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Night before a 5k none to run 5k plan good time to run a 5k good time to run 5k it is never too late to it is never too late to be it s never too late to be active it s never too late to begin again it s never too late to learn it s never too late to mend en vogue never gonna get it
It's never too late to run your first 5K. Here's how
It's never too late to run your first 5K. Here's how
Whether you're a runner who's taken some time off or you consider yourself a total newbie, setting a goal to run your first 5K (aka 3.1 miles) is a great way to start the new year. Even though training for a 5K is not quite the same commitment as training for a longer race like a marathon, it still requires strategy and planning in order to pull it off safely.
Not quite ready to lace up those running shoes yet? Running has a ton of benefits that'll help convince you to start, if you're still on the fence. "Running will improve just about every part of your body, inside and out," says Tone & Sculpt trainer Melissa Kendter. "It keeps your heart healthy, regulates your blood pressure, improves cognitive function, boosts mood, manages weight, builds confidence and so much more."
Regardless of where you are in your race training, below, Kendter shares some of the top mistakes to avoid when running your first 5K and more tips on how to get started.
3 mistakes to avoid during 5K training
Starting too fast and too far
As excited as you may be to get started running your first 5K, you'll want to start your training sustainably and avoid running too fast or for too long at the beginning. "Your body has to get used to the new stresses of running and you need to give your body time to gradually get used to the new demands for long-term running success," says Kendter.
In order to ease into running your first 5K, try starting with shorter run/walk intervals. Over time, Kendter says, you can slowly increase how long you run and shorten your walks until you're able to build up to the full 5K distance. How long it will take you to increase your run time will depend on your starting fitness level and running experience, but in general, you will want to plan to train for at least four weeks before a 5K, and seven weeks if you're a total beginner, according to the training plans we consulted.
Neglecting your form
Kendter points out that running is a challenging sport, so don't forget to focus on your form. "Focus on running with relaxed shoulders and on taking short, light, quick steps, landing under your center of mass," she says.
Not cross-training
Running is a great way to exercise, but on its own, it won't tick off all the boxes you want to check when it comes to a well-rounded fitness routine. "Make sure to strength train as well -- your body loves variety -- and doing different types of exercise reduces the stress running places on your joints and spine," says Kendter.
Other modalities you might want to stack into your running routine are stretching, yoga, Pilates or other activities that help you build flexibility and strength. All of these can help round out your routine since they're not cardio-focused.
When you start training for a 5K, it's best to focus on your time spent running instead of pace.
Getty Images
How to train for a successful 5K
While the exact type of training schedule that you'll begin with depends on personal factors like your current fitness level and schedule, you can consult training plans like the ones below to get started. If you're unsure of your fitness level or what kind of program is right for you, talk to a certified trainer or running coach who can help make a plan that works for you.
"For someone who has never run, you just want to get on your feet and get comfortable with walking long distances and jogging. Don't focus on pace, rather focus on the time spent walking/jogging and increasing your endurance," says Kendter.
And if you're more active or have run in the past, your training schedule may look different or more advanced. "As someone who has run a bit or is very active, you can alternate running days, rest days and add in strength training where appropriate," suggests Kendter.
Free 5K training plans to try:
Mayo Clinic 7-week 5K Training Schedule for Beginners
Nike Run Club 5K Training Plan
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
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How to fight depression and anxiety during the coronavirus pandemic
How to fight depression and anxiety during the coronavirus pandemic
For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the
WHO
and
CDC
websites.
In a study from the Kaiser Family Foundation published April 21, close to have of the people polled said that their worries and stress about the coronaviruspandemic has negatively impacted their mental health. Even if you didn't already deal with anxiety and/or depression, the stress of living your day-to-day life during a pandemic is likely wearing on you now.
Haley Neidich, a licensed psychotherapist, tells CNET that it's completely normal to experience fear and anxiety right now. It is perfectly okay to feel whatever you are feeling during this time, but there are things you can do to calm your mind and ease stress.
"My biggest concern about the panic is the stress that it causes for each individual," Neidich says, noting that when panic occurs, events are canceled and shelves are cleared out of necessary items which only further increases stress. "Stress and panic begets stress and panic," she continues. "Stress weakens our immune systems, making us more susceptible to illness, which is the exact opposite of what we need right now."
If you're struggling with coronavirus anxiety, fear or feelings of helplessness, the tips below can help keep your spirits up. If you notice that stress is getting in the way of being able to work, take care of your family or do basic daily activities (like cook a meal or take a shower), you should seek professional help.
Read more: The best meditation app to help you destress
1. Limit the amount of information you consume
Limiting your time on social media is one of the best ways to keep coronavirus anxiety from spiraling.
Angela Lang/CNET
Neidich recommends setting a limit of 30 minutes for news and social media combined each day, as well as challenging yourself to take two full days each week with no news or social media.
Even if you don't go on your devices explicitly to check coronavirus news, during this time, you'll be bombarded -- so taking time off is an easy way to soothe anxiety. Setting Screen Time controls on iOS or Focus Mode controls on Android can help you restrict your overall screen time or the way you interact with certain apps.
2. Focus on the things you can control
Truthfully, there's not much you can do about what's happening around you. You can only take care of yourself, so that's what you should focus on, Neidich says. Follow the advice of the major health agencies monitoring and fighting coronavirus in the US -- the CDC and the WHO.
