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.
family spending time together at home
Sep 5, 2024
Sep 5, 2024
Time for a new oil tank? If your HVAC