigeration systems and controls and major home appliances field? does anyone know how this field pays once out of school? (9 months course in Apex NYC)

Anyone know where some good sales/prices are for some major home appliances...sales or packages?

How many websites, retailers and major outlets are selling home appliances in the US?

In today's market, is it reasonable for the seller to include major appliances with the sale of the home? washer/dryer, fridge, microwave...is this too much to ask? What is your experience with this?

is there a website that i can use to find the date a major home appliance was built?

I have many stainless steel appliances that need major cleaning. What is the best cleaner or home remedy? All of my small appliances are stainless steel and they all have spots on them. I have tried a variety of cleaners but nothing seems to work. What is the best cleaner or home remedy that will work for this? I would like for them to look like new. Thanks!

How home appliances affect kitchen design? Home appliances, as large part and companion of kitchen, often affect Kitchen design as many built-in home appliances are fitted into Kitchen body. What are major home appliances that included most in Kitchen body? Modified home appliances which have combination of function recently compared to former home appliances kept surfacing in the market. For example, microwave-oven as combination of microwave and oven. People no longer thrive to complexity, they want it easy and fast. As simple as possible, as beautiful and elegant. Home appliances today are a form of modern art. Do customers prefer a home appliances that has almost similar function one over another? If so, what are they? How this affect Kitchen design today?

warranty for home appliances? Hello all, Recently we had to service our refrigerator (only 4 yrs old) due to frost buildup and it cost us a lot for a small job. Do others of you insure or purchase warranty for your major home appliances (fridge, washer, stove, built-in micro, etc.) and if so is there a reliable service company? Please let me have your feedback! Our appliances are between 4-8 years old. Thanks!! Thanks for responding. Now, one of you says that Sears warranty is good. Is this a warranty on all your appliances? Do the appliances have to be bought from Sears? And do you have to get this warranty when you buy the appliance? In my case, the appliances are mostly whirpool and GE brands. And i did not purchase any extended warranties. THANKS !!

Can you get a tax credit on Energy Efficient major appliances? We recently remodeled our home using all energy efficient appliances....washer/dryer, frig., range, dishwasher, etc: I thought I would be able to get a tax credit when filing our income tax BUT I don't find anything in the 1040 instructions on where to take the credit! I found a place for heating/cooling, roofing, but nothing for inside the home! Does anyone have any info on this? Thank you!

I have accepted an offer for my home that I have had on the market and the appraiser? has been here. Tomorrow the inspector. My home is maintained, major appliances are still under warranty and clean but I am wondering if they should nit-pick me about the roof being older but it doesn't leak can they put in a new offer ? I already am off my target price by about 5k . It is my first home sale, all my other real estate deals have been land. What other "surprises" are in store ?

What's the next major appliance to fail in expensive fashion in your home? Me = dishwasher

What is the title of that Walt Disney's cartoon where it's about society, home appliances? I'm searching that WD cartoon where it's about society, household, families presented in a funny, comparison way, without any major character. I saw it in my childhood, early 90's, but i think it was made way before. I can't find it, somebody knows? there is narrator and when talking about situations, stuff and we see that in different families.

I need Ideas of a new Improvement to an existing home appliance.? These is for my Intro to engr. class. please provide me with ideas of some Home appliances,i will appreciate it a lot. The report must include: purpose and major uses of the appliance. History of the appliance, when and who invented it. Improvements made over time. major differences between competinf brands. Desciption of the improvement you propose for the appliance.

What can I write off from my home improvements this year? My wife and I just bought a home less than a year ago and we added a couple of major appliances to the kitchen as well as re-painted the entire interior portion of the house. Do we get to write both of these improvements off?

Does unplugging appliances when going away really save energy? I have heard that you can save on your energy bill by unplugging such things as computers, TV's, & major appliances (no, not fridge or freezer!) if you are going to be away from home for awhile. Does anyone know if this is true, what kind of savings are we talking here? Also, would really like links to any sites that discuss such things. (Please don't just tell me to Google it, I know that much already.) Thanks!

