Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro Review: A Smart Upgrade for Pool Owners

As a Florida homeowner, I have a love-hate relationship with my in-ground pool. The cool, refreshing water is a must-have amenity for swampy summer days, but I dread trying to keep it clean. After all, even though I live a solid 20 minutes from the beach, there’s still sand pretty much everywhere. And trying to keep the pool free of those tiny grains feels like a Sisyphean task.

Well, it did until the Beatbot AquaSense 2 Pro came along. This robot pool cleaner has been a total game-changer for keeping the pool clean. Read on for my full review.

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Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro

This Beatbot pool cleaner uses intelligent navigation to map and clean pools of all shapes up to 3,875 square feet.

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What is the Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro?

The Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro is a cordless, robotic pool cleaner. It uses intelligent navigation to map and clean both in-ground and above-ground pools up to 3,875 square feet. With a runtime of up to 10 hours for surface cleaning and up to five hours for floor, wall and waterline cleaning, it’s often able to get the job done in one go.

The Beatbot Aquasense Pro also comes with an easy-to-use app and a clarifying agent kit. The included ClearWater Natural Clarification is listed as skin-safe and eco-friendly, and does not have to be added with every use.

Beatbot Pool Vacuum Features

The Beatbot pool vacuum is loaded with intelligent features that make it one of the best pool vacuums on the market.

• Intelligent navigation: The Beatbot pool cleaner uses the brand’s CleverNav Smart Navigation System and SonicSense Ultrasonic Pool Mapping and Obstacle Avoidance. This advanced navigation system allows the robot to clean pools of all shapes, including rectangular, round, kidney and freeform. Just keep in mind that if the bottom and walls of your pool are curved, ultrasonic waves may be reflected upwards at the bend and cannot be received by the machine. In these cases, the Beatbot may not be able to draw a map.
• 5G/2.4G WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity: Users can remotely control the Beatbot pool cleaner through the app. However, this feature can only be used on water surface cleaning.
• Multiple cleaning coverage areas: This pool vacuum cleans the water surface, floor, walls and waterline. The two-layer filter can capture everything from leaves and insects to hair and sand.
• Automatic surface parking: When it finishes a cleaning cycle, the Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro parks itself at the surface of your pool for easy removal.
• Water Clarification: ClearWater Natural Clarification kit is skin-safe and eco-friendly. It’s designed to remove dead algae, fine debris and other organic particles, turning your water from cloudy to crystal clear.

How We Tested It

I have been using the Beatbot Aquasense Pro since May, 2025. Our house is on a large piece of property in a dirt road community. Although the pool is enclosed in a lanai, I still end up with tons of dirt and sand on the patio and, of course, in the pool.

During the spring, there are also obscene amounts of pollen that settle on top of the water. Depending on the season, the Beatbot goes in the pool at least once or twice a week in addition to my weekly pool cleaning service.

Set-Up and First Impressions

As soon as I opened the box, I was impressed by the Beatbot. It’s clearly a well-built machine, and I was excited to see it in action. Unboxing and assembling the robot only took a few minutes. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and I didn’t need to look up any additional videos or tutorials. It was fully charged and ready for use in under three hours.

Since I had recently had the pool professionally cleaned and treated ahead of the hot season, the water was already crystal clear. Therefore, I did not use the clarifying agent on that first deployment. I also did not use the app initially. It’s worth noting that the Beatbot can only be controlled through the app when on the water surface. You cannot use the app for underwater cleaning.

The Beatbot has several settings. Since I have a filter that catches large debris, I opted to have it clean the bottom and sides of the pool. This takes several hours to complete, but the results make it worth the wait. This robot does a great job of sucking up small sand particles and other small debris. Overall, it left the bottom and sides of the pool super clean!

Cleaning and Care

The maintenance on the Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro is, for the most part, a piece of cake. It has a double-filter debris basket that really works well and is easy to clean after every use. The only hitch is that debris doesn’t always make it into the basket and settles in the space between the basket and the compartment. When this happens, I just take the Beatbot over to the hose and quickly clean it out.

When not in use, the Beatbot just lives on the charging station on the lanai. So while it is outside all year long, it’s out of the sun and elements. Other than some pollen and dust on the outside, the Beatbot still looks like it’s in mint condition.

