Home Decor Ideas

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Best Home Internet: Reviews and Comparisons

Internet access is basically a necessity these days. About 87% of Americans use the internet; we rely on it for everything from online banking to keeping up with friends. If you’re looking for the best home internet to help you stay connected, look no further. We’ve done the research to bring you the top five home internet providers.

What makes the best home internet?

As a home internet customer, you’re probably looking for the best value, speed, and service for your money. To evaluate the best home internet plans, we took all these important factors into consideration.

• Price: We looked at the advertised monthly price of an internet plan with a minimum 100 Mbps download speed. These prices don’t include additional fees such as service or equipment.
• Packages: Service providers sell several different tiers of packages, with faster speeds costing more per month. Some providers offer a wider range of options than others, giving you more control over your monthly bill.
• Customer reviews: For unbiased customer ratings, we referred to the J.D. Power U.S. Internet Service Provider Satisfaction Study. This study awarded each service provider with a star rating between 1 and 5, taking five factors into consideration: performance and reliability, cost of service, billing, communication, and customer service.
• Speed: Internet speed and reliability are important to pay attention to, as not all home internet plans live up to their advertised speed. We used the PCMag Speed Test to judge each provider in this category, which uses a weighted scoring system to determine the fastest internet nationwide.

Best Home Internet

1. 1. 1. Verizon

At the top of the list, Verizon offers a combination of top-rated service and speed for a reasonable price with its Verizon Fios service. J.D. Power gives the provider a perfect 5-star overall rating, with top scores in each category. At $39.99 per month for 100 Mbps download speed, you’re getting a good value for your money. PCMag agrees; Verizon Fios tops our list of fastest internet service for home with a score of 186.1, 50% faster than the second runner-up.

The only area where Verizon falls short is its variety of packages. There are only three plans currently advertised on the provider’s website. However, at $79.99 per month for the top tier 940 Mbps plan, you’ll still be getting a great deal no matter which speed you choose.

2. 2. Optimum

If you’re looking for highly customizable wireless home internet, Optimum is a good provider to look at. They have an incredibly diverse package lineup with seven basic speeds to choose from, not counting add-on features like extra modems and smart routers. A 200 Mbps plan costs $44.99 per month, the best value on this list. But if you’re looking for something even cheaper, Optimum offers low-speed plans for as little as $24.95 per month. The reliability isn’t too bad, either; PCMag gives it second place with an index score of 111.1.

Optimum’s customer reviews are somewhat mixed. J.D. Power gives the provider 3 stars overall, although it should be noted that a score of 4 stars was awarded for customer service. Billing and communication got less than ideal ratings, each with 2 stars.

3. 3. Comcast

Third on the list is Comcast, an internet provider that is well-known for its Xfinity service. The price is a bit high, at $54.99 per month for a 100 Mbps plan. However, PCMag acknowledges good speeds with a score of 102.3.

In terms of customer feedback, J.D. Power puts Comcast in second place with an overall score of 3 stars. The area where customers feel the provider is lacking is in value for money; Comcast only gets a 2-star rating for cost of service.

4. 4. Cox

Cox offers a decent range of home internet plans, starting at $29.99 per month and going all the way up to $99.99 per month. For comparison, however, the provider’s 150 Mbps speed will set you back $59.99 per month, which isn’t a great value next to some of the other best home internet providers. Looking at speed, PCMag puts Cox in the middle of the lineup with a score of 90.4. This is a significant jump from 2018, when the provider’s score was just 71.3.

Customers give Cox an average 3-star rating according to J.D. Power. But if customer service is important to you, take note: the provider gets 4 stars in this category. Cox is also a great option if you’re looking for no-contract home internet, with options for prepaid internet plans.

5. 5. Spectrum

At $44.99 per month for a 100 Mbps plan, Spectrum gives its customers fairly good value for their money. Unfortunately, the reviews don’t quite agree, as Spectrum only receives a 2-star rating from J.D. Power. PCMag gives the provider a speed index score of 76.7. Still, there’s plenty to like about this provider. If you like the idea of getting WiFi on the go for free, home internet customers who choose Spectrum get access to more than half a million hotspots nationwide included with their plan.

