Heating and Cooling

Year-round comfort requires a fully functioning furnace and AC—ditto the ductwork and the insulation. Your heating, ventilation, and cooling systems work together to keep your home at a perfect temperature, so it’s essential to ensure all parts are up to the task. Browse our library of heating and cooling articles to maintain an energy-efficient home and source reliable pros you can trust with your indoor air quality.

man adjusting temperature thermostat
Photo: Hero Images / Adobe Stock
man adjusting temperature thermostat
Photo: Hero Images / Adobe Stock
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A crawl space with insulated ductwork
Mitchell Grant
•
Aug 12, 2024
Aug 12, 2024
Repairing ductwork in a crawl space is frustrating and difficult, which is reflected in the cost. Learn why limited access results in a premium cost beyond just a simple increase in labor hours.
woman on couch using remote to adjust air conditioner
Veronica Sparks
•
Jan 24, 2024
Jan 24, 2024
When your window AC isn’t cutting it, but central AC is too expensive, installing a new ductless mini-split AC may be the cooling solution you’re looking for. Find out what a mini-split costs and how to hire the right pros to get the job done.
A duct system in a crawl space
Deane Biermeier
•
Aug 2, 2024
Aug 2, 2024
The cost to replace ductwork in a crawl space depends on accessibility, size, and whether or not your crawl space requires additional work.
Mother tickling daughter
Kate Fann
•
Aug 19, 2024
Aug 19, 2024
Have you ever wondered about return air duct design and the role each part plays in HVAC operation? Learn everything you need to know about these HVAC components.
Woman adjusting the temperature on the thermostat of her house
Jenna Jonaitis
•
Mar 8, 2024
Mar 8, 2024
Strange AC smells can have many sources, all of which are problems. Learn to locate different AC issues by their scent and the steps to solve them for good.
Guest bedroom with baseboard heater
Taylor Freitas
•
Aug 30, 2024
Aug 30, 2024
Whether you’re replacing an old heater or upgrading to a new system, it helps to understand how to remove a baseboard heater. Get step-by-step instructions.
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family with dog sitting together
Taylor Freitas  •  Sep 9, 2024
What Is Forced-Air Heating? Get to Know This Common Home Heating System
Forced-air systems provide a reliable source of warmth for your home, but what is forced-air heating, exactly? Let’s break it down.
Young mother and daughter wrapped in blanket
Mizuki Hisaka  •  Sep 9, 2024
How to Turn Off a Radiator: A Complete Guide
During the cold months, you may keep your radiator on all the time. But if you need to turn it off, read this guide to learn how to turn off a radiator.
Young couple relaxing on sofa
Kate Fann  •  Sep 9, 2024
How to Remove Odor from Air Ducts for a Better Smelling Home
Do you detect a strange smell coming from your home’s ductwork? Learn how to remove odor from air ducts with this step-by-step guide.
Woman covered in a blanket sitting by the window
Paige Bennett  •  Sep 9, 2024
Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water? 12 Common Culprits
Furnace condensation is natural, but leaks bring up cause for concern. Find out why your furnace is leaking water and what to do next to fix it.
Parents sitting on a couch playing with their baby son
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  Sep 9, 2024
Can I Run My Furnace Without a Filter?
Are you running your furnace without a filter? It could damage your furnace and affect your health. Click here to learn why.
Woman changing water container of dehumidifier at home
Alison Kasch  •  Sep 9, 2024
Humidifier vs. Dehumidifier: Which One Do You Need?
If your home’s humidity levels are outside the ideal range, you might need a humidifier vs. dehumidifier. Find out the key differences between the two.
Two men talking in a home’s garage
Breyden Kellam  •  Sep 9, 2024
How to Heat a Garage for the Winter: 7 Must-Know Tips
For those who spend time in their garage, heating is a winter essential. Consider these helpful tips on how to heat a garage.
Heat pump in a new building area
Michelle Nati  •  Sep 9, 2024
Is a Heat Pump Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Alternatives
While costly to install, heat pumps are an efficient and eco-friendly way to heat and cool your home, no matter the season.
A large dehumidifier in the living room
Melissa Graham  •  Sep 9, 2024
Does a Dehumidifier Cool a Room?
A cool room is a comfortable one, but a dehumidifier can’t always guarantee lower temperatures. Read on to decide if you need a dehumidifier and how they can benefit your home.
Woman sitting on the couch using her laptop
Veronica Sparks  •  Sep 6, 2024
How Much Does an Oil Furnace Cost? [2024 Data]
Explore factors influencing oil furnace replacement cost, additional expenses, and savings tips. Make an informed decision for a cozy home.
Woman in the living room relaxing after work
Jamie Cattanach  •  Sep 6, 2024
What Is a Fresh Air Intake in HVAC Systems?
A fresh air intake HVAC system helps clean the air in your home and provides a source of oxygen for your furnace. Learn how an intake works in this guide.
A HVAC system in the backyard of a house
Taylor Freitas  •  Sep 6, 2024
Does a Home Warranty Cover HVAC Repairs?
If you’re considering buying a home warranty policy, you might be wondering: Does home warranty cover HVAC repairs or replacements? Read on to find out.