Giving a presentation for an interview? I have to give a 10min presentation on a major home appliance (oven) for an interview. I know about appliances but not specifically about this brand. I'm really nervous and i'm not sure what I can do to stand out...any help/advice would be appreciated. This role is reporting to the Marketing manager - but you need to be technically inclined aswell.

Has anyone ever purchased a homeowners appliance insurance? I'm not talking about extended warranties on appliances but rather a company that sells insurance that covers every major appliances in the home such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, central air conditioning, etc regardless of the age of the appliance or home. If so can you please recommend a reputable company you've had a positive experience with?

Buying a new home appliance...? If you were buying a new major appliance for your home (washer/dryer, refrigerator, etc.), what large store/chain would you go to purchase it?

Concerning purchasing price when is the best time to buy an appliance for the home ? I'm in the process of replacing a major kitchen appliance and wondered when most retailers had their best "sale specials." Is before Christmas, after Christmas, or after New Year the best time to buy? This probably would best be answered by someone with experience in the retail appliance business or a purchaser for new homes or rental units.

Poll: When making a major purchase for your home, which store do u usually go to? When purchasing something like a big screen or large appliance, which store do u usually go to?

major appliances for minor $? Okay, so we are buying a new house. The one we are hoping for is completely "applianceless". We have a lot of stuff to do to the house so we don't want to spend all our cash on appliances. Got a good source for good stuff cheaper than going to Home Depot (or similar retail store)? I don't mind used stuff if it's in good condition. There is a scratch and dent place nearby, but I've never found very good deals there. We are in DFW TX area.

How much can I get off the asking price of a foreclosure home? I found a home I like... its bank owned and priced at 65K. The house has potential, but needs new windows, a new roof, new gutters, new flooring, and has molding on the inside. It is 1000sq feet, and 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. Besides the listed above, it needs appliances, and major cosmetics. At 65K, how much less should I offer for the place? I like it, but its not worth that price... and the realtor told me she had only received one offer on the place... a very low one... what should I offer for the place considering I can do most of the work with my father...?

I am looking to work (contract) in installing major appliances in Sonoma or Marin counties.? I would like to contract with new housing contractors (Tract homes)

Major appliance repair book? Anyone know of a good repair book for home appliances

I know the cost for electric has gone up but,? why after 9 years (no major changes in home/appliances) has my kilowatts more than doubled im saying compared to last year i am using on average about 400kws a month more. where it was 1848 last january its 2661 this january. is bge trying to kill us or what.

Why is my fluorescent light flickering every time I use my printer? Problems began when my GFCI outlet would not reset in my basement office. The next thing I know, every time I print with my laser printer, the fluorescent light overhead flickers, as though there is not enough power coming to my office. With the exception of a large LCD television upstairs, I have not added any major appliances to my home electrical systems.

Home Appliances Info Reqd? Can i get latest Refrigerator models information launched by major Refrigerator players in india Like LG / Samsung/Godrej/Whirlpool in year 2008 ????? Regards

I am in the process of closing on my home purchase I have all the money I need for that but afterwards I find? that I will be left with little to no money. Because the process went so quickly I will have to pay up my apartment lease before moving out that is 4 month which will cost over $4,000, I also will have no money to pay for moving costs and I do not have people who can or are willing to help. I will also need to purchase a few necessary major appliances for the home. I have very good/excellent 733-750 I do not have any credit cards or have any car payment. I am paying on my student loan I have very low payments. I need to know how and where I can obtain an unsecured personal loan I will not use my home for collateral . Can anyone give me the name of a reputable loan company. I tried borrowing money from family and friends but could only come up with a few hundred dollars everyone is feeling the financial pinch. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

If a major appliance breaks down in a rental (ie dishwasher) who is responsible to replace it? Renter or Owner The dishwasher in my friends rental is slowly breaking down. This dishwasher has been in the house since it was built in the 80s so it's breaking down because of age not because of misuse. She just moved into this place at the beginning of 2008 and she is the first renter this house as seen since the home owners bought a new house and moved out of this one.