Longterm Use

After a year of continuous use in my Florida pool, the one word that comes to mind is “convenience.” The Beatbot is incredibly simple to use. All I have to do is remove it from the charging station and set it on the ground for a few seconds of self-calibration. Then plop it into the pool and let it do its thing. Once it’s finished, take it out of the pool, clear out the filter basket and set it back on the charger.

I’m always impressed by how well this robot cleans the pool. No matter how much sand makes it into the pool, the Beatbot gets it all. No debris is ever left behind.

The only thing my Beatbot doesn’t clean is the steps. While it can clean steps, mine are too small for the Beatbot Aquasense Pro.

During testing, I did overcome my aversion to technology and download the app. Imagine my childlike excitement when I discovered that I could drive the Beatbot on the surface with my phone like a little motorboat. But excitement aside, this feature is worth its weight in gold during the spring when the pool has a thick layer of pollen on the surface. Yuck!

I also tried the clarifying agent that came with the robot, but unfortunately, I didn’t notice much of a difference. However, that could be because someone comes every Monday to treat the pool and give it a quick clean.

The only downside is that you have to physically move the Beatbot from the charging station to the ground, give it a few seconds to self-calibrate, then move it back into the water. When it’s finished cleaning, you have to physically pull it out of the pool and put it back on the charger. And, as mentioned above, there are times when I have to carry it out of the lanai and across the yard to the hose. At just over 25 pounds, some users may have difficulty moving it from place to place.

Overall, I’m incredibly pleased with the Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro after a year of regular use. It’s an easy and effective way to keep the pool clean. Best of all, the machine itself doesn’t require any maintenance. There are no cleaning cycles to run or filters to change.

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Effectively cleans the bottom, sides and surface of the pool
• Sucks up tiny sand particles as well as larger debris
• Can be used in any shape pool
• Suitable for in-ground and above-ground pools
• Long runtime
• Generous three-year warranty

Cons

• Must physically move it to and from the charging station and the water

Final Verdict

If you only want the best for your backyard oasis, I highly recommend the Beatbot. It’s a durable machine that keeps your pool squeaky clean with minimal effort on your part. After a year of regular use, I couldn’t be happier with the unit and anticipate continued use for years to come. At over $2,000, the Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro is a significant investment. Then again, so is your pool.

Where to Buy

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Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro

This Beatbot pool vacuum cleans everything from leaves and insects to gravel and fine sand.

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The Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro retails for $2,299, but this model does occasionally go on sale. When it does, you can save upwards of $500. It is available on the brand’s website as well as on Amazon and Walmart. Skip the tedious pool cleaning this summer—Beatbot has it handled!

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 FAQ

How do you reset a Beatbot Aquasense Pro?

To reset your Beatbot Aquasense Pro, press and hold the three control settings—power, standard mode and pro mode—for 10 seconds. This will restore the Beatbot to factory settings.

How do you use Beatbot?

You must physically move the Beatbot from the charger to the ground and wait a few seconds for it to self-calibrate. Once it calibrates, move it from the ground to the pool and let it complete the cleaning cycle. Once it’s finished, the Beatbot will park itself on the surface until you come to take it out of the water. After removing it from the pool, clean out the debris basket and place it back on the charging dock until the next cleaning.

Are Beatbot pool cleaners good?

Yes! I have been using the Beatbot consistently for one year and have been impressed by its performance.

How much is a Beatbot pool cleaner?

Beatbot makes several different robotic pool cleaners. Some models, like the entry-level Sora 10, retail for $699. Others, like the new Aquasense X, will set you back a cool $4,250. The Beatbot Aquasense 2 Pro retails for $2,299 but often goes on sale, making it a great middle-of-the-road pick.

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Watch Pamela Anderson Transform Her Grandparents’ Home in “Pamela’s Garden of Eden”

If you’ve been looking for a new show that combines renovation, sustainability, an incredible host, and a nostalgic core that’ll hit you right in your feels, then wehave some great news for you. Actress and activist Pamela Anderson’s series Pamela’s Garden of Eden is now streaming on At Home with Family Handyman, and it checks all the boxes. Each episode focuses on an aspect of a home renovation as she returns to the property her grandparents once owned and works to bring it back to life and make it her personal paradise.

In the third episode of Pamela’s Garden of Eden, Anderson focuses on renovating the front room of one of the buildings on the property she calls the Roadhouse. When she was a child, this room was her grandmother’s general store. Anderson spends the episode working with her designer, Francesca, to figure out how to make the space inviting while also preserving her family’s history.