Wash your hands often (and sanitize them when you don't have soap and water)
Stay away from people who are sick
Cover your mouth when you cough and your nose when you sneeze (ideally with a tissue that you can throw away)
Avoid touching your face whenever possible
Leave the face masks for medical professionals, caretakers and people with compromised immune systems
Avoid nonessential travel (locally, domestically and internationally)
Keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and managing stress
"There is so much that we don't have control over in life and COVID-19 is no different," she says. "I invite people in this situation to focus on what they are able to control and to make sure they have a loved one or a counselor to confide in about their emotional experience."
3. Stay busy with other things
This is a classic tactic for keeping anxiety under control. While you should definitely honor your feelings (more on that in the next tip), try not to allow your thoughts to spiral out of control. Focus on your daily obligations and add in fun activities to your days to keep anxiety to a minimum, Neidich says. Here are a few examples of simple, distracting activities you can try:
Solve a puzzle or play a board game with your family
Draw, paint, knit or do something else creative
Try to bake a masterpiece dessert with ingredients you already have in your kitchen
Read your favorite novel or watch your favorite movie
Take a nap
Call someone you love and talk about things other than the coronavirus
4. Set aside time to worry
Writing down your thoughts about coronavirus can help you work through them.
Getty Images
Allow yourself time to work through your thoughts about coronavirus. If you ignore them, they'll continue to persist, Neidich says. She recommends journaling by hand on how you feel about COVID-19. Grab a piece of paper and a pen, set a timer and just allow the words to flow onto paper. You don't have to keep the paper when you're done -- throwing it out can be cathartic and make it feel like you're emptying your mind of worries.
Set a timer for 3 minutes for worry journaling, Neidich says. "You will find that you'll run out of worries before the timer is up. Once this is complete, shift your attention to self-care and keep your mind busy."
5. Vent to a friend who won't judge you
If you're more of a talker than a writer, Neidich says it can help to confide in a friend about how you're feeling. Talk to someone who won't judge you for the way you feel, but try to avoid talking to someone who will fuel your anxiety even further. The key, Neidich says, is choosing someone who understands how you feel but won't perpetuate the fear you see online.
You should also first ask whoever you speak to if it's okay to share your fears with them. Many of us are coping with the stress of what is going on and it's only fair to ask someone if they are willing and able to listen before dropping your stress on them.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
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How to fight depression and anxiety during the coronavirus pandemic
How to fight depression and anxiety during the coronavirus pandemic
For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the
WHO
and
CDC
websites.
In a study from the Kaiser Family Foundation published April 21, close to have of the people polled said that their worries and stress about the coronaviruspandemic has negatively impacted their mental health. Even if you didn't already deal with anxiety and/or depression, the stress of living your day-to-day life during a pandemic is likely wearing on you now.
Haley Neidich, a licensed psychotherapist, tells CNET that it's completely normal to experience fear and anxiety right now. It is perfectly okay to feel whatever you are feeling during this time, but there are things you can do to calm your mind and ease stress.
"My biggest concern about the panic is the stress that it causes for each individual," Neidich says, noting that when panic occurs, events are canceled and shelves are cleared out of necessary items which only further increases stress. "Stress and panic begets stress and panic," she continues. "Stress weakens our immune systems, making us more susceptible to illness, which is the exact opposite of what we need right now."
If you're struggling with coronavirus anxiety, fear or feelings of helplessness, the tips below can help keep your spirits up. If you notice that stress is getting in the way of being able to work, take care of your family or do basic daily activities (like cook a meal or take a shower), you should seek professional help.
Read more: The best meditation app to help you destress
1. Limit the amount of information you consume
Limiting your time on social media is one of the best ways to keep coronavirus anxiety from spiraling.
Angela Lang/CNET
Neidich recommends setting a limit of 30 minutes for news and social media combined each day, as well as challenging yourself to take two full days each week with no news or social media.
Even if you don't go on your devices explicitly to check coronavirus news, during this time, you'll be bombarded -- so taking time off is an easy way to soothe anxiety. Setting Screen Time controls on iOS or Focus Mode controls on Android can help you restrict your overall screen time or the way you interact with certain apps.
2. Focus on the things you can control
Truthfully, there's not much you can do about what's happening around you. You can only take care of yourself, so that's what you should focus on, Neidich says. Follow the advice of the major health agencies monitoring and fighting coronavirus in the US -- the CDC and the WHO.
Wash your hands often (and sanitize them when you don't have soap and water)
Stay away from people who are sick
Cover your mouth when you cough and your nose when you sneeze (ideally with a tissue that you can throw away)
Avoid touching your face whenever possible
Leave the face masks for medical professionals, caretakers and people with compromised immune systems
Avoid nonessential travel (locally, domestically and internationally)
Keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and managing stress
"There is so much that we don't have control over in life and COVID-19 is no different," she says. "I invite people in this situation to focus on what they are able to control and to make sure they have a loved one or a counselor to confide in about their emotional experience."
3. Stay busy with other things
This is a classic tactic for keeping anxiety under control. While you should definitely honor your feelings (more on that in the next tip), try not to allow your thoughts to spiral out of control. Focus on your daily obligations and add in fun activities to your days to keep anxiety to a minimum, Neidich says. Here are a few examples of simple, distracting activities you can try:
Solve a puzzle or play a board game with your family
Draw, paint, knit or do something else creative
Try to bake a masterpiece dessert with ingredients you already have in your kitchen
Read your favorite novel or watch your favorite movie
Take a nap
Call someone you love and talk about things other than the coronavirus
4. Set aside time to worry
Writing down your thoughts about coronavirus can help you work through them.
