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Smart Home Guides

The Blink Mini 2 installed outside.

How to mount your Blink Mini 2 security camera

If you want to mount your Blink Mini 2, you'll be glad to know it's an easy process. Here's a look at how it works, along with how to flip your video if needed.
Philips Hue bulb on a bleached wood plank.

How to reset Philips Hue bulbs and light strips

Philips Hue bulbs are easy to reset. Learn how to return your smart lights to their factory settings with or without the bridge accessory.
Alexa app on phone.

What to do if your Amazon Alexa app is not working

Experiencing issues with the Amazon Alexa app? Here are a few ways you can fix an unresponsive Alexa app or one that's not working as intended.
Woman in bed looking toward Echo Dot.

How to use all Amazon Alexa alarm clock features

Are you interested in using Alexa on your Echo or other devices as an alarm? Alexa can manage a variety of alarm options, and we'll show you have to use them!

How to convert your window blinds into smart blinds

Smart blinds can be prohibitively expensive, but DIY conversion kits can save money while providing all of the same benefits.
Person installing Ring video doorbell

How to fix a Ring doorbell that won’t chime

If your Ring video doorbell won't chime, there are a few things you'll need to check. Here's a comprehensive walkthrough to get your chime working properly.
The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra placed in its dock.

Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra vs. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: Which is the best robot vacuum?

Along with their names, the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra and Roborock S8 Pro Ultra share a lot of similarities. But there are a few key differences to be aware of.
The Instant Pot Duo Mini on a counter.

The most common Instant Pot problems and how to fix them

Instant Pots are safe, high-tech, and can do almost anything -- but they can be tough to figure out. We list common Instant Pot problems and how to fix them.
Narwal Freo X Ultra smart robotic vacuum with family

Narwal Freo X Ultra vs. Narwal Freo: What’s the difference between these robot vacuums?

The Narwal Freo X Ultra is a much better robot vacuum than the old Narwal Freo, but is it worth the hefty price? Here's what you need to know.
A computer showing off the stream of an IP camera.

How to view your IP camera remotely via a web browser

Viewing your IP camera's stream through a web browser is somewhat similar to accessing a website and viewing a livestream. Here are the steps to do it properly.
The Ring Video Doorbell in Satin Nickel, installed beside a doorway.

How to change the owner on a Ring Doorbell

If you're buying or selling a home that has a Ring Doorbell, you'll need to transfer ownership of the device. The process is straightforward and simple, though.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) on table.

What an Alexa red ring means and how to fix it

Is your Alexa device showing a red ring that doesn't seem to go away? Don't worry -- it's usually something that's easy to fix. Here's what you should know.
The Google Nest Cam Indoor on a table.

Blink Mini 2 vs. Nest Cam (Indoor): Which is the better affordable security camera?

The Blink Mini 2 and Nest Cam (Indoor) both clock in at less than $100, but which is better for your home. Here's a look at both to help you decide.
the only robot vacuums worthyour attention today prime day 2020 roomba i7

How to reboot and factory reset a Roomba vacuum

Is your Roomba giving you technical issues? A reboot may be all your bot needs to get it back in proper working order. Here's a guide on how to reset your vac.
The Blink Mini 2 installed outside.

Blink Mini 2 vs. Blink Mini: Is Amazon’s new security camera a worthy upgrade?

The Blink Mini 2 has a lot of features you won't find on the Blink Mini, but is it worth upgrading to Amazon's newest security camera? Here's what to know.
The Narwal Freo X Ultra working in a living room.

How to empty the Narwal Freo X Ultra dustbin

Need to empty the dustbin on your Narwal Freo X Ultra? Or maybe you want to swap from its disposable dustbins to the reusable dustbin? Here's what to know.
Ring Video Doorbell Wired

Ring Video Doorbell buying guide: Which is best for you?

Ring has a variety of video doorbells that feature different capabilities. We'll help you decide which is the right choice for your home.
A Ring Video Doorbell 4 mounted near a home's front door.