The Inspiration

Anderson begins the brainstorming process by telling Francesca about the space’s history. She recalls reaching into the fridge in the corner for frozen treats. She also fondly remembers the large counter with the cash register on it, which was the focal point of the space. When she discusses the renovation with her parents, she laughs, remembering how she’d “put things on their account” as a child.

As Anderson and Francesca discuss design ideas, they agree it’s not functional as is. Currently, Anderson is using it as her office. However, since it’s right at the home’s entry and not entirely private, it’s not exactly conducive to focus.

In transforming it into a more welcoming area, Anderson wants to include a nod to the space’s history. She stresses the importance of making it feel creative, too. She doesn’t want it to just look like something out of a catalog. This is a piece of family history, and that element is crucial to her.

The two discuss furniture elements, color palettes and fun touches, all centered on bringing that history to the forefront so she and her parents could reminisce about her grandmother and the fun times they all had when they’d visit the Roadhouse.

The Key Touches

Bringing this space back to life, blending Anderson’s taste with the details that will honor its history, and staying as sustainable as possible throughout is no small order. But Anderson, Francesca and the build team work hard to make it happen. They go back and forth over a tile inlay in the floor, the right fabrics for window treatments, and what decor elements will fit best with the space and Anderson’s vision.

One inspired design choice that blends all the critical elements is a coffee station. The espresso machine has a similar profile to the old cash register. As such, it immediately calls back fond memories of childhood. The small table sits near the window—the perfect spot to enjoy coffee and cookies. Plus, it gives the room a familiar cafe feel; the kind you might find yourself returning to again and again because it feels more like an extension of your own home than a restaurant.

To find out how the rest of the renovation goes, you can watch Pamela’s Garden of Eden on At Home with Family Handyman. Season one premiered May 4, 2026 and season two premiers in June 2026.

At Home with Family Handyman is currently available on Samsung TV Plus, XUMO, The Roku Channel, LG Channels, Plex, fuboTV, and Sling Freestream. You can also stream At Home with Family Handyman for free through the Family Handyman app on iOS, Apple TV, Android, AndroidTV, FireTV and Roku devices.

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Costco Recalls Swing After Reports of Seat Detaching Mid-Use

Memorial Day and summer are just around the corner. That means it’s the beginning of outdoor dinner parties and patio season. When it comes to preparing your space for a party, Costco is usually a good option. However, this week the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) announced that there’s a patio swing recall involving almost 20,000 units. Find out if yours is one of them and how to protect yourself, your family members, and your guests.

Why Is Costco Recalling Patio Swings?

Per the USCPSC, in the faulty swings, “the swing seat can detach from the frame while in use.” A sudden drop like this poses “a risk of serious injury or death from a fall hazard.” To date, there are eight reports of this happening. In all of them, the detachment caused injuries “including impact injuries to the head and arms.” Make alternative seating arrangements for your outdoor space for the time being. You can return to using your swing once you’ve either confirmed that it’s safe or finished the recommended repair.

Which Patio Swing Models Are Included in the Recall?

If you own an “Agio Menlo Woven Patio Swings with model number 1934256,” you need to exercise caution. 18,500 patio swings with that model number and sold by Costco between February and March of 2026 aren’t necessarily adequately attached to the frame.

If you’re unsure about the safety of your own swing, fear not. The recall brief says that “consumers who are unable to determine whether they have the recalled model can contact World Bright International Limited for assistance.” To be cautious, it’s a good idea to refrain from using your patio swing until you know for sure whether or not yours is included in the recall.

Is There a Fix Yet?

According to the recall brief, “consumers should immediately stop using the recalled patio swings and contact World Bright International Limited to receive a free repair in the form of replacement hooks and instructions for replacing the hooks.” Refrain from using your patio swing until you’ve replaced the hooks; no one wants to kick off their summer with a trip to the emergency room. If you have further questions, you can check the USCPSC site. The USCPSC number for this recall is 26-485.

Source

World Bright International Limited Recalls Agio Menlo Woven Patio Swings Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death from Fall Hazard; Sold at Costco, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2026.

