Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps
January 5

Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Ductless, mini-split-system heat pumps (mini splits) make good retrofit add-ons to houses with “non-ducted” heating systems, such as hydronic (hot water heat), radiant panels, and… Read More

Types of Cooling Systems
January 5

Types of Cooling Systems

Central Air Conditioners Central air conditioners circulate cool air through a system of supply and return ducts. Supply ducts and registers (i.e., openings in the… Read More

Understanding Air Conditioning
January 5

Understanding Air Conditioning

Energy-Efficient Air Conditioning Are you considering buying a new air conditioner? Or, are you dissatisfied with the operation of your current air conditioner? Are you… Read More

How to Maintain Your Home’s Heating & Cooling Equipment to Save Energy
January 5

How to Maintain Your Home’s Heating & Cooling Equipment to Save Energy

Just like your favorite car, your heating and cooling system needs a regular trip to the mechanic to keep it purring. Without regular servicing, heating… Read More

Limitations when Replacing Existing Heating Systems
January 5

Limitations when Replacing Existing Heating Systems

In an existing home, it’s important to consider the impacts of replacing your current heating system with a different type of heating system. The easiest… Read More

Sizing Heating and Cooling Systems
January 5

Sizing Heating and Cooling Systems

Older space conditioning systems (more than 10 years old) are often unreliable and much less efficient than a modern systems. When it’s time for a… Read More

Maintenance Checklist
January 5

Maintenance Checklist

Maintain your equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Keep your cooling and heating system at peak performance by having a contractor do annual… Read More

Appliance Service Plans: Read the Fine Print
January 5

Appliance Service Plans: Read the Fine Print

Many utility companies offer home appliance service plans that provide repair coverage on furnaces, central air conditioners, water heaters, clothes washers and dryers, range/ovens, and… Read More

How BTUs and EERs Work
January 5

How BTUs and EERs Work

Most air conditioners have their capacity rated in BTUs or British Thermal Units. A BTU is, generally, the amount of heat required to raise the… Read More

Decibel (dB) Comparisons
January 5

Decibel (dB) Comparisons

Common Sounds This decibel (dBA) table compares some common sounds and shows how they rank in potential harm to hearing. In many industries, workers are… Read More