Building engineer Ross Trethewey helps a homeowner upgrade his traditional electric tank water heater to a more energy-efficient solar-assisted split heat pump water heater. Ross and the installer discuss the benefits of hybrid heat pumps and the newer solar-assisted heat pumps before walking us through the installation process of a solar-assisted split system.
Next, host Kevin O’Connor meets with landscape contractor Jenn Nawada at a local greenhouse to talk about houseplant pests, like mealy bugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats. Jenn teaches Kevn what these pests do, how to get rid of them with some plant-safe options, and how to avoid them in the first place.
Finally, carpenter Nathan Gilbert takes us on a house call to help a homeowner gain better, safer access to his attic space with an attic ladder. Once Nathan can inspect the attic framing and utilities, the two get to work framing a new rough opening, cutting out the drywall, and installing a new attic ladder for safer, more stable access.
Heat Pump Water Heater for Cold Climates
While solar energy’s most common use might be turning the sun’s rays into usable electricity, that’s not its only use. We’re also able to heat things like a home’s water or a pool with this energy, reducing utility costs compared to traditional methods. Technology now exists to combine solar thermal with a heat pump to heat a home’s water, using passive energy for more than just electricity.
Where to find it?
- Installation and additional expertise provided by: New England Solar Hot Water, Inc.
- Solar-assisted split heat pump water heater installed: Smart Solar
How to Remove Houseplant Pests
Houseplant pests can take a relaxing hobby and turn it into a frustrating battle. Many homeowners panic when they notice a few bugs or the damage they cause, but early detection makes all the difference. With the right approach, most infestations can be controlled before serious damage occurs.
Where to find it?
At the first sign of infestation, isolate the plant from any other plants. Prune any highly infested parts of the plant before treating the plant.
Mealy Bug Remedies
- Alcohol and cotton rounds: Wipe away all visible bugs with 70% isopropyl alcohol on a cotton pad or swab. It can also be diluted 1:1 with water if the plant is sensitive. Test patch areas of the plant before applying alcohol—check results after 2 days.
- Alcohol and spray bottle: Use a spray bottle and use a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water- 1 part alcohol to 3 parts water and a few drops of castile soap. Ratio can vary depending on the type of plant. Rinse the plant with water after a few hours to remove the alcohol. Spray every day until the mealy bugs appear to be gone. Spray weekly for a couple of months after.
- Insecticidal soap
- Neem oil
Spider Mite Remedies
- Mist water or humidifier: Spider mites thrive in dry areas. Add humidity to the room, or mist the leaves with water.
- Castile soap and water: Use 1 tablespoon of castile soap to 1 quart of warm water and spray the entire plant. Repeat weekly for a month.
- Neem oil
- Deadbug Brew Ready-to-Use sprayer
Fungus Gnats
- Gnat sticky traps: For gnats or any other pests that fly like winged aphids, thrips, or whiteflies.
- Mosquito Bits: Used to kill fungus gnat larvae in the soil.
Plants and products provided by Weston Nurseries
How to Install an Attic Ladder
Whether it’s for mechanical equipment or extra storage, access to your attic space can be a game-changer. When a homeowner wanted to improve his attic access with a pull-down set of steps, he called Ask This Old House for help. Carpenter Nathan Gilbert arrived and installed a better option.
Where to find it
- Step ladder
- Tape measure
- Impact drill driver
- Hammer
- Plastic sheeting—to keep the other side of the hallway clean/clear of dust and wood while cutting into the ceiling.
- 2×4 wood—to create framing around the edges of the new ceiling opening.
- Reciprocating saw—to cut through the ceiling and make room for the pull-down ladder opening.
- Speed square—to ensure all cuts and framing adjustments are straight and properly aligned.
- Electric jigsaw
- Cordless oscillating multi-tool
- 3 ½ Colonial casing—Nathan installed 3 ½ colonial casing to trim out the ceiling opening and give the pull-down ladder a clean, finished look. Sourced from any lumber yard.
- Cordless finish nailer—to secure the casing neatly without visible fasteners.
Original Air Date: Jan 29, 2026, Season 24; Ep. 13, 23:42
Products and services
- Additional expertise: New England Solar Hot Water, Inc.
- Solar-assisted split heat pump water heater manufacturer: Smart Solar
- Plant expertise: Weston Nurseries
All other tools and materials provided by Home Depot or Amazon.
