Systems

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

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    Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

    Don't panic! Learn what might be causing this troubling issue, what you can do about it and when to call...


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    Why Did My Furnace Pilot Light Go Out and How Do I Relight It?

    Learn all about your furnace pilot light — where it is, what it does, and how to troubleshoot the most...


    7 Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

    Don't ignore this silent killer.


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    Fluorescent Lights: What Are They and How Do They Work?

    How much do you know about these workhorses of the lighting industry?


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    How To Change a Dirty Furnace Filter

    Changing a furnace filter regularly will improve your heating in the winter and your air conditioning in the summer.


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    What Is a Furnace Tune-Up?

    Some HVAC pros prefer to call it routine maintenance. Whatever you call a tune-up, it keeps your furnace in top...


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    How To Turn on a Water Heater and Adjust Its Temperature

    Let’s dig into how to turn on a water heater, whether gas or electric, and when it might be time...


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    5 Types of Furnaces

    Here's the lowdown on the most common types of furnaces found in U.S. homes, and how to identify them.

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    How Electrical Code Requirements for Kitchen Islands Have Changed

    The 2023 National Electrical Code brought changes to rules regarding electrical receptacle outlets on kitchen islands. Learn about them from...


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    Is It Bad to Block a Return Air Vent?

    Discover the importance of an open return air vent to your home's forced air HVAC system.


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    Wire Gauge Sizes: What You Need To Know

    Wire gauge is a measure of wire thickness. Don't let the fact that the gauge number goes up as thickness...


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    How To Use Task Lighting Effectively

    Task lighting brightens your work and reduces eye strain. Here's how DIYers can make best use of it in the...


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    Is Solid-State Electricity the Future of Home Electricity?

    One of the largest infrastructures on the planet might be getting an overhaul. Here's how solid-state electricity could impact your...


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    How To Fix Kinks in PEX Pipes

    Got a plumbing job ahead? PEX pipes make things easier, and learning the various ways to fix kinks is a...


    7 Best Garage Air Conditioners of 2024

    Discover the best garage air conditioning solutions to fit your needs, including portable, window-mount, mini-split and swamp cooler systems.


    The 10 Best Garage Fan Picks to Keep You Cool During Hot Months

    When temps rise from steamy to sweltering, staying cool is essential. Add one of these best garage fan options to...


    10 Ways to Filter Water

    Whether for an emergency kit, a home system or an on-the-go solution, here are the easiest and best ways to...

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    How to Solder Wires

    Here's is how to solder wires to achieve a durable and long-lasting connection.


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    Homeowner’s Guide to Electrical Grounding and How It Works

    You know electrical grounding is important. What does it actually do?


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    How To Test GFCI Outlets

    GFCIs save lives. Learn how to test your GFCIs two ways, with these instructions.


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    7 Types of Water Shutoff Valves

    A plumbing system needs a main shutoff valve as well as valves for branch lines and fixtures. Here's a rundown...


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    How a Home Energy Audit Can Save You Money

    A home energy audit can help you identify where you are losing energy and what you can do to stop...


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    How Do Septic Tanks Work?

    Just knowing the ins and outs of a septic system can save you a lot of money in the long...

    How to Use a Surge Protector for Electronic Devices

    Learn how to use surge protectors for any electronic device, whether it's a digital clock, a computer, a dishwasher or...


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    When Was Air Conditioning Invented?

    For many of us, air conditioning is essential to cool off in summer heat. But where did air conditioning come...


    Lasko Tower Fan: Best Smart Choice for Your Smart Home (We Tried It!)

    A new smart fan that can be controlled through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or an app? The Lasko fan tower...


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    Does a Dehumidifier Cool a Room?

    It's hot outside! Will a dehumidifier cool you down? An expert gives us the deets on dehumidifiers.


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    Drawing Your Own Electrical Plans

    Electrical plans are a roadmap to project success. And, yes — you can draw your own! Here's what you need...


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    What You Need to Know About Romex Wiring

    Wondering where to use Romex cable in your home? How about where you can't? We've got the details below.