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I Regularly Shop Estate Sales With My Mom—These 7 Finds Now Define My Home Décor

Pier 1 Accent Chair and Driftwood-Inspired Side Table

Not everything at an estate sale is necessarily “old charm.” In fact, I picked up this beautiful Pier 1 accent chair and a driftwood side table at two separate sales for a total of $100. Both perfectly suit my cottage-coastal aesthetic and have even become part of my daily routine. Each morning, I love brewing up a latte and kicking back in my cozy chair to enjoy it, while my accent table always showcases a vase of fresh florals. (A year later, I even found a coffee table from Wayfair that coordinates perfectly!)

Vintage Wine Decanter and Glasses

I’m in my hosting era and am a firm believer that every home that entertains guests needs a chic bar setup. Aside from the essentials like wine charms, a bottle opener, and cocktail napkins, it’s always fun to add your own personality into the mix. Mine called for a vintage wine decanter and glass set. I found one that has total Anthropologie vibes—but for the mere price tag of $10! It’s my go-to set whenever I have a dinner party or backyard cocktail gathering. I’m constantly asked, “Where did you get this?”

Royal Worcester Regency Blue China and Pot Set

My friends and family will tell you that whenever I host, I take tablescaping very seriously. I’m always on the lookout for whimsical napkin rings, vases, runners, candles, and even china sets to update my place settings. One of my favorite estate sale finds to-date is my Royal Worcester Regency Blue china set, complete with 24-carat gold trim, which I picked up for $50. (You can pick up the same set on replacements.com for $1,200.00!) I usually place the plates atop the gold plate chargers I have from my wedding.

While I love setting up my china on my long farm table for special dinner parties and occasions, I also enjoy seeing it through my glass kitchen cabinets on a daily basis—the set is truly a work of art and an amazing conversation piece.

Vintage Throw Blankets

While my sectional and dining table are brand-new, I turn to estate sales for that extra-creative touch. The right accents help strike the ultimate balance between chic and comfort. For example, I recently swapped out my beloved IKEA sectional for an adult-worthy upgrade: the POVISON Retro Hand-Tufted Beige Chenille Sofa. Its sleek, elevated design commands attention and really opens up my living space. I found just the right yellow floral throw blanket at a sale that works perfectly with a set of throw pillows I picked up at HomeGoods. Remember—it takes several moving parts to achieve just the right look, and “estating” is a major part of the process.

A Collection of Vases

Another fun fact about me? I’m undeniably obsessed with fresh flowers—so much so that you’ll always find a vase or two filled with fresh blooms of the season in my home each week. Spring and summer are when I thrive, since I can easily head outdoors to cut deep blue hydrangeas, white limelights, and colorful echinacea from my garden to fill my vases.

Vases can be pretty pricey. A collection of three at Pottery Barn can cost roughly $69. Most of mine are $2 to $5 treasured estate sale finds. I love plain glass vases of various sizes and heights to group together—and I’m always on the lookout for blue and yellow pieces, especially when working with neutral bouquets. I’ve picked up quite the collection—my vases even have a dedicated shelf in my home decor closet!

Outdoor Coffee Table

Since my home decor is a mix of both old and new, it made perfect sense that I’d bring the same look outdoors. Once I officially wrapped up my backyard patio renovation, decorating was at the top of mind.

I love a neutral base with pops of patterns and colors through accent pieces like throw pillows, blankets, and tablecloths. While I opted for a brand-new Cozey Mistral Six-Seater Sectional in the sandstone/sandcastle colorway, I paired it with a Pottery Barn concrete and acacia wood coffee table—along with the cover—that had only been used for one season. It’s the perfect shape for the sectional and serves as a solid base for candles, wine glasses, and apps when my husband and I are hosting guests. (It retails for almost $1,400, and I got it for a mere fraction of the cost!)

Naturally, a trip to HomeGoods also ensued, where I found the most beautiful collection of Serena & Lily-esque pillows.

Colorful Glass Orbs

Sometimes, I head into an estate sale with a wishlist, and instead, leave with the most unexpected treasures. My glass orbs are a prime example. I was hoping to find a wind chime and fell in love with these hand-blown, colorful glass works of art. They reminded me of orbs I loved on Wayfair—but not the $56 price tag.

I purchased mine for just $4 each and hung them from a holly tree in my backyard. I admire them year-round from my kitchen windows and enjoy them even more when kicking back on the patio throughout the warmer weather months. The sun sets right behind them, so at the end of each day, a dreamy light shines through the glass, further illuminating the colors. They certainly add a whimsical touch to my garden.