Getty Images
Allow yourself time to work through your thoughts about coronavirus. If you ignore them, they'll continue to persist, Neidich says. She recommends journaling by hand on how you feel about COVID-19. Grab a piece of paper and a pen, set a timer and just allow the words to flow onto paper. You don't have to keep the paper when you're done -- throwing it out can be cathartic and make it feel like you're emptying your mind of worries.
Set a timer for 3 minutes for worry journaling, Neidich says. "You will find that you'll run out of worries before the timer is up. Once this is complete, shift your attention to self-care and keep your mind busy."
5. Vent to a friend who won't judge you
If you're more of a talker than a writer, Neidich says it can help to confide in a friend about how you're feeling. Talk to someone who won't judge you for the way you feel, but try to avoid talking to someone who will fuel your anxiety even further. The key, Neidich says, is choosing someone who understands how you feel but won't perpetuate the fear you see online.
You should also first ask whoever you speak to if it's okay to share your fears with them. Many of us are coping with the stress of what is going on and it's only fair to ask someone if they are willing and able to listen before dropping your stress on them.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
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Home Equity Loan Rates for September 2022
Home Equity Loan Rates for September 2022
With record-breaking home appreciation seen throughout the pandemic, most homeowners have more equity in their homes now compared to two years ago. If you need access to funds for a renovation project, education expenses or even debt consolidation, tapping into your home's equity could provide you with a lower-rate financing option. A home equity loan, which lets you borrow money against the equity you've built in your home, provides you with a lump sum of cash at a fixed interest rate.
Home equity loans may be particularly appealing in the current economic climate. Mortgage rates overall have gone up more than 2% since the beginning of the year. Even though rates recently dipped as the Federal Reserve increased its benchmark interest rate for the fourth time this year in an attempt to combat rising inflation, home equity loans still tend to offer lower interest rates than other types of loans. That's a significant benefit for anyone looking for financing at a time when it's uncertain how much rates will fluctuate moving forward.
This type of financing may make sense if you own a home and have at least 15% to 20% of equity built up in your home. Unlike a home equity line of credit, or HELOC, you'll receive the sum of the loan upfront in one lump payment if you're approved.
A home equity loan is a lower interest rate financing option, but it's not without risk. When you secure a home equity loan, your home acts as collateral, which means you could lose your home if you're unable to repay what you borrowed. It's important to carefully consider whether a home equity loan is right for you before applying for financing.
Here's everything you should know about home equity loans, how they work, who they're best for and how they compare to other loan options.
What is a home equity loan?
A home equity loan offers you a lump sum of cash you borrow against the equity built in your house. Tapping into your home's equity means you are borrowing against the mortgage payments you've already made -- it won't replace your existing mortgage payment -- it's a new loan that you'll repay monthly, along with your existing home loan.
Most lenders require you to have 15% to 20% of equity in your home to secure a home equity loan. To figure out how much equity you have, subtract your remaining mortgage balance from the value of your home. For example, if you have a $500,000 mortgage and you owe $350,000 on it, you have $150,000 in equity. To figure out the percentage, divide this number ($150,000) by your home's value ($500,000) and you'll see you have 30% equity available in your home. Lenders will typically let you borrow around 80% to 85% of your home's equity for a home equity loan. So, in this case, you could borrow up to $120,000 to $127,500.
A standard repayment period for a home equity loan is between five to 30 years for a home equity loan. You make fixed-rate payments that never change, which means even if interest rates go up, your loan rate is locked in.
Current home equity loan rate trends
One of the benefits of home equity loans is that they typically have lower interest rates than personal loans or credit cards. Right now, borrowers with good credit and sufficient equity can secure home equity loans with interest rates as low as 3%, according to Bankrate, which is owned by the same parent company as CNET.
One potential downside of a home equity loan is that if your property value goes down for any reason, you could end up underwater on your loan. This happens when the balance of your loan becomes higher than the value of your home. That's what happened to millions of Americans during the 2008 financial crisis. Right now, there's less risk of your home's value decreasing below your home equity loan amount, though. Home prices have appreciated as much as 20% in some metro areas across the US over the last two years, and it seems unlikely that they will go down in a significant way anytime soon.
Pros of a home equity loan
Fixed-rate payments: Your monthly payment will never change even if interest rates rise.
One lump sum of cash: You receive the entire loan upfront in one disbursement.
Low interest rates: It has a lower interest rate than other types of personal loans or credit cards.
Tax deductible interest: If you use it for home renovations, you can deduct the interest from your taxes.
Cons of a home equity loan
Using your home as collateral: If you fail to make your payments or default on your loan, your lender can foreclose and take ownership of your house.
Can take longer to receive the funds: It can take more time to receive a home equity loan than a personal loan, for example.
Closing costs are expensive: Closing costs can range anywhere from 2% to 5% of the loan.
Your home's value could decrease after receiving your loan: Although home values are not expected to decrease significantly any time soon, if your home's value were to drop below your home equity loan amount, you would have what is known as negative equity. Negative equity means you owe more than your home is worth. So, if you were to sell your home, you likely would not receive enough money from a seller to pay off your loan balance.