Attention Inventors, can I ask a question....? I have an idea of improving on a major home appliance, who would I contact in a company if I wanted to present the idea directly to them, or what do you recommend that I do. Thank you.

The home inspector missed major electrical system problems. Do I have any recourse? I had my home inspected prior to buying it. The inspector said only that one outlet had never been hooked up...nothing else about electrical. Lights and outlets began going out almost right after I moved in. Now 4 or 5 licensed electricians have looked at it and estimates range from $2000-$5000. Seems I have major wiring problems and the house is a "hazard" and "not a livable home" (I`m sticking to just a few outlets and won`t buy any new appliances). Do I have any recourse? I would very much prefer not to get embroiled in a lawsuit, and I don`t need the whole bill covered, just enough to make me feel like I wasn`t incredibly ripped off by a sub-par inspector. The inspector is affiliated with a national chain, but claims to be an independent contractor. He seems very defensive, but not at all contrite...or even sympathetic. Any advice is welcome.

Have you ever bought a major appliance on Craig's List? My husband and I are looking for an inexpensive washer and dryer. Have you ever bought a washer or dryer on Craig's List? I'm afraid I'll take it home and find out something is wrong with it! Then I'm stuck.

Are you aware of your energy consumption patterns? (for UAE nationals only)? This is for our class project. Please answer the following questions. 1. Which of the following major home appliances consume the most energy? (Check one) □Light □Air conditioner □Computer/laptop □Television □Refrigerator □Washing machine □Other. Please specify _______________ 2. Which of the following minor home appliances consume the most energy? (Check one) □Mobile charger □Radio □Hair blow dryer / flat iron □Iron for clothes □Kitchen appliance (like rice cooker, microwave, etc.) □Other. Please specify: _________________ 3. In a day, how many hours… ...is your television open? (Check one) □0-5 hours □6-8 hours □9-12 hours □13-24 hours …is your air conditioner open? (Check one) □0-12 hours □13-24 hours …is your computer open? (Check one) □0-2 hours □3-6 hours □7-12 hours □13-24 hours …are your lights open? (Check one) □0-7 hours □8-12 hours □13-18 hours □19-24 hours 4. What do you do when you’re done using your computer, tv, or radio? (Check one) □Plug them off □Just switch their power off □Leave them open 5. Do you turn off lights that are not in use? (Check one) □Always or most of the time □Sometimes □Never 6. Do you replace too worn out appliances with new ones? (Check one) □Always or most of the time □Sometimes □Never 7. Do you prefer environment-friendly appliances? □Yes □No □It depends on the appliance 8. Are you aware of global warming? □Yes □No 9. Are you concerned about the environment? □Yes □No 10. Do you think your energy consumption patterns are healthy to the environment? □Yes □No □Somewhat Please write a brief reason why you chose that answer in 10. The Brain, thank you so much!!!

Are you aware of your energy consumption patterns? (for United Arab Emirates nationals only)? This is for our class project. Please answer the following questions. 1. Which of the following major home appliances consume the most energy? (Choose one) □Light □Air conditioner □Computer/laptop □Television □Refrigerator □Washing machine □Other. Please specify _______________ 2. Which of the following minor home appliances consume the most energy? (Check one) □Mobile charger □Radio □Hair blow dryer / flat iron □Iron for clothes □Kitchen appliance (like rice cooker, microwave, etc.) □Other. Please specify: _________________ 3. In a day, how many hours… ...is your television open? (Choose one) □0-5 hours □6-8 hours □9-12 hours □13-24 hours …is your air conditioner open? (Choose one) □0-12 hours □13-24 hours …is your computer open? (Choose one) □0-2 hours □3-6 hours □7-12 hours □13-24 hours …are your lights open? (Choose one) □0-7 hours □8-12 hours □13-18 hours □19-24 hours 4. What do you do when you’re done using your computer, tv, or radio? (Check one) □Plug them off □Just switch their power off □Leave them open 5. Do you turn off lights that are not in use? (Check one) □Always or most of the time □Sometimes □Never 6. Do you replace too worn out appliances with new ones? (Check one) □Always or most of the time □Sometimes □Never 7. Do you prefer environment-friendly appliances? □Yes □No □It depends on the appliance 8. Are you aware of global warming? □Yes □No 9. Are you concerned about the environment? □Yes □No 10. Do you think your energy consumption patterns are healthy to the environment? □Yes □No □Somewhat Please write a brief reason why you chose that answer in 10.