FAQ

What items should you avoid at an estate sale?

It’s important to remember that you’re not shopping at a store and anything you purchase is final sale. Check out the item you are considering with a cautious eye and make sure the size will fit in your space and there’s nothing wrong with it. (It’s important to plug any electronics in to make sure they work before purchasing.)

That said, most items you come across—especially decorative vintage pieces—are truly one-of-a-kind. If you pass something up, you may not find another. It’s also important to be respectful with offers. Any price you’d like to present is fair game, but be reasonable. If your offer is not accepted, you can ask to leave your contact information so they can reach out if they re-consider.

How to find estate sales in your area?

Facebook Marketplace (and local tag sale groups on the platform), Craigslist, EstateSales.org, and EstateSales.net are great resources to find when and where local sales are taking place. In addition, most companies have email lists so you can sign up and be notified of upcoming sales whenever you visit one.

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New to the Neighborhood? 8 Simple Tips to Help You Meet New People

Don’t Hesitate to Introduce Yourself

You’ll be dealing with a lot on moving day, but don’t underestimate the power of introducing yourself right away to your new neighbors. This shows you’re open to new friendships and avoids any misinterpretation that you’d rather be left alone. “My client, moving into a new neighborhood, introduced herself to the next-door neighbor while walking in the gate with a lamp in hand. The resulting ten-second interaction led to a friendship that’s lasted for years,” says Rhodes.

Go For a Walk

Who doesn’t love a relaxing walk around the neighborhood? In addition to fresh air and exercise, a simple walk is a low-effort way to meet the neighbors. “Neighbors meet and socialize outside – sidewalks and driveways are the true neighborhood hangouts,” says Rhodes. The walk allows for a natural meet-up, where you can happen upon a neighbor working in their yard or watching the kids play, rather than a forced interaction that can be awkward or intimidating.

Drop Off a Gift

Ideally, your new neighbors will stop by and welcome you to the community with a gift, but there’s no reason why you can’t be the gift-giver instead! “Small gifts help start conversations in a way a mere introduction doesn’t,” says Rhodes. “It can be a bag of cookies, plants you took from your previous garden, or a handwritten note with your name and telephone number on it.” A gift is a great way to make a connection, while also sharing a little about yourself and your hobbies.

Take Advantage of Community Resources

Your new community is more than just your direct neighbors. Attend an HOA meeting, check out the neighborhood Facebook group, visit the local farmer’s market, and look into community programs and events at the library. Chances are you’ll get involved in some fun activities and meet like-minded friends.

“A thirty-something-year-old client of mine chose a particular community because of the book clubs and children’s activities at the local library,” says Rhodes, “And within three months, she felt like she belonged there.”

Visit Local Retailers

Becoming a regular at a local restaurant or coffee shop can help you quickly feel more at home in a new area. And it’s even better to check out the local retailers before you move. “Looks can be deceiving – a perfectly designed residential area with manicured lawns can be practically deserted in reality,” says Rhodes. “Conversely, less impressive communities can still have excellent coffee shops, parks, and other community amenities that are actively used by residents.”

Get Involved at the School

If you have kids, one of the best ways to get familiar with the community is to get involved at the local schools. Join the PTO, volunteer in the classroom, or help with an upcoming dance or other event. Not only will you get to know the people interacting with your kids, it’s another opportunity to meet and befriend community members and create a sense of belonging.

Do Your Research

Of course the best way to settle into a new community is to ensure it’s a good fit to begin with! Before you purchase a house, do your own research on the neighborhood to ensure it has what you’re looking for. “Spend an afternoon walking the neighborhood, sitting in a park, and observing your surroundings,” says Rhodes, “Look for signs that the community is safe and friendly: does anyone smile at passers-by? Do people keep their front lawns well-groomed? Are families with children around? This will help you better understand whether or not the particular community would be suitable.”

Don’t Overthink It

Settling into a new neighborhood can be daunting and those first interactions might feel stilted or awkward; but your effort will be well worth it in the long run. “Community connections help prevent loneliness that’s becoming a major issue among people who moved to new homes and communities,” says Rhodes, “The knowledge that you’re surrounded by three or four people who know your name and will help you out in times of need can be priceless.”