Home equity loans vs. HELOC
Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit, or HELOCs, are similar, but have a few key distinctions. Both let you draw on your home's equity and require you to use your home as collateral to secure your loan. The two major differences between a home equity loan and a HELOC are the way you receive the money and how you pay it back.
A home equity loan gives you the money all at once as a lump sum, whereas a HELOC lets you take money out in installments over a long period of time, typically ten years. Home equity loans have fixed-rate payments that will never go up, but most HELOCs have variable interest rates that rise and fall with the economy and overall interest-rate trends.
A home equity loan is better if:
You want a fixed-rate payment: Your monthly payment will never change even if interest rates rise.
You want one lump sum of money: You receive the entire loan upfront with a home equity loan.
You know the exact amount of money you need: If you know the amount you need and don't expect it to change, a home equity loan likely makes more sense than a HELOC.
A HELOC is better if:
You need money over a long period of time: You can take the money as you need it and only pay interest on the amounts you withdraw, not the full loan amount, as is the case with a home equity loan.
You want a low introductory interest rate: Although HELOC rates may increase over time, they also typically offer lower introductory interest rates than home equity loans. So, you could save money on interest charges.
Home equity loans vs. cash-out refinances
A cash-out refinance is when you replace your existing mortgage with a new mortgage, typically to secure a lower interest rate and more favorable terms. Unlike a traditional refinance, though, you take out a new mortgage for the home's entire value -- not just the amount you owe on your mortgage. You then receive the equity you've already paid off in your home as a cash payout.
For example, if your home is worth $450,000 and you owe $250,000 on your loan, you would refinance for the entire $450,000, rather than the amount you owe on your mortgage. Your new cash-out refinance home loan would replace your existing mortgage, and then offer you a portion of the equity you built (in this case $200,000) as a cash payout.
Both a cash-out refi and a home equity loan will provide you with a lump sum of cash that you'll repay in fixed amounts over a specific time period, but they have some important differences. A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage payment. When you receive a lump sum of cash from a cash-out refi, it is added back onto the balance of your new mortgage, usually causing your monthly payment to increase. A home equity loan is different -- it does not replace your existing mortgage and instead adds an additional monthly payment to your expenses.
A home equity loan is better if:
You do not want to pay private mortgage insurance: Some cash-out refinances require PMI, which can add hundreds of dollars to your payments, but home equity loans do not.
You can't complete a refinance: With rates rising, it's possible that your mortgage rate is lower than current refinance rates. If that's the case, it likely won't make financial sense for you to refinance. Instead, you can use a home equity loan to only take out the money you need, rather than replacing your entire mortgage with a higher interest rate loan.
A cash-out refinance is better if:
Refinance rates are lower than your current mortgage rate: If you can secure a lower interest rate by refinancing, this could save you money in interest, while providing access to a lump sum of cash.
You only want one monthly payment: The amount you borrow gets added back to the balance of your mortgage so you only make one payment to your lender every month.
Less stringent eligibility requirements: If you don't have great credit or you have a high debt-to-income ratio, you may have an easier time qualifying for a cash-out refi compared to a home equity loan.
Lower interest rates: Cash-out refinances sometimes offer more favorable interest rates than home equity loans.
FAQs
What is a good home equity loan rate?
Right now, lenders are offering rates that start as low as around 3% for borrowers with good credit, but rates vary depending on your personal financial situation. A lender will base your interest rate on how much equity you have in your home, your credit score, income level and other aspects of your financial life such as your debt-to-income ratio, which is calculated by dividing your monthly debts by your gross monthly income.
How do I qualify for a home equity loan?
You are typically required to have at least 15% to 20% equity built up in your home to qualify for a home equity loan. You must also have enough income and a low-enough debt-to-income ratio to qualify -- lenders usually want to see a DTI of 43% or below. Lenders also like to see a minimum credit score of at least 620. Generally speaking, if your credit score is below 700 there is a possibility that a lender will deny you for a home equity loan. The better your credit, the better your chances of being approved for a loan with a low interest rate.
What can I use a home equity loan for?
Home equity loans can be used for anything you choose to spend the money on. Typical life expenses that people usually take out home equity loans to cover are expenditures like home renovations, higher education costs like tuition or to pay off high-interest debt like credit card debt. There's a bonus for home improvements: If you use a home equity loan for renovations, the interest is tax deductible.
You can also use a home equity loan in an emergency situation or for life events like weddings. But keep in mind that whatever you chose to use a loan for, taking out a large sum of money that accrues interest is an expensive choice you should always carefully consider – especially since you're using your home as collateral to secure the loan. If you can't pay it back, the lender could seize your home to repay your debt.
How do I apply for a home equity loan?
Applying for a home equity loan is similar to applying for a mortgage. You need to qualify with a lender or bank who is willing to lend you the money. First, the lender will first want to make sure you have at least 15% to 20% equity in your home. If you do, the lender will take into account your credit score (lenders usually like to see a minimum score of 620), your income and your current debt-to-income ratio to determine whether you qualify and what your interest rate will be. You should be prepared to have financial documents like pay stubs and W2s in order, as well as proof of ownership and proof of the appraised value of your home. It's important to interview multiple lenders to determine which lender can offer you the lowest rates and fees.
More mortgage tools and resources
You can use CNET's mortgage calculator to help you determine how much house you can afford. The CNET mortgage calculator factors in variables such as the size of your down payment, home price and interest rate to help you understand how much of a difference even a slight increase in rates can make in the amount of interest you'll pay over the lifetime of your loan.