What career should I choose? I'm looking for a new job that utilizes my talents and skills. Talents: I'm really good at impersonating voices and I can sing I am a people person and get along with almost everyone I am an artist and quite creative I can do long-division in my head I can fix vacuum cleaners and I'm trained to sell major home appliances, home electronics, tractors and mowers, heating/air conditioning, windows, siting and doors. Skills: 7 years sales experience, 1 year in outside sales 1 year management Honest, motivated, easily trained, great with people, good with computers Bachelor's Degree in Business/Marketing

CAREER ADVICE : Whirlpool or Maruti..??? hi every1 i'm vikram singh i just finished my graduation with B.E in production/manufacturing engineering from PEC, chandigarh actually, i've been placed at Whirlpool and Maruti suzuki India ltd. ppl are saying that maruti is a gud company, but with no satisfactory reasoning i believe , maruti though a leading car manufacturer here in India, is still a local comapny, with no global presence..! on the other hand whirpool is a big american MNC Whirlpool Corporation is a Fortune 500 company and a global manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances,with annual sales of approximately $18 billion, more than 73,000 employees, and more than 70 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world but still ppl say, try 4 maruti try 4 maruti, just coz it is more popular over here.. the pay pakage and other benefits, that is being offerd to me is almost exactly the same in both companies. i am very confused right now, regarding which company to join, kindly guide..

Are you being more careful with your money due to this economy? Or are you spending as you normally would? Things I am curious about are - Are you spending no money or less this Christmas than you normally would? -Are you holding off on big purchases such as a home, car, or major appliance? - Are you looking for more affordable housing? Anything else...I am curious!! Also state where you are from ( country is adequate )

In 2004, my dad ordered a major appliance at Sears. It wasnt what he ordered when it came? I went with him during the initial purchase and the slick talking salesman at Sears sold him a stove and told him it would be exactly the same thing but in the color black. Well, dad was a little confused, and I figured I would just let him order whatever he wanted to keep his dignity and he purchased the stove with his Sears card. I was at work when the product arrived and was installed, and was appalled because it was not what he ordered. The salesman sent a black stove, but not what he ordered. Even dad knew it was not what he ordered. I called Sears to tell them and they told me the signatures and the order number were the same. I think the slick salesman was trying to sell something to an old man and got over on him. Dad landed in a nursing home. No one had POA, and no one was sure of where his money went or came. The stove didnt get paid for. Now sears wants someone to pay for it. I paid the money to bury dad. Do I pay for the stove or drop it. Is it my responsiblity?

best home owners warranty,plsss suggest.? wht is the best home owners warranty for all major household appliances like plasma tv,washer-dryer,refrigerator,air and heat conditioner,pls suggest some with no gimmicks attached.

what is an aprroximate cost to repair an electrical bus wire? my meter & can is part of a " gang meter " of three units. currently my major appliances are not working. i have partial electricity in my home, tv and some fixtures. i was told the electrical Co. is not responsible for this repair. would anyone happen to know what the cost of this electrical work is?