These best home internet providers are known for their nationwide consistency in speed, price, and service. For a more accurate analysis, look for reviews of providers specific to your geographic area. 

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Window Types Guide

Windows are a fundamental part of your home. The window types you choose will determine how much light reaches the interior and what type of view you get from each room. Installing the wrong type of window can make your home feel poorly lit and closed off. Our window types guide will lay out the different window types and names and help you choose the best windows for your home.

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Your guide to window types

When choosing window types, there are a few key components to take into consideration. First is whether you want the window to open or remain sealed. If you do wish to let fresh air in through your windows, you’ll have to decide how you want them to open: by sliding, pushing, cranking, or on a hinge. Different window types also come in many shapes and sizes, depending on the size of the room and the location of the windows.

Window types overview 

There are many different window types, each with its own style, shape, and opening mechanism. Here are a few of the most common window types and names:

• Picture windows consist of one single pane that frames the outdoor view, creating a picture effect. These windows do not open and are also referred to as fixed windows.
• Double hung windows are a very common type of window, especially in older homes. This type of window has two panels, one on top of the other, each of which slides up and down. 
• Glider windows also slide to open. However, this type of window has a panel that slides sideways to open and close.
• Casement windows operate on a hinge, very similar to a door, and are often opened and closed using a hand crank.
• Awning windows are just like casement windows: they use a hinge to open. However, the hinge for these windows is located at the top of the panel.
• Bay windows are often very large in size and made up of one or more different window types. They extend outward past the exterior wall of the home, creating a three-dimensional effect.
• Transom windows are small windows added on to the top of a door or window to let in additional light. Some transom windows can be opened, but many are fixed windows.  

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Benefits of different window types

If you’re looking to let in plenty of light, a picture window is your best bet. Not only do these windows illuminate rooms beautifully, they also give a completely unobstructed view of the outdoors. However, a picture window isn’t your only option. Bay windows are also a great way to make a room feel bigger, and these window types have the added bonus of creating space for a cozy reading nook or bench. If you’re going with smaller windows, you can always simply add a transom window for more light.

Of course, one of the biggest factors to take into consideration is the design of the window. If you’re styling your home with a classic look or are remodeling a historic home, you’ll probably want to stick with double hung windows. However, if your home is more modern, picture windows and those with larger glass panes will give you more versatility. These window types even allow you to use geometry to your advantage and create corner windows if you so choose.

Drawbacks of different window types

One major drawback to picture windows is that they don’t open. While these windows are nice to look through, you won’t be able to enjoy fresh air from inside your home. A fix for this is to create a bay window instead, which can at least open partially on each side.

When choosing a window that opens and closes, be conscious of a few potential cons. Casement and awning windows that operate on a crank can be difficult to open, especially when the many moving parts age over time. Double hung windows and casement windows, meanwhile, can only be opened on one side at a time. 

One feature of windows that many homeowners forget is that they can also act as a secondary escape route in case of fire. Some types of windows, however, will be impossible to exit through. These include fixed windows, which can’t be opened at all, and awning windows, whose openings are typically too small to climb through.

Finally, you should think about how you plan to clean your windows. Fixed windows on higher floors will need professional cleaning from the outside as they can’t be safely reached. Take this cost into consideration when purchasing these window types.

Window reviews

Customer reviews are an important factor to consider when purchasing new windows. Look through the product listings on major retailers’ websites, such as Home Depot and Lowe’s, where you’ll find thousands of customer reviews. You can also check with independent ratings websites such as Consumer Reports, which has its own replacement window buying guide. For energy efficiency, check out the energy performance ratings from Energy.gov. Highly rated windows can help reduce your energy bill through better insulation.

By understanding the different window types and names, you’ll be in a better spot to choose windows that make your home appear brighter and help interior spaces feel larger.

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Once a month, you’ll be faced with an unpleasant surprise in your mailbox: the power bill! No matter how careful you are about turning off the lights or how much you budget for the bill, it can still catch you off guard. 

Besides being an unwelcome note from the electric or gas company, your bill can also give you a heads up about your HVAC system and what may be causing the continual price hikes. Read on to learn more about what your HVAC system is trying to tell you. 

