Systems

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

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    6 Things To Know Before You Upgrade Your Thermostat

    Modern thermostats offer more functions than older ones. You can often swap a new one for an old one, but...


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    How To Use an Old Honeywell Thermostat

    Your old Honeywell thermostat is a workhorse with some nifty features, especially if it's programmable. Here's some help figuring out...


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    How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

    Water heaters don't last as long as most people think. Learn the telltale signs that you're due for a new...


    These Are the 3 Safest Space Heaters, According to a Licensed Electrician

    This time of year, space heater use goes way up—and so do fires. Know what you're buying and stay safe...


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    How To Install a Sump Pump

    Flooding can ruin your basement and everything in it, but there's a solution. Learn how to install a sump pump...


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    12 Home Office Lighting Ideas

    Create a work environment that's beautiful and functional, too, with inspiration taken from these lighting ideas.


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    How To Clean a Tankless Water Heater

    Tankless water heaters are great, but mineral buildup can kill their efficiency fast. Here's how to clean a tankless water...


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    Why Is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

    Is your furnace blowing cold air? Here are some troubleshooting tips and simple DIY repairs for the most common causes...

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    Rewiring a House: How To Hire a Pro

    Rewiring a house is a major undertaking. An electrical inspector offers tips on hiring the right pro for the...


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    How To Clean a Furnace Ignitor

    Have a gas furnace that won't light? Carbon deposits on the ignitor could be why. Learn how to clean a...


    We Tested the 4 Best Smart Thermostats to Control Your Temperature and Electric Bill

    Our team tested a gaggle of smart thermostats--and we found our four favorites on the market.


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    8 Simple Fixes if Your Heater Is Not Working

    If you suspect furnace problems, try these eight furnace fixes you can do yourself before calling a pro.


    How to Light a Living Room With No Overhead Lighting

    No overhead lighting? No problem. Check out these sparkling ideas on how to light a living room with...


    Best Infrared Space Heaters in 2024 That Are Portable And Energy Efficient

    These infrared space heaters are well-suited for indoor and outdoor use. They also start to work right away—no warm-up time...


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    LED Christmas Lights Are Best. Here’s Why.

    When it comes to holiday lights, there can be only one choice.


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    What Is a Heat Pump System?

    A heat pump doesn't generate heat; it transfers it from one place to another. It's an appliance with a bright...


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    Why Are My Christmas Lights Not Working?

    The good news is that there are only a few things can go wrong with holiday lights, and they're relatively...

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    8 Best Basement Lighting Ideas for a Remodel

    Brighten a dark basement with these lighting ideas for every budget.


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    What to Know About Upgrading Your Light Fixtures

    Old light fixtures can be real eye-catchers, but their incandescent bulbs aren't energy efficient. Here's how to fix that.


    Hallway Lighting and Fixtures Ideas for Welcoming Spaces

    Find out how to make your hallway brighter and more welcoming with these stylish lighting ideas.


    How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?

    Sump pumps reliably last from seven to 10 years, but often much longer with maintenance. Be sure to monitor your...


    How To Test Sump Pumps

    Don't be surprised by a sump pump failure. Here's an easy tutorial on how to test your sump pump to...


    How Much Is a Sump Pump?

    By itself, a sump pump isn't a major investment, costing about as much as a good juicer. The bulk of...

    How To Buy a Heat Pump in 2023

    New energy incentives make this a great time to install or upgrade a heat pump.


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    A Guide To Pipe Fittings and How To Use Them

    If you're doing a plumbing installation or repair, you'll need to buy pipe and pipe fittings. Here's some help figuring...


    How To Choose Between a Heat Pump vs. a Furnace

    Federal incentives and state regulations weigh heavily in favor of heat pumps these days, but a heat pump may not...


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    What Are Infrared Space Heaters and How Do They Work?

    Is an infrared space heater right for your space? We've talked to some experts to summarize what they are, how...


    Underground Wiring: A Pro Answers Your Key Questions

    Here are some important things you need to know about underground wiring so it's safe and provides many years of...


    Why Are Heating Bills Increasing This Winter?

    Natural gas, electricity, propane, heating oil. Whatever fuel you use, heating bills are going up this winter. Here's what the...