Heating & Cooling
How to Upgrade to a Heat Pump System
Energy-saving, climate-friendly, and relatively easy to retrofit, air-source heat pumps are now a viable option for heating and cooling, even in cold climates. Here’s how to put them to work in your home
How to Create a House HVAC Plan
Richard Trethewey demonstrates heat loss and gain to design a balanced HVAC system.
5 Best Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners (2023 Guide)
Looking for the best ductless mini-split air conditioner? Our guide covers today’s top models and what to look for when shopping.
Why is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?
Most people will agree that central heat is one of the more essential modern conveniences—so when it stops working, your home can get uncomfortable fast. If you have a forced hot air system that has suddenly started blowing cold air, there are a few things that you can try to get the heat going before you call the furnace repair person.
How to Install a Fireplace Insert
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner supplement their living room heat by installing a wood-burning insert in their existing fireplace.
How to Weatherstrip a Wood Door
Enhancing the energy efficiency of an old, drafty door with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva
Fixing Ice Dams on a Roof
Home technology expert Ross Trethewey helps a homeowner solve an ice dam issue with smart insulation practices that also improve the home’s efficiency.
Why is Furnace Maintenance Important?
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey teaches host Kevin O’Connor about furnaces and why it’s important to maintain them properly.
HVAC Air Balancing: What You Should Know
If you’re struggling with maintaining—or even attaining—a consistent temperature throughout your house, your HVAC system may be out of balance. This guide will explain the basics of air balancing, including how DIYers can tackle the job and when they should call a professional to sort out their home’s heating and air conditioning system.
5 Best Ozone Generators (2023 Guide)
Ozone generators create a more breathable environment for you and your family. They also have the ability to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the best ozone generators on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you.
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Winter Home Maintenance Tasks
Keep your home in tip top shape by tackling these maintenance tasks this season.
All About Radiant Floor Heating
Whether it’s warming a large addition or a cozy bathroom, radiant heat underfoot invisibly ups the comfort level. Here’s the lowdown on some of today’s most popular systems.
How to Replace a Tank-Type Water Heater
In this DIY Smarts segment, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner be proactive about their home maintenance by replacing their existing tank-type water heater before it fails.
How to Get Your Furnace Ready for Winter
Your furnace may need some TLC before starting it up this winter. Here are some tips on what to do to get your furnace prepped before the cold months arrive.
The 5 Best Humidifiers (2023 Review)
Humidifiers add moisture to dry air. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best humidifiers on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you and your home. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
3 Reasons Water Heaters Fail
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey gives host Kevin O’Connor an inside look at why a water heater fails.
How to Cool a Garage
While avoiding the garage during the heat of the day is obviously an option, some folks find their happiness or make their money in their garages or workshops. But is suffering through oppressive heat the only way to stay productive all summer? Is there no hope for summertime garage projects? These smart, practical, and effective tips for how to cool a garage will help.
Understanding Air Flow in Your House
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and home technology expert Ross Trethewey explain everything you need to know about balancing airflow within a home.
What Does Propane Tank Installation Cost? (2022 Guide)
To heat your home or power your appliances with propane, you’ll need to install a large storage tank on your property. Here’s how much that will cost to set up.
Best Space Heaters (2023 Guide)
Space heaters come in many sizes and can help lower your electricity bill. In this review, we look at some of today's best space heaters.
Best Hygrometers (2023 Guide)
Hygrometers help you stay aware of humidity and other environmental conditions within your home. Learn about the best hygrometers with our comprehensive guide.
Best Furnace Filters (2023 Guide)
In this round-up and comprehensive buying guide, we take a look at some of the best furnace filters on the market.
All About Smart Thermostats
Home technology expert Ross Trethewey explains everything there is to know about modern smart thermostats.
Recommended Thermostat Settings for Every Appliance in Your Home
If you’re concerned about balancing energy consumption and comfort or convenience, this guide will help you choose the best thermostat settings for every device in your home.
How to Save Money on Heating Bills
Watch as This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and home technology expert Ross Trethewey teach some cost-effective ways to save money on heating this winter.
The 5 Best Thermostats (2023 Review)
Thermostats are essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best thermostats on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
Future House | Understanding Heat Pumps
Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Tretheway explains everything you need to know about heat pumps.
How Much Does HVAC Installation Cost?
In this guide, we break down the cost of installing a new heating or cooling system and explain the different types of HVAC installations.
The Best Firewood to Heat Your Home
Learn why one wood is better than another, the differences between hardwood and softwood, and safety tips for your wood-burning appliance.
All About Water Heaters
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey walks through all the various options available to homeowners for purchasing or renting a water heater.
5 Best Portable Air Conditioners (2023 Guide)
Portable air conditioners act as supplemental cooling to make you more comfortable when it’s hot and humid outside. In this guide, we take a look at the best portable air conditioners on the market, talk about various types and features, and provide answers to your frequently asked questions.
How to Install a Window AC Unit
Window air conditioning units may seem intimidating, but they’re actually quite easy to install. With a bit of background knowledge, the right tools, and a guide to show the way, cooler temperatures are on the horizon—even when it’s boiling outside.