I am looking at buying a foreclosure home in Missouri City, TX should I offer less than the asking price.? The home has been on the market for a little under a month and there was a hurricane so the condition of the home has changed since it was placed on the market. The fence has been knocked down. The place needs new appliances and cosmetic upgrades but nothing too major. Should I offer less than the bank is asking. If so how much less? It is a 3br 2ba 2garage.

Does requesting a free credit report from the three agencies lower your score just because you asked for it? I think I've heard that credit inquires(for seeking loans,etc.) of the 3 credit bureaus results in lowering the score and is cumulative. The more inquires such as home buying, auto purchase, major appliance or personal loans the lower the score goes each time. If this is true, does it also apply to personal requests for the free annual credit report?

Is it proper etiquette to ask for gift card in lieu of gifts? I just purchased my 1st home a brand new condo and planning a house warming/open house. I have pretty much purchased everything (major appliances, TVs, etc.)but still need some things and out of funds now. I would prefer if someone wanted to buy me something that they give me a gift card instead of a gift. I don't like registry because often times people do not follow it any way. Is there a way to word this on the invitations? When people ask me I've been just telling them a gift card is appreciated but I really feel ackward. What do you think?

Portable Generator Power a House not connected to the grid? How Can i connect a 5000W portable gas generator to power an entire house??? The home has been wired but is not connected to the grid no braker box, no meter or anything all the rooms were wired together. No major appliances are going to be used just 5 15watt bulbs, a 21in TV, a radio, hair dryer, cell phone charger, and a laptop. What would be the safest way to power this house using a 5000w generator????

What can be done when a tenant takes appliancesfrom the landlords home? My father in law ownes a home he had been renting to these people, they ended up taking major appliances and we barely found out on the day they moved out! We were waiting on them to turn in the keys, but they never showed, so we entered the property and discovered that there were appliances missing, plus a big mess! I have had a hard time finding someone to help me with this issue. The police does not want to do a police report and the civil court does not want to tell me what forms I need, they say that they can not give "legal advice" someone please help! Thanks

Lost snake. in need of major help? My girlfriends ball python, mona (2ft long), has been missing for a few days. Through research I've come to realize my house is a paradise for lost snakes. The furnace heats the house with pipes run along virtually every wall leaving mona sized holes inbetween rooms. It is a 4 bedroom single story house with all rooms college students(clothes piles being the problem). Fortunately its Christmas and everyone is gone(girlfriend included) so I can turn the heat down. I'm sure I have the same standard level of panic as any other first time snake loser but it is sooo important to us to find our lovely mona. To really sum it up its 2am Christmas morning and I'm all alone in the coldest house in south Dakota looking for our baby. Any help would be awesome. If I could find her by the time my gf gets home it would be he ultimate Christmas present. That being said any quick suggestions for answers or if someone could get in touch with me via email (chrisbontje@gmail.com) would be more than appreciated. My current setup is as follows: No heater No laundry appliances No pilot lights on the stove Only major appliance on overnight is the fridge I set up folded electric blankets near the holes between rooms which are checked twice a night her tank is in a corner of the room with a garage heater aimed right at it. I have put a mouse in her tank also. This is going constantly. All appliances (even if turned off) are checked in the morning and evening. I'm not worried about her finding her way outside. I don't even want to go outside in this rapid city winter. Please contact me however you can. Even if its after next week.