Give Your HVAC Some Love 

If you notice that your power bill is slowly increasing every month when nothing else is changing in your home, it’s time to go straight to the source. HVAC systems need regular, annual maintenance to ensure that they are functioning properly. We can’t expect our HVAC systems to do all the work in maintaining comfortable temperatures without giving them anything back in return! Schedule a little TLC for your system to make sure it’s not overworking or burning out while trying to heat or cool your home. 

Think About Personal Enhancements 

We do all we can to look and feel our best, so we should be returning the favor to our HVAC systems. You can add a programmable thermostat that makes your system run more efficiently and on a better schedule to keep your home comfortable while saving your money. You could also consider new fans, compressors, or heat exchanges and your HVAC will thank you for the upgrades by running better. It’s a win-win for everyone. 

Consider Retirement 

Just like us, HVAC systems want to quit working the daily grind at some point. As they age, they slow down and have to work harder to maintain comfort in your home, causing an increase in your power bill. Instead of waiting until your HVAC system quits working, consider retiring it and replacing it with a new energy-efficient model. Another thing to consider is whether your systems uses HCFC-22, or freon, as a refrigerant. On January 1, 2020, freon will be banned from being used for AC units. So, speak with an HVAC specialist to see if the system uses freon and, if it does, you’ll need to upgrade to a new system. 

Make Individual Changes

If you’ve upgraded or replaced your HVAC system and notice that your power bill is still higher than normal, it’s time for some personal reflection. Maybe everyone in your home could be better about turning off the lights or unplugging unused electronics. Perhaps it’s time to lower the thermostat and start wearing layers in the winter instead of blasting the heat. During nicer weather, you can open the windows for a cooling breeze instead of running the AC.  We can’t blame our HVAC for raising the bills if we aren’t willing to do our part to bring the power bill down as well. 

What to Do Next 

If you’re feeling down about the rise of your power bill, just remember that your HVAC system might be crying out for help. Whether its asking for a little maintenance love, some performance upgrades, or needs to be upgraded to a new system, your HVAC will tell you what it needs through your power bill. 

Do you need an HVAC professional to help you understand your system’s needs? Reach out to a local professional to find out how to make your HVAC, your power bill, and your wallet happier. 

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These days, people depend on the internet as their connection to the world. You can get minute-by-minute news updates, check up on old friends, mindlessly scroll through social media feeds, or watch cute animal videos. But the freedom of the web comes at a cost — heavier in some states than others. 

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Your home should be a safe haven where you feel comfortable and protected. However, if you are a victim of a burglary, you will feel unsafe and violated that a stranger has set foot in your home and rummaged through your things.

The investigative team at KGW reached out to inmates serving time for burglary in the Oregon Department of Corrections and asked various questions about each burglary. From that information, we’ve created a helpful list of do’s and don’ts that will deter would-be burglars. 

Do: Ensure Your Home Is Completely Locked Up, Including Windows

Many burglars enter homes via unlocked doors or windows. Occasionally, they will kick in a door to gain entry, but most avoid breaking glass at the risk of cutting themselves.

Don’t: Hide Valuables in Obvious Places 

If you tend to hide your important items in your master bedroom, burglars know this trick and will head straight for that room. They also know to look in less obvious places, so you should try to be crafty about where you store these things. 

According to one inmate, they search the most random places, including: “Everywhere! From the stove and freezer to the fish tank and toilet tank, bookshelves and in boxes of cereal.” 

Do: Consider a Home Security System or Signs 

Having a home security system is indeed an effective deterrent because burglars are wary of setting off the alarm or potentially being caught on camera. Sometimes a sign in the yard can be enough to keep burglars at bay.

Don’t: Forget About Outdoor Lighting or Landscaping 

Some inmates mentioned that “large trees, bushes, or shrubs around the home…” provided an excellent cover for burglars to break in without being seen. Don’t let your yard become overgrown, and do make sure you have good lighting so that people can be seen if they try to slink around your home.

Do: Call in the Dog Squad 

Consider adding a large, loud dog to your family. These types of dogs are better at keeping intruders away because most burglars are prepared to work around smaller dogs. 

