3 minute read
Technology
Tech To Ease The Pain Of Home Maintenance
Thinking about sprucing up around your home? Outdoor home and garden work can often be physically demanding, but here are some tools that make the job a bit easier.
Orbit telescoping gutter cleaning wand, $30
If cleaning the gutters feels like a never-ending battle against the leaves and your ability and desire to climb a ladder, this inexpensive gutter cleaning wand might be a gamechanger. It easily attaches to the end of your hose to angle the spray of water into the gutter with enough pressure to clear out the leaves and debris. But, the best part is that the wand extends up to 60 feet, allowing you to keep your feet planted firmly on the ground while you work.
Ryobi One+ cordless bypass lopper, $111
You don’t realize how badly you need this tool until you get it. This battery-powered lopper easily cuts branches and twigs with the pull of a trigger, making it the ultimate tool for pruning your trees and shrubs. This model is part of the Ryobi One+ collection, which allows you to use the same battery pack for multiple tools. While it doesn’t come with a battery, a battery and charger can be purchased at most hardware stores or on Amazon for about $60.
Rotoshovel, $120
Digging in the dirt to plant bulbs can be hard on the hands and wrists, but the Rotoshovel makes it exceptionally easy. Essentially, Rotoshovel is a handheld, batterypowered auger, perfect for creating the deep holes necessary for your plants to thrive. With simple pushbutton activation, the Rotoshovel is convenient and easy to use, making digging holes a breeze.
Greenworks 24-volt 8-in battery pole saw, $149
When you need to cut branches in hard-to-reach areas, a pole saw will be your best friend. This tool is like a small chainsaw at the end of an extendable pole, which allows you to cut tree limbs without climbing a ladder. The tool is fairly lightweight and easy to use, making it a go-to for all your trimming needs.
Ryobi 1900 PSI 1.2 GPM wheeled corded electric pressure washer, $169
This Ryobi pressure washer is not the most powerful one you can buy. Ryobi themselves make a more powerful model. However, when we balance power with portability and value, this one really comes out on top. Its lightweight body means it is easy to store and won’t break your back to move. You’ll find that the pressure it offers is plenty for nearly every home use, making it perfect for keeping your home looking clean and beautiful year-round.
Ames rolling lawn & garden storage cart, $41
If we’re honest, bending over in the garden becomes a little less fun every year. But this cart doesn’t just store your garden gloves — it also saves your back from a lot of pain. It doubles as a small garden seat, and the carry handle makes it extra portable.
By Vanessa Hutchison
Today's Transitions | Summer 2024
