Systems

Making sure you know everything there is to know about the electrical, heating and cooling systems in your home.

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    12 Tips for Easier Home Electrical Wiring

    Learn tips, tricks and techniques from two master electricians with decades of experience.


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    Choosing Your Best Heating System for the House

    Find the best heating system for your home by learning what's available and how they compare.


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    What to Know Before Replacing Your Furnace

    No one wants to replace a furnace. Before it's that time, learn from someone else's experience and possibly save money...


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    How to Run an Outdoor Electrical Wire

    The easiest way to bring electricity to a shed, garden or lamppost


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    Oil Furnace Buying Guide

    Are you considering purchasing an oil furnace? Let us help you make an informed decision.


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    Gas Furnace Buying Guide

    Are you considering buying a gas furnace? We can help you make an informed decision.


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    What Are Furnace Energy Efficiency Ratings?

    Here's an overview of what a furnace efficiency rating is, why it matters, and how you can check yours.


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    How to Clean Baseboard Heaters

    Cleaning your baseboard heaters is a snap for any DIYer.

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    What is the Correct Way to Install Electrical Outlets: Ground Up or Down?

    You may see electrical outlets with the ground facing up or down. Do you know which is right?


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    16 Ways to Warm Up a Cold Room That Actually Work

    Learn how to warm up a room without using a plug-in electric heater. Consider built-in radiant floor or ceiling heating,...


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    How to Buy a New Boiler

    Need a new boiler to heat your home? Discover what makes boilers unique and learn how to find the best...


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    How to Install a Gas Fireplace

    Complete DIY instructions for installing a direct-vent gas fireplace


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    What You Need to Know About Your Septic System’s Drainfield

    Knowing how to care for and maintain your drainfield will keep your entire septic system running properly.


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    Common National Electric Code Violations

    Many problems stem from new additions to the National Electrical Code (NEC), while some common mistakes violate codes that...


    How to Connect Gas Pipe Lines

    Use the correct fittings for a safe gas hook-up


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    What’s the Ideal Temperature to Set Your Thermostat in Winter?

    Stop the thermostat wars in your home with this definitive look at the optimal temperature to set your thermostat in...


    Things You Should Never Do With Power Strips

    Our lives depend on electricity, and we never seem to have enough places to plug in. Use power strips safely...

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    Electric Furnace Buying Guide

    In the market for a new heating system? When you consider all of your options, here's what you need to...


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    Guide to Gas Fireplace Inserts

    Tired of dealing with the constant mess and maintenance of your wood-burning fireplace? Consider whether a gas fireplace insert is...


    How to Be a Good HVAC System Owner

    So, you bought — or perhaps inherited — an...


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    What You Need to Know About Installing a Furnace in Your Attic

    If you're looking to increase livable space in your home, consider moving the furnace into the attic. This installation is...


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    How DIY Furnace Maintenance Can Save a Repair Bill

    Save money and increase your heating system's efficiency and comfort by following these simple steps to keep your furnace in...


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    How to Fix Christmas Lights

    Squeeze another season out of your strings of lights!

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    DIY Water Heater Testing and Repair

    A one-hour DIY repair that will save you the cost of calling the plumber


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    Covering Your A/C Condenser Unit in Winter

    Add a simple plywood cover for winter protection.


    5 Electrical Projects DIYers Should Not Take On

    We know our readers love to DIY, but when it comes to electrical work there are some projects better left...


    How to Use Cheap Electrical Testers and Voltage Detectors

    Every DIYer should have these three inexpensive electrical testing devices. They're handy even when you aren't doing electrical work.


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    Can I Put Essential Oils in My Humidifier?

    Colder temperatures mean it's time to dust off and plug in your humidifier. If you're thinking about adding essential oils,...


    The Best Space Heater for Every Room

    For extra warmth where you need it most, our guide will help you find the best space heater to keep...