Mandatory Home Audit under new climate bill or $2000 fine, your choice? Under the RESNET standards for a home audit, the following procedures will become law under the climate bill. 704.1.2.3 The Home Energy Survey Professional shall request copies of utility bills or written permission to obtain the energy use information from the utility company, and use them to produce an estimate of generalized end-uses (base, heating, and cooling). 704.1.2.5. Minimum Procedures for an In-Home Energy Survey: 704.1.2.5.1.1 R-values of wall/ceiling/floor insulation 704.1.2.5.1.2 Square footage and approximate age of home 704.1.2.5.1.3 Type of windows: glazing type(s) and frame material(s) 704.1.2.5.1.4 Type, model number, and location of heating/cooling system(s) 704.1.2.5.1.5 Type of ductwork, location and R-value of duct insulation, and any indications of previous duct sealing 704.1.2.5.1.6 Type of foundation is crawl, basement, or slab 704.1.2.5.1.7 Checklist of common air-leakage sites indicating likely opportunities for leakage reduction 704.1.2.5.1.8 Estimated age and efficiency of major appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines and dryers 704.1.2.5.1.9 Number and type of hardwired light fixtures and screw-in bulbs in portable lamps suitable for energy efficient re-lamping 704.1.2.5.1.10 Visual indications of condensation 704.1.2.5.1.11 Presence and location of exhaust fans, and determination of whether they are vented outdoors 704.1.2.5.1.12 Number and type of water fixtures (e.g. faucets, showerheads) 704.1.2.5.1.13 Presence and type(s) of combustion equipment; identification of visually identifiable evidence of flame rollout, blocked chimney, and corroded or missing vent connector. 4th Amendement anyone?

I have a home warranty which essentially repair insurance - is that cost tax deductible? I spent $400 on the yearly cost for my home warranty this year. Also, there was a $60 fee each time a technicians comes out to do a repair. Are these costs tax deductible? (For those who don't understand what a home warranty does, basically, it's repair insurance for items in my house. It covers all my major appliances, plumbing, electrical, water heaters, sump pump, etc. If any of those breaks, I can call a technician, and they will come out and fix it - only $60 each time they come out.) I don't think I'm only prepaying for repairs. I've already had $4,000 worth of air conditioning replacements, so I've more than received my money's worth. Thank you everyone for your answers. Too bad i can't claim the expense, but I'm grateful to have it! :)

Can I buy an affordable instrument to measure how much power (watts) an appliance is using in my home? Something I can buy from a major retailer online maybe? What are such devices called?

Why are mortgage lenders still lending to those who cannot afford to buy a home? I was a Realtor in Indiana a few years ago and saw first hand the foolish lending practices that have proven to be one of the causes of our financial demise. I am now a rental property owner and have a renter who is trying to buy a home. The renter has found it difficult to pay his meager $500 a month rent, how in the world is he going to pay the mortgage on a home (even an inexpensive one). The lenders do not educate these young buyers! They don't share with them that you should be prepared to replace your major appliances at age 10 years, the insurance and taxes gets added to your mortgage payment (higher monthly payment than they expect), you need to purchase equipment to maintain your home and your yard. The list goes on. We will not fix our financial mess until we get rid of the idiocy, lack of common sense and the need for immediate gratification. Thanks for listening.

how do i install a solar powered electricity supply system in my 5-bedroom home? the house is located in the tropics. It has 5 bedrooms, a kitchen, two-car garage, a sitting room, a dining room, three (3) bathrooms/toilets, one (1) guest toilet, and three (3) stores. There are seven (7) air conditioners, each rated at 1 horse power (1 hp). Other major electricity consuming appliances are:kettle, cooker, microwave oven, four (4) hot water storage heaters, six (6) television sets, and an extractor fan.

My electricity keeps shutting off in the evening for one second, and turns right back on. Any ideas why? It seems to do it when the a/c is on, but no other major appliances are running (other than fridge, some lights). I have not had any new appliances or equipment added recently, so I'm confused what the problem is all of a sudden? Happens 1-3 times per day, mostly at night when I'm home. It always turns immediately back on.

Anyone remember a door to door tax person? I was told that in Baltimore City during the sixties and early seventies a tax person would knock on your door, ask permission to enter your home and tax you on items like a television, major appliances such as a refrigerator, washing machine or range. I grew up in Baltimore City and never recall this happening. Does anyone from Baltimore City remember this kind of taxation? I'd like to know.