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Save Hundreds by Setting Your Water Heater to This Exact Temperature
Save Hundreds by Setting Your Water Heater to This Exact Temperature
This story is part of Home Tips, CNET's collection of practical advice for getting the most out of your home, inside and out.
Not much beats a hot shower after a long, stressful day. But if you're like me, your enjoyment is always tempered by nagging thoughts about the cost of heating all that water. That concern isn't for nothing: Hot water heating can account for 14% to 18% of an average utility bill, the Department of Energy says.
You've probably already noticed that your utility bills have been more costly than usual this year, especially your gas and electric bills. According to the US Energy Information Administration, these energy prices are only going to increase more significantly throughout the summer. That means saving money will be a priority.
If you're looking to save money, considering your hot water heater (and hot water consumption) is a good place to start. Here's what to know. For more easy ways to cut costs, simply try turning off the lights and doing laundry the cost-efficient way. You could also consider buying a smart thermostat or other energy-saving smart devices.
Read also:Cut Back Your Shower Time to Save Money on Your Energy and Water Bills
The perfect temperature to set a hot water heater
If you're looking for a short answer, it's 120 degrees Fahrenheit (about 49 degrees Celsius). Many water heaters are set to 140 degrees F per factory specifications, but lowering the temperature can lead to energy savings of 4% to 22%, and up to $400, according to the Department of Energy. Even with the lower setting, you shouldn't have trouble getting your shower or dishwater hot enough.
And the default setting of 140 F (60 C)may be going away. Recent installation manuals for majorresidential water heater manufacturers actually call for a starting temperature of 120 F (49 C).
The lower temperature might have more to do with avoiding scalding than saving energy. Since 140 F can cause second- and third- degree burns in five seconds, lowering your water heater's temperature can protect you from both financial and physical pain.
Changing your hot water heater's thermostat should be a simple matter of turning a dial or entering a temperature. If you're unsure where your thermostat is located or how to read it, you can consult your owner's manual or talk to a licensed professional.
After adjusting your hot water heater, the Department of Energy recommends running a simple test, since the device's own reading can be inaccurate. Once you've made the change, open the hot water tap furthest from your hot water heater and measure the temperature with a thermometer. If it doesn't match your target temperature, go adjust the thermostat and try again in two hours.
What's the catch?
The Department of Energy lists a few further considerations if you're shifting your water heater temperature.
Some dishwashers need water between 130 F and 140 F to operate optimally. So watch your dishwasher's performance after you shift the temperature. If your dishes aren't getting as clean, you may need to adjust it back.
There's also a small risk of water at 120 F growing Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaire's Disease. The Department of Energy calls it a small risk, but if you or someone you live with has a weaker immune system, you might want to raise the temperature a few degrees. The concern is generally for larger buildings, a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Recent guidance from the CDC says that setting your water heater at a higher temperature can kill more germs, but that the risk of scalding, especially for young children and elderly adults, needs to be carefully monitored.
Other ways to save hot water
Besides the thermostat, you should pay attention to your water heater's pipes and tank too. Insulating the tank and pipes can save heat during times you're not using hot water. You can also install low flow faucets and shower heads, which will reduce the amount of hot water you use without impacting your experience.
If you're unsure about making any of these improvements on your own, check with your utility. Utilities may offer home energy efficiency fixes for free or a discounted price. In some cases, someone from the utility will come and install insulation and new shower heads for free.
In addition to adjustments to your home's hot water infrastructure, you can adjust your habits. Taking shorter showers, washing laundry on a cold setting, showering instead of bathing and using a dishwasher can all save hot water.
Many water heaters have an expected life time of around 10 to 20 years. If you need to replace your water heater, look for an efficient one. You can start with Energy Star, which will help you find energy efficient Energy Star-certified water heaters and provides you with buying guides to decide on brand, energy source and type, like tankless or storage.
You'll have to balance the upfront costs of a water heater with the savings over time, but water heaters, like many appliances, typically have estimated energy costs disclosed before purchase.
The bottom line
An easy way to save money around the house -- sometimes up to hundreds of dollars per year -- is to lower your water heater's temperature and use less hot water. When it comes time to replace your water heater, energy efficient options can help and there are multiple models available to meet your needs.
After you've taken a look at your water heater, move on to your air conditioner, rethink your thermostat placement or consider solar energy.
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The Galaxy S21 lineup is here, with a $200 price cut, new design and S Pen support
The Galaxy S21 lineup is here, with a $200 price cut, new design and S Pen support
This story is part of CES, where CNET covers the latest news on the most incredible tech coming soon.
Samsung's new Galaxy S21 lineup is here. And the new Galaxy S21, S21 Plus and S21 Ultra have plenty to attract would-be buyers, including new designs and $200 shaved off the starting price of their predecessors.
The South Korean electronics giant on Thursday, during its first virtual Unpacked event of the year, showed off its three new phones: the $800 Galaxy S21, the $1,000 Galaxy S21 Plus and the $1,200 Galaxy S21 Ultra. (In the UK, the S21 will start at £769, just £30 cheaper than the S20.) It also unveiled new $200 earbuds, called the Galaxy Buds Pro; $30 Tile-like Galaxy SmartTags that can track nonelectronic items like pets; and a $40 S Pen accessory. The event took place on the last day of this year's CES and more than a month earlier than normal.