An inmate mentioned that “dogs are a deal-breaker for me. Big breeds, home protectors, are the best to keep people out.” 

Don’t: Ignore Your Neighbors 

Getting to know your neighbors helps you be more aware of who is in the neighborhood and makes intruders stand out as being out of place if they are casing the area. Additionally, letting your neighbors known when you are going to be out of town means they can also keep an eye on your home while you’re gone. They can even gather your mail or water your plants and you can return the favor when they go on vacation.

Do: Consider Leaving Lights or a Radio or TV On While You’re Out 

If it appears that someone is home, most burglars said they would “absolutely not” attempt to break in. You could also buy a programmable light switch timer that allows you to schedule when to turn your lights on so that you don’t have to remember every time you leave.

Don’t: Skimp on Additional Security Measures

Many burglars suggest “protecting your windows and doors” to prevent easy access through traditional entrances. This could include adding shatterproof glass, investing in window locks or sensors, or adding motion lights near the entrances.  It may feel like you’ll never need the additional security, but you’ll be glad you have it if there are burglary attempts in the neighborhood. 

Keep Your Home Safe 

No one wants to be a victim of a home invasion, so follow these simple do’s and don’ts, as told by burglars themselves, to help guard your property as best as you can. 

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Make sure your Trane HVAC can sit unobstructed. Image: John Royal/Shutterstock

Trane Heating & Cooling

Trane is a highly regarded brand in the heating and cooling industry. From design and assembly to testing and installation, Trane utilizes more than 100 years of expertise to deliver high-quality products that are built to last. Celebrated for reliability, Trane parts and systems can withstand intense temperatures and weather situations while keeping your home comfortable season after season.

Trane products

Trane offers a range of HVAC products, including air conditioners, furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, packaged systems, and even thermostats. Here are some of the most popular Trane AC units:

XV20i TruComfort Variable Speed 

Like other TruComfort models, this AC unit features precise, automatic temperature adjustments, with 750 stages of comfort. This Trane AC unit is ENERGY STAR® qualified and considered the company’s most energy-efficient model with up to 22 SEER.

XV18 TruComfort Variable Speed

This is the quietest Trane AC unit, as it delivers impressively discreet performance that measures 4 decibels below competitor’s minimum. Like the previous model, this one is energy efficient, with up to 18 SEER.

XR14

Considered the best value among Trane AC units, the XR14 combines efficiency and affordability, delivering a SEER score of 16 and rating as ENERGY STAR® certified.

Trane HVAC prices

The price of your Trane AC, heat pump or HVAC unit will depend on the type of unit you choose and the size of the unit. Here are estimated prices for certain Trane products, plus installation, and the estimated energy savings they can provide to your home.

Trane reviews, Ratings, and Customer Satisfaction

When it comes to customer satisfaction, Trane is one of the best in the industry. Owner satisfaction is measured by the number of customers who recommend a product or service to others. In 2019, Trane was one of just a few companies that received a rating of Excellent for owner satisfaction. Customers report high levels of satisfaction with Trane’s quality, long-lasting products, skilled installation professionals, and warranty options.

Why Choose Trane?

Trane is highly regarded for its reliable products and trained installation specialists. The company prides itself on handling the design, testing and production of all parts included in their systems. Each Trane HVAC product then goes through a rigorous testing period to ensure its durability even in extreme temperatures. Though the prices of Trane AC and heating systems may be slightly higher than other brands in the industry, the quality of workmanship makes Trane HVAC packages worth the cost.

Warranty

Additionally, Trane HVAC products stand out with regard to their impressive warranty options. All products include a Base Limited Warranty that covers the cost of defective parts for a range of 1-20 years, depending on the product. However, by simply registering your product within 60 days of purchase, the Base Limited Warranty is extended to the Registered Limited Warranty at no cost. The Registered Limited Warranty ranges from 5 years of coverage up to the lifetime of the product. For an additional cost, customers may purchase an Optional Extended Warranty that covers all parts and labor.

Who is Trane best for?

Whether you’re preparing for a long, hot summer and need a more energy-efficient upgrade, you’re moving into a new home and require a brand new system, or just require standalone Trane parts, Trane HVAC products are equipped to keep your home’s heating, cooling, and ventilation systems running well even in extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Trane HVAC unit cost?