What is the best way to blend incomes and living expenses in a second marriage without hurting one another? Each has separate financial accounts from day 1 of marriage. One party has everything major in their name- ie. house, utilities,etc. the other does not. Each party pays their own bills they make. ie credit cards, medical insurance, car insurance, etc.. Each party has a child each to finish supporting (college-age and high school) Living expenses incurred to pay - house payment, all utilities, car payments, taxes, home insurance, home repairs, home appliance replacements, groceries, etc.... - So, Who should pay - Split 50/50 or delegate which is to pay which ? Thanks for the input! Best thing to do is to figure out how to combine the bills where each shares equal amounts monthly to pay. Therefore, no one person is accountable for all.

Upgrading electrical service panel from 100amps to 200amps? I am buying a home which has 200amp service however the home inspector stated that the "feed line" and meter are only 100amps. I have been told by an electrician that the meter can handle 200amps, however I am still concerned about the line from the meter to the service panel and the "feed line." Is there a way to tell if the meter and line can handle 200amps. The previous home owner seemed to have no problems running major appliances together. Any info would be great.

Info about appliance insurance/home warranties? I wanted to know general information about home warranties/applicance insurance. These basically cover the major systems and applicances in your home. I'm talking for a current unit owner, not for property sale. - Are the firms generally reputable and do what they say? - Who are the major players? I know of HMS and Sears Home Central. - What should I look at when shopping for a home warranty? -->Adam

It seems that My Husband has turned into an appliance assasin? How do I stop him from trying to help me? He has been layed off for about a week now and in that time he has destroyed or ruined three major appliances in my home. He says it happens when he is trying to help me with the house work. I am at work and he decides to vaccum and about ten minutes later the vaccum blows up or he wants to help with the laundry and the dryer fried itself while he was using it. I love him for trying to help but frankly it is getting expensive to have him help. Any suggestions here????? He is on a Job attached lay off which means that the company will call him back when it restarts in another month. This is a yearly thing in the industry that he is in.

Cost to have house checked for power surge? I'm hoping someone can give me a ballpark of what it would cost to have my home checked for power serges. It seems that every once in awhile the lights brighten, I have 220 amps and it is a small house. Nothing major running just tyoical appliances. Could it be caused by old appliances, which I have.

A great buy or a major headache? My husband and I are searching for a home to buy, and we are riding a roller coaster of emotions. We found the house we loved, but the contract fell through. We found another house that seems great, but I need some opinions. The pros: --Over 3000 square feet of space --Inground pool (tiled) --Could be purchased for under $130K --Quiet area --New plumbing,wiring, roof, appliances, A/C, heater, water softner, and sunk pump --Seller to pay for $5000 worth of cosmetic updates --Has been on the market for 156 days The cons: --Most of the inside will have to be remodeled--new floors, new paint, probably a few walls knocked down. --Will need new kitchen cabinets and countertops We are moving in June with one toddler and another child on the way in August, so we don't know quite what to do. It's at the lower end of our budget, leaving about $40K for updates. It's livable NOW, just not perfect. I've grown up with a pool, and since this one doesn't have a heater, the maintenance would be less of a shock. I know how much pool upkeep costs and how to do it. I have NEVER flipped a house, but our support system is immense. Both our parents are big into construction, so we would have some experience. My parents would even put in around $30K--my mom's always wanted to flip a house. On the other hand, we will have a young child and a newborn if it isn't completed by the end of August.

Any experiences with Modular homes? We have been looking into modular homes, the type that comes in as one piece, not 2 pieces or a double wide. (One company we are looking at is Wardcraft.) My question is, has anyone had any experieces with these type of homes? We have been in a new one and it's nice and all but my question is has anyone had any experience in living in one for more than 5-10 years? I was just wondering how energy efficient they are, if there are any problems that have developed after a period of years. I guess I am just wondering all these things because the type and size we are looking at would be as much a stick built home and I don't want to invest that much into a modular home and then in 20 years have major problems. I know stick built homes can also have problems too. We'd have a basement under it for sure. I know they do usually come with the cheapest appliances and carpet possible. Can anyone give me any other suggestions or experiences with them?