About the Expert

• Sain Rhodes is a real estate professional at Clever Offers with experience in sales, operations, and leadership. A significant amount of her time is spent helping clients settle into their new neighborhoods after closing on a home sale. Sain combines deep industry knowledge with a passion for helping clients and teams succeed in today’s competitive market.

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The Homeowner’s Guide to Every Filter That Matters in Your House

Furnace Air Filters

The most important filter to maintain in your home is the air filter in your HVAC system. When clogged, it won’t properly catch dust and allergens. A neglected filter also restricts airflow to the furnace, causing it to work harder, which can raise your energy bill and lead to broken parts and overheating.

“We see hundreds of service calls every year that could have been prevented with regular filter changes,” says HVAC and plumbing specialist Aaron Adams. A good rule of thumb is to check your furnace filter every month or two, and replace it every three to six months.

Whole Home Humidifiers

If your HVAC system includes a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier, remember to address those filters, too. “They usually only need to be replaced once a year, right before the heating season for humidifiers and right before the cooling season for dehumidifiers,” says HVAC and vent cleaning specialist Ryan Osterkamp.

Air Conditioners

Regardless of whether you have central air, a ductless mini split or a window unit, check and clean your AC filters every four to six weeks. For central air and mini splits, Greenwood also recommends an annual professional clean-and-check. “Proper maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, maintains indoor air quality and ensures consistent comfort,” she says. Also, don’t forget to remove debris from the outdoor portion of AC systems.

Air Purifiers

Standalone air purifiers rely on clean filters to trap allergens, airborne particulates and harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Most models will alert you when its time to change or clean the filter, but you can also check filters visually every few months to see if they look dirty. Also, Greenwood recommends replacing them once a year, even if the warning light hasn’t yet illuminated.

Water Filters

Your home likely has a couple of water filters, including those in whole-home or under-sink filtration systems, as well as refrigerators with automatic ice-makers and water dispensers. For whole-home systems, “If the water from your main water supply can’t pass through the filter, you may find that the pressure in your showers and faucets drops off,” says Adams. Most water filters are DIY-able, but occasionally more complicated systems require the help of a professional plumber.

Faucets

If you notice uneven water flow or poor water pressure coming from your faucet, it’s likely that the small screen in your aerator is clogged. “An aerator’s main purpose is to control water flow, but they also catch debris and larger particles,” says Osterkamp.

To check and clean them, simply unscrew the cap on the end of the faucet and use a toothbrush or towel with vinegar to scrub away debris.

Clothes Dryers

Cleaning the dryer lint filter after every load ensures clothes dry quickly. It also keeps the machine from working too hard, which otherwise reduces its lifespan and introduces a fire risk. Unless you have a heat-pump model, you also need to clean the filter where the hot air gets released, which is either through a vent on the outside wall or into an indoor dryer vent box. Heat-pump dryers also usually have a secondary lint filter, which isn’t always obvious.

Washing Machines

If you have a front-load washing machine, chances are it has a drain pump filter. Look for it near the bottom front, behind a panel. Some older top-load washers also have filters along the top rim or inside the agitator.

“If your washing machine is regularly tackling dirty sportswear or pet fur, you’ll maximize its performance by cleaning the filter monthly,” says Adams. “For lighter use, you can probably get away with once a quarter.”

Dishwashers

Cleaning food and debris from the filter in your dishwasher is usually a quick and simple task. “If you’re running it more than once a day, you’ll keep bad smells away and have your dishes the cleanest with monthly filter cleanings,” says Adams. Otherwise, every month or two is ample. Look for the filter under the bottom rack, and clean it in the kitchen sink, using a soft brush and dish soap.

Septic Systems

Cleaning septic system filters is an unenviable task. Luckily, it’s one the pros can do during their routine maintenance checks (which you should schedule every three to five years). “Many people with septic systems don’t even realize this system has a filter, too,” says Adams. But, “A clogged septic filter can lead to a back up in the home that can cause thousands of dollars in damage.”

Exhaust Fans

The exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens don’t necessarily have filters, but it’s important to routinely clean them. Built up grease, dust and debris make them less effective at moving air, which can lead to humidity and mold issues, especially in the bathroom. It also makes them work harder, which can create a fire hazard.