Samsung's Galaxy S21 lineup is packed with refinements to the cameras, displays and 5G capabilities. The new phones feature a redesign that accentuates the camera lenses on their backs while linking them with their metal frames, something Samsung calls "Contour Cut Camera" housing. The base amount of storage for all of the S21 models is 128GB, and Samsung boosted the photo and video capabilities for vloggers and others.
The lower price is a nod to the realities of the world, with the coronavirus pandemic shutting down many global economies and eliminating millions of jobs. Smartphones, serving as a lifeline to friends and co-workers, remain one of the few essential gadgets. This is also one of the first phones in a few years that didn't introduce a brand new technology like 5G, which often justifies a premium.
"In 2021, our top priority is to bring the benefit of technology to more people," TM Roh, the head of Samsung's mobile communication business, said in a statement, calling the Galaxy S21 series "the most powerful and versatile flagship lineup ever."
On the other end of the spectrum, the S21 Ultra is designed for people who want the "best of the best." It features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display, Samsung's best camera of the S21 lineup with four back lenses, and Corning's scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and back. The S21 and S21 Plus have 6.2- and 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x displays, respectively, and Gorilla Glass Victus on the front. The S21 Plus also has the glass on the back, while the regular S21 features a plastic polycarbonate backing. Both have three camera lenses on the back.
This year, Samsung has brought support for its S Pen, a hallmark of the Galaxy Note lineup, to its Galaxy S family for the first time. Of the three new phones, only the S21 Ultra works with the S Pen, and it comes as a separate accessory that costs $40 for just the pen or $70 when bundled with a specially designed case that stores the stylus. Users can't stow the S Pen away inside the S21 Ultra like they can with Note, but they can use their old Note styluses with the S21 Ultra. The new accessory doesn't work with gestures or many of the other features found in the Note's S Pen, which likely means the Note line isn't dead quite yet.
Samsung will introduce an S Pen Pro later this year, though, that has some of the Bluetooth-enabled features found in the Note's stylus, like gestures. Samsung didn't give a price or release date for the S Pen Pro.
The new phones come as Samsung faces a tougher market for 5G phones. When the Galaxy S20 lineup hit the market a year ago, there still were relatively few 5G phones available, and they weren't cheap. Now competition is fierce. Prices for 5G phones go as low as $300 in the US, and virtually all companies sell 5G models. Every phone in Apple'siPhone 12 lineup from late 2020 came with 5G by default, something that was expected to help the technology go mainstream. At the same time, the world continues to grapple with a pandemic that's limiting budgets for new gadgets.
Samsung made the decision to drop the starting price of its new phones by $200 because of a few factors. Components like 5G processors, displays and camera modules now cost less because Samsung has such a high volume of those parts in devices across its portfolio. The company also made some minor trade-offs in its S21 and S21 Plus devices, like lowering the base level of RAM to 8GB from 12GB.
"For people who want the highest-end, Ultra experience, we still have that, and we're not sacrificing [the features] based on price point," Drew Blackard, Samsung Electronics America's vice president of product management, said in an interview ahead of Unpacked. "For people who want value and an amazing flagship experience at the same time, we still have a great offering for them with the S21. And then we've got something kind of in between for people who want a little bit of both."
The existence of the Ultra is a reminder that not everyone feels the impact of the pandemic equally.
"The people that are buying an S21 Ultra are not feeling the pressure of the pandemic," Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi said. Samsung "could have decided that maybe [its] entry product was going to be cheaper but leave the two flagships more expensive. But it's not doing that."
Preorders for the phones begin Thursday at 8 a.m. PT, and the phones hit stores on Jan. 29. The Galaxy Buds Pro are available Thursday on Samsung.com and will be at other retailers on Friday. People who preorder the phones get up to $200 in Samsung credit and also get a free Galaxy SmartTag. In addition, carriers are offering promotions, like AT&T's offer for up to $800 off when trading in an eligible device and purchasing the new phone on a 30-month installment plan.
Say cheese
One of the biggest differentiators for the Galaxy S21 Ultra over the S21 and S21 Plus is the camera. The pricier device comes with four cameras on the back -- ultra-wide, wide and dual tele-lenses -- and an upgraded 108-megapixel sensor. That allows users to capture 12-bit HDR photos with 64 times richer color data and more than three times wider dynamic range. In other words, sharper, better photos.
"When designing the Galaxy S21, we thought about how people use their cameras today," Stephen Hawke, director of product management for Samsung Electronics America, said during a briefing with reporters ahead of Unpacked. "For instance, there are those fleeting moments when you just don't have time to think about the perfect mode or setting to capture a shot, let alone switch to recording video. We need our phones to do all this for us. With a Galaxy S21, you get photos and videos with the simplicity of point and shoot."
When it comes to video, the Ultra enables users to shoot in 4K at 60fps across all lenses, including those on the front, meaning they can shift to different perspectives with the same quality. A new feature called Director's View lets you see a scene from multiple perspectives simultaneously, while Vlogger View lets you shoot with the front and rear cameras at the same time. Pro Mode lets users capture images in a 12-bit raw file format to make it easier to edit the images later.
The Galaxy S21 Ultra has four camera and laser autofocus on the back.
Drew Evans/CNET
The S20 Ultra features 100x Space Zoom, like its predecessor, but in this year's phone is a new feature called Zoom Lock that keeps the camera focused on an object for a clearer picture. Samsung said it provides "tripod-like stability with an AI-powered stabilizer." Space Zoom on the S21 Ultra is powered by Samsung's first dual-tele-lens system, which is one optical 3X zoom for midrange and one optical 10x zoom for long-range. Both have dual pixel autofocus to capture ultra clear shots.