The cost of installing a new Trane HVAC system can range from $1,500 to $15,000. The size and type of unit you require can depend on a variety of factors, including the climate and region where you live, the degree of insulation and existing ductwork in the home, the project difficulty and any special add-ons you may opt for.

How long do Trane HVAC units last?

Trane HVAC products are renowned for their longevity. Well-maintained units can last through season after season for up to 20 years.

Where can I buy a Trane HVAC system?

Trane parts and products are available at many local HVAC stores, and you can find local dealers easily using the Dealer Locator page on the Trane website. Simply enter your zip code, and you’ll be provided with a list of providers in your area.

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Marvin Windows started in 1912 as a family-owned and operated lumber company. Today they offer more than 150,000 made-to-order window and door styles, all of which are ENERGY STAR certified.

Marvin Window products and pricing

Marvin Windows products are made to order and can be customized to fit your home’s design. Here are a few of their most popular window styles. The following pricing is approximate for a standard 48” x 60” window. Actual prices can vary depending on the size, material and manufacturer promotions available at the time.

Signature Collection

Marvin’s most popular line, the Signature collection features all-wood windows designed for new construction. Windows in this collection, like the Signature Ultimate line, come in a variety of different types of wood and stain or paint options. They are available in a number of styles, including:

• Awning
• Casement
• Double-hung

The wood construction of these windows requires maintenance and care but works well in Craftsman or Traditional home styles.

Price range: $350 – $680

Essential Collection

Made with their proprietary Ultrex fiberglass material, Marvin’s strongest windows are designed to be long-lasting and maintenance-free. The series is one of the most affordable collections and perfect for a starter home that needs an upgrade to improve efficiency levels. It’s an affordable series because it’s limited to five hardware finishes, six exterior finishes and the standard obscure glass. The Essential Collection offers a wide number of window styles, including:

• Single-hung
• Glider
• Round top

Price range: $250 – $600

Elevate Collection

Marvin’s top-of-the-line window line, the Elevate Collection combines the durability of a fiberglass exterior with the warmth of a wood interior. The Ultrex fiberglass construction is 8 times stronger than vinyl and resists warping. Ultrex windows also have more glass surface than vinyl windows, which can make a huge difference in shaded or smaller homes that want to maximize natural light. 

Marvin Ultrex construction windows may be more expensive but would be ideal in areas with extreme weather changes (hot summers and cold winters). The fiberglass frame remains stable in extreme temperatures and expands at a similar rate to glass. Windows in the Elevate collection are available in styles like:

• Cottage
• Oriel
• Standard

Price range: $1200 – $1500

Marvin Windows reviews, ratings, customer satisfaction

Marvin Windows score well with customers and consumer research companies. They earned 3 out of 5 stars overall from J.D. Power’s 2018 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study with its highest rating (4/5 stars) in the Appearance and Design Features category.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives Marvin Windows their highest score of A+. The score is based on a scale of 13 factors like volume of complaints and how many complaints go unresolved.

Reasons why Marvin Windows is a great option

Marvin Windows are some of the highest quality windows on the market and the go-to manufacturer for wood windows. All styles are ENERGY STAR certified for the highest efficiency rating. Marvin is also one of the few companies that custom-makes their windows to customer specs in an unlimited number of sizes, shapes and styles.

The Marvin Limited Warranty is transferable and guarantees the exterior and glass of their windows for 20 years, hardware for 10 years and the interior construction for five years.

Frequently asked questions

How much do Marvin windows cost?

Marvin offers many series, shapes and sizes of windows, so prices will vary. Marvin is not known as a budget window manufacturer. They specialize in quality and custom windows at a mid to high price range, compared to other manufacturers.

What types of windows does Marvin sell?

Marvin specializes in wood windows but one of their most popular finishes is Ultrex — a fiberglass composite that the company developed themselves. It’s more durable than vinyl. They custom-build windows in nearly any size and shape and have a vast catalog of options.

Where can I buy Marvin windows?

Visit Marvin.com and enter your zip code to find a dealer near you.

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