How to install a Ring Video Doorbell at your home or office

Installing a Ring Video Doorbell doesn't have to be hard, even if you aren't a DIY pro. We'll walk you through what to do and what you will need for the job.
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra in its dock.

Narwal Freo X Ultra vs. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: Which is the best robot vacuum?

The Narwal Freo X Ultra and Roborock S8 Pro Ultra are two of the best robot vacuums of 2024. But which is better for your home? Here's a closer look at both.

How to tell if someone is using your Wi-Fi (and kick them off)

Is your internet connection running slowly? One of your neighbors might be stealing your Wi-Fi. Here's how to tell and what you should do if you find a problem.
Amazon Fire TV on Echo Show 15.

Echo Hub vs. Echo Show 15: Which is the best smart home gadget?

The Echo Hub and Echo Show 15 might look similar, but there are some important differences between the two Amazon products. Here's what you need to know.
Closeup of camera on the Google Nest Cam (battery).

How to factory reset a Google Nest Cam (indoor or outdoor)

Having trouble with a Google Nest Cam? If it's not performing the way it should, you may need a factory reset. Here's what to do and what to know ahead of time.
Person installing Ring video doorbell

How to remove a Ring Doorbell from a door or wall

Moving, or just need to recharge a Ring Video Doorbell? Here's how to do it, even if you don't have the special screwdriver that comes with the unit.
The Blink XT Home Security Camera mounted on a tree in snow.

How to factory reset a Blink camera (indoor or outdoor)

Here is an overview on how to reset your Blink camera system if you're having issues or want to sell it to a new owner.
A blue Google Nest Mini mounted on blue/gray wall.

How to reset a Google Nest Mini smart speaker

If you’re thinking about swapping out Google's entry-level smart speaker, you’ll first need to wipe your device. Here's how to factory reset a Google Nest Mini.
The Echo Show 10 on a kitchen counter.

How to set up a pre-owned Echo Show smart display

Looking to set up a pre-owned Echo Show? Here's a look at everything you need to know, with universal steps that work for the Echo Show 5, Echo Show 8, and more.
A person using WhatsApp Messenger on his Android smartphone.

How to remove an account from Google Smart Lock

Google Smart Lock makes logging into your Google products easy, but sometimes things change. Here's how to remove an account from Google Smart Lock safely.
The Echo Hub on a stand.

The 6 best Echo Hub tips and tricks

From customizing your home screen to syncing your security system, here are a few tips and tricks for using your new Echo Hub.
Shark ION Robot vacuum cleaning. cleaning tile

How to fix a Shark robot vacuum that’s not charging

Is your Shark vacuum refusing to charge? This issue can be frustrating, especially with a robot vacuum that's supposed to recharge easily. Here's how to fix it.
The square Ring Alarm device, mounted on a wall.

How to connect the Ring security system to Echo Hub

Here's how to connect the Ring security system to your Echo Hub, along with tips on how to arm and disarm the system, as well as use its Live View function.
Google Home icon on home screen.

How to use the Google Home app on a computer

Want to add Google Home's smart controls to your computer? While there's no desktop app, you can try one of these workarounds to get Google Home on your PC.
The Shark Rotator vacuum in action.

Red, green, flashing: What do my Shark vacuum’s lights mean?

Have you noticed a solid or flashing red light somewhere on your Shark vacuum? It's a sign there's something wrong with the unit, and we're here to help.
Amazon Smart Plug.

How to set a timer on Amazon Smart Plugs

If you're looking to automate your outlets, Amazon Smart Plugs are a great option. Here's what you need to know about creating a timer for your smart plugs.
The Vizio OLED 4K HDR TV in living room.

How to connect Alexa to your TV for smart voice control

Alexa is a powerful smart assistant that can even control your TV. Here's how to connect Alexa to your smart TV, set-top box, or streaming device.