Low-light photography also gets a boost in the Galaxy S21 Ultra. Samsung improved its Bright Night sensor and Night Mode to reduce noise and capture challenging shots like dimly lit rooms or landscapes at night.
The Galaxy S21 and S21 Plus both have three rear cameras in ultra-wide, wide and tele-lens. They feature 30X Space Zoom with Zoom Lock, as well as Director's View and Vlogger View. Portrait Mode gets a boost from AI, which provides options for virtual studio light and effects to make the subject pop from the frame -- with both the rear cameras and the front-facing selfie lens.
Samsung has improved its 8K Snap feature to let users grab clear images from 8K video footage, and its Super Steady Video records at an "improved" 60fps. The new Galaxy S21 phones also feature Multi-Mic Recording when paired with the new Galaxy Buds Pro, letting users record with their camera mic and earbuds mic at the same time.
What's inside
All phones in the Galaxy S21 lineup in the US come with Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 888 processor and integrated 5G modem. The new Snapdragon chip is more effective at connecting to all flavors of 5G, from the slower, more reliable nationwide variant offered by all the US carriers, or the speedier but more finicky millimeter wave version touted by Verizon, and boasts peak download speeds of 7.5 Gbps and upload speeds of 3Gbps.
The new processor with its integrated modem is "really important," Technalysis Research analyst Bob O'Donnell said. By being able to combine different types of 5G airwaves together, there's a "huge potential increase in performance in 5G," he said.
The Galaxy S21 Plus gets a bigger battery -- 4,800 mAh versus 4,500 in the S20 Plus -- while the S21 stays steady with 4,000 mAh and the S21 Ultra retains its 5,000 mAH battery.
Also under the hood, or rather the display, is an improved fingerprint sensor from Qualcomm. The chip giant on Monday unveiled the second generation of its 3D Sonic Sensor that's 50% faster and 77% bigger than the previous generation, making it easier for people to to unlock their devices using their fingerprints. Along with making it simpler to know where to place a finger, the larger size also allows the technology to collect 1.7 times more biometric data, speeding up the unlock time.
Samsung also included ultra wideband, or UWB, technology in the Galaxy S21 Plus and S21 Ultra. The technology lets a user pinpoint the exact location of phones, key fobs and tracking tags, helping them find lost dogs or automatically unlock their car. UWB calculates precise locations by measuring how long it takes super-short radio pulses to travel between devices. (Note: It's different from the Ultra Wideband terminology Verizon uses for its mmWave 5G network.)
Samsung will eventually have UWB in its Galaxy SmartTags, but the first version available will use Bluetooth Low Energy. The company didn't yet say when the UWB version will be available or how much it will cost, but it sees big opportunities for UWB in the future, especially as it tries to control the smart home.
"We recently launched SmartThings Find to help you quickly and easily locate your Galaxy devices, even when offline," KJ Kim, chief technology officer and head of mobile R&D for Samsung, said in a statement. "We took this a step further with Galaxy S21 Plus and S21 Ultra, which use expanded UWB capabilities to utilize the AR finder so you can send virtual messages to other Galaxy users during your search."
He added that Samsung has formed partnerships with "major car companies" to provide "a next-generation car experience starting this summer."
And out
The phones in the Galaxy S21 lineup all feature a matte finish that helps minimize fingerprints. In the US, the Galaxy S21 Ultra comes in phantom black and phantom silver, and it has four possible configurations. The silver only comes with 128GB of storage and 12GB RAM, while the black has 128GB or 256GB of storage with 12GB RAM, and a monster 512GB model with 16GB RAM.
The S21 Plus and S21 have some brighter color options, including phantom violet and phantom pink, the latter of which is only in the S21. There are two storage options for those phones, either 128GB or 256GB, both with 8GB RAM.
Samsung's Galaxy S21 (left), Galaxy S21 Plus (center) and Galaxy S21 Ultra hit stores Jan. 29.
Drew Evans/CNET
Samsung's Bixby voice assistant again makes an appearance in the S21 lineup, but its button can be remapped to other tasks. It's also integrated into SmartThings, Samsung's smart home control app.
The S21 Ultra has some advantages when it comes to the screen. All three use Samsung's Infinity-O Displays, are HDR10+ certified and have an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate that automatically adjusts based on what the users is doing, but the Ultra has a resolution of 3,200x1,440, while the other two are 2,400x1,080.
The Ultra also has a Quad HD+ display -- versus flat, full HD+ in the S21 and S21 Plus -- and "the best, brightest display ever," Samsung's Hawke said. He noted the picture is 25% brighter than in the S21 and S21 Plus. The Ultra also has a 50% improved contrast ratio to deliver clear, immersive images, even when outdoors, and a brighter screen
"This is going to make content really pop, especially high dynamic range content," said Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart. "People will be able to use it outdoors without [the screen] getting washed out."
For Samsung, the hope is that its lineup has something for everyone.
"When it comes to shopping for new smartphones, first and foremost, people want choice," Samsung's Blackard said. "That is both in terms of features and in terms of price points. So we're really committed to driving a range of different devices that offer what we think is that diversity of needs that's in the market today."
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Battery Backup vs. Generator: Which Backup Power Source Is Best for You?