Vacuum Cleaners

Not cleaning a vacuum filter is a sure way to overheat the motor and break the machine. But before that happens, you’ll be harming your home’s air quality, since clogged vacuums spread dust and allergens through the air. Many vacuums have at least a couple of filters, for larger particles and fine dust. Don’t forget to also check the hoses for blockages and the belts for strings and hair.

About the Experts

• Brooke Greenwood is director of product management for Carrier’s Residential Business, leading strategy and development for residential heating and air conditioning products.
• Ryan Osterkamp is owner of Quality Comfort Home Services, which offers HVAC, plumbing and vent cleaning services in southern Ohio and eastern Indiana.
• Aaron Adams is CEO of Aaron Services: Plumbing, Heating, Cooling in Georgia, where he loves to educate the public about all things plumbing and HVAC.

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This Father and Son Built a Deck in One Week–And It’s Stunning

In Family Handyman‘s series DIY Diaries, real DIYers share the projects they’re most proud of. They recount the full story—from laying out the initial plans and wrestling with frustrating setbacks to celebrating their proudest moments. These candid accounts reveal the true ins and outs of DIY, and will leave you with practical tips that’ll give you the confidence to conquer your next build.

This edition of DIY Diaries comes from within our very own community. Reader Cary Mark spoke with us about taking on a family project: a DIY deck. Mark self-describes as a DIYer who tries “to take on projects that I feel are not way over my head, but are still a bit outside my comfort zone.”

In this case, that project came about when Mark’s son reached out with a proposition. He and his wife had a large section of their yard covered by grey rock, “and they thought a deck would be better for entertaining and would be easier on bare feet.” After some back-and-forth brainstorming, Mark flew out for a week to help with the build.

The Project Stages

What was the inspiration for this project?

Mark’s goal was to “help my son build a really nice deck that he and his wife could enjoy.” This wasn’t Mark’s first deck project; that would be a different family project. Previously, “I built a ground-level deck with my brother on our childhood home with pressure-treated wood.” This time around, Mark “thought it would be fun using Trex and learning about the hardware used to attach the decking so there are no nails/screws showing on the top deck boards.”

Walk me through the stages of this DIY deck?

This project was fairly straightforward. After the design and details were hammered out, Mark’s son ordered the materials so that they arrived at the same time Mark did, and the two were able to get started right away.

The project moved quickly, too; it took “a total of two full days to complete the project, other than some minor finishing details.” Since the project came together so quickly, there weren’t any setbacks. Aside from waiting a bit for the final plugs to cover the exterior holes in the Trex boards, everything arrived on time and came together smoothly.

What’s one aspect of this project that intimidated you until you tried it?

While this project wasn’t particularly intimidating, it did involve learning a new technique. Mark says that “using hidden hardware to attach the top decking boards was new to both of us.  I had only used nails on the other deck that I built years earlier.”

Are there any budgeting hacks you used?

When it comes to saving money, building a deck with Trex board, Mark found that “if you purchase a wide Trex board for the perimeter, the price is much higher than using two narrower boards and putting them together.” A little creativity and some extra time planning can go a long way towards cutting costs!

Was there a specific moment during the project where you felt the most proud?

Mark is equally proud of the timeline and the quality of the final product. It can be easy to make a small mistake or wrong measurement that doesn’t show up until the end, but in the case of this DIY deck, “the miter joints on the corners were tight, and even the very last board that we installed at the end was still running parallel with all the other deck boards.” And because the deck came together so well and so quickly, “we were able to use the deck for a Fourth of July celebration the day after it was completed!”

If you could have a do-over on this, what would you change? 

That pride in craftsmanship doesn’t necessarily mean Mark wouldn’t change anything. Being a self-described perfectionist, Mark says, “I might have tried to make the very last board on the decking the same width as the other boards.” It’s not necessary, but it would have allowed for hidden hardware on the final deck board instead of the screw holes and matching plugs to cover them.

Advice to Aspiring DIYers

What’s one piece of advice you would give someone before they start a similar project?

Mark’s advice to DIYers looking to take on a project like this is to do their research first. If you “search out other people who have done this to get ideas and tips,” your planning process will go much more smoothly. Mark also says, “There are also a lot of good sources on the internet and in books.”

What project is next for you?  

Mark’s next project is also set to be a family one: “My son is talking about installing a couple of underground gutter downspouts with pop-ups in his yard on my next visit out to see him, since I have done this to our house.”

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