April 7, 2021 Issue, Page 6 of 10

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6 April 7, 2021 Photo courtesy of Getty Images S FAMILY FEATURES sure to consider upgrades that make living easier, Do your research. If you’ll be making a pring means it’s time to start sprucing up like organization units that give you more space significant purchase such as a new vacuum your home and garden with a little TLC or upgrades that create additional living space. or grill, be sure to explore your options, read inside and out. If you’re unsure where to reviews and shop around for the best prices for begin, consider these tips: Keep budget in mind. Make a list of the pro- greater confidence in what you choose. jects you’d like to complete and estimate how Make function a priority. While aesthetic much each will cost. Use the list to determine Set yourself up for a more enjoyable spring with changes may boost value and please the eye, be what you can afford to complete now. more home and garden tips at eLivingtoday.com. Investing in quality products, properly maintaining and storing them all have an impact on how long they’ll stay in good working condition. As you tackle spring cleaning this year, take stock of your common home and garden equipment to determine what may need updating. Lawn Mower: If your mower needs a repair that exceeds its Hands-Free Spring Cleaning value, it’s time for a replace- For busy households, an all-in-one vacuum and mop robot like the Deebot ment. However, there may be N8+ is a perfect daily companion to help automate spring cleaning. It features other signs that an upgrade is high suction power (but low noise), TrueMapping technology to create an warranted. Rough operation, efÏcient cleaning path and the OZMO Mopping System to remove 99.26% of frequent breakdowns or other bacteria with dual vacuuming and mopping. Controllable with a smartphone indications of faulty performance app, it includes an Auto-Empty Station for months of hands- and maintenance- deserve a second look. Before you free cleaning. Learn more at ecovacs.com/us. buy new, remember to check your warranty to determine whether repairs might be covered. Enhance the Space Under Your Deck Optimize the space beneath an elevated deck by adding a drainage system Vacuum: Many homeowners such as Trex RainEscape. Designed to capture and divert water, this system discard their used vacuum protects a deck’s substructure from moisture damage while creating dry space when it stops picking up dirt usable for storage or an additional living area. Homeowners can safely add and debris as efÏciently as gas lines and wiring to accommodate grills, appliances, ceiling fans, lights and it did originally. Before you entertainment components to create an outdoor oasis. For more information, move on, be sure to check that visit TrexRainEscape.com. performance issues aren’t the result of clogged hoses or a filter than needs cleaning or replacing. A belt may also be worn or need adjusting. Other signs it may be time to replace the vacuum include damaged or frayed cords, motor issues like overheating or making strange noises. Grill: A grill may last anywhere from 5-15 years, depending on the quality of the materials and how it is maintained. However, it’s common to have to replace parts along the way. Signs you may need a new grill include a firebox (the main enclosure) with cracks, rust or holes and burners that distribute heat unevenly. Damaged grates can affect even grilling if they’re warped or if Photo courtesy of Getty Images they’re flaky or rusted, they can Perfect Your Pantry Get Ready to Grill contaminate food. If you’re not Cleaning out your pantry is an important step during spring cleaning as it A grill’s lifespan depends on many factors, including where and how it able to replace the grates, or any allows you to discard expired items and rethink the space. Start by reorgan- is stored and your climate. When it’s time to upgrade, you’ll have some other essential part, including izing and simplifying the area with ClosetMaid ventilated shelving like this decisions to make. The biggest is which heating style you prefer: gas, electric hoses and connectors for a gas Pantry Organizer. Built with the ShelfTrack system for a fully adjustable or charcoal. Other considerations include the overall size, number of burners grill, you’ll be better off replacing space along with close mesh to help prevent items from tipping over, it and grate quality. Also be sure to compare available features, such as side the unit. includes four 4-foot-by-16-inch shelves, a hang track and all necessary burners and igniters, which are fairly common, and upgrades like lighting hardware. Find more information at closetmaid.com. and fuel gauges.