Battery Backup vs. Generator: Which Backup Power Source Is Best for You?
When you live somewhere with extreme weather or regular power outages, it's a good idea to have a backup power source for your home. There are various types of backup power systems on the market, but each serves the same primary purpose: keeping your lights and appliances on when the power goes out.
It might be a good year to look into backup power: Much of North America is at an elevated risk of blackout this summer thanks to an ongoing drought and expected higher than average temperatures, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation said Wednesday. Parts of the United States, from Michigan down to the Gulf Coast, are at a high risk making blackouts even more likely.
The SaveOnEnergy marketplace helps you search, compare, sign up and save on the right energy fit for your home — all for free. If you're interested in solar, answer a few questions to get an exact price quote from our solar advisors.
In the past, fuel-powered standby generators (also known as whole house generators) have dominated the backup power supply market, but reports of risk of carbon monoxide poisoning have led many to search for alternatives. Battery backups have emerged as a more eco-friendly and potentially safer option to conventional generators.
Despite performing the same function, battery backups and generators are different devices. Each one has a particular set of advantages and disadvantages, which we'll cover in the following comparison guide. Keep reading to find out about the main differences between battery backups and generators and decide which option is right for you.
Cynthia R Matonhodze/Bloomberg/Getty Images
Battery backups
Home battery backup systems, such as the Tesla Powerwall or the LG Chem RESU, store energy, which you can use to power your house during an outage. Battery backups run on electricity, either from your home solar system or the electrical grid. As a result, they're much better for the environment than fuel-powered generators. They're also better for your wallet.
Separately, if you have a time-of-use utility plan, you can use a battery backup system to save money on your energy bills. Instead of paying high electricity rates during peak usage hours, you can use energy from your battery backup to power your home. In off-peak hours, you can use your electricity as normal -- but at a cheaper rate.
LifestyleVisuals/Getty Images
Generators
On the other hand, standby generators connect to your home's electrical panel and kick on automatically when the power goes out. Generators run on fuel to keep your electricity on during an outage -- typically natural gas, liquid propane or diesel. Other generators have a "dual fuel" feature, meaning that they can run on either natural gas or liquid propane.
Certain natural gas and propane generators can connect to your home's gas line or propane tank, so there's no need to refill them manually. Diesel generators, however, will need to be topped up in order to keep running.
Battery backup vs. generator: How do they compare?
Pricing
In terms of cost, battery backups are the pricier option upfront. But generators need fuel to run, which means that you'll spend more over time to maintain a steady fuel supply.
With battery backups, you'll need to pay for the backup battery system upfront, as well as installation costs (each of which are in the thousands). Exact pricing will vary based on which battery model you choose and how many of them you need to power your home. However, it's common for an average-sized home battery backup system to run between $10,000 and $20,000.
For generators, the upfront costs are slightly lower. On average, the price of purchasing and installing a standby generator can range from $7,000 to $15,000. However, remember that generators require fuel to run, which will increase your operating expenses. The specific costs will depend on a few factors, including the size of your generator, which type of fuel it uses and the amount of fuel used to run it.
Installation
Battery backups earn a slight edge in this category since they can be mounted to the wall or floor, whereas generator installations require a bit of additional work. Regardless, you'll need to hire a professional for either type of installation, both of which will require a full day of work and may cost several thousand dollars.
Aside from setting up the device itself, installing a generator also requires pouring a concrete slab, connecting the generator to a dedicated fuel source and installing a transfer switch.
Maintenance
Battery backups are the clear winner in this category. They're quiet, run independently, don't produce any emissions and don't require any ongoing maintenance.
On the other hand, generators can be quite noisy and disruptive when they're in use. They also emit exhaust or fumes, depending on which type of fuel they use to run -- which may irritate you or your neighbors.
Keeping your home powered
As far as how long they can keep your home powered, standby generators easily outperform battery backups. As long as you have enough fuel, generators can run continuously for up to three weeks at a time (if necessary).
That's simply not the case with battery backups. Let's use the Tesla Powerwall as an example. It has 13.5 kilowatt-hours of storage capacity, which can provide power for a few hours on its own. You can get extra power out of them if they're part of a solar panel system or if you use multiple batteries in a single system.
Expected lifespan and warranty
In most cases, battery backups come with longer warranties than standby generators. However, these warranties are measured in different ways.
Over time, battery backup systems lose the ability to hold a charge, much like phones and laptops. For that reason, battery backups include an end-of-warranty capacity rating, which measures how effective a battery will hold a charge by the end of its warranty period. In Tesla's case, the company guarantees that the Powerwall battery should retain 70% of its capacity by the end of its 10-year warranty.
Some backup battery manufacturers also offer a "throughput" warranty. This is the number of cycles, hours or energy output (known as "throughput") that a company guarantees on its battery.
With standby generators, it's easier to estimate lifespan. Good-quality generators can run for 3,000 hours, as long as they're well maintained. Therefore, if you run your generator for 150 hours per year, then it should last about 20 years.
Which one is right for you?
Across most categories, battery backup systems come out on top. In short, they're better for the environment, easier to install and cheaper to run long-term. Plus, they have longer warranties than standby generators.
With that said, traditional generators can be a good option in some cases. Unlike battery backups, you only need a single generator to restore power in an outage, which brings down the upfront costs. Plus, standby generators can last longer than battery backup systems in a single session. As a result, they'll be a safer bet if the power is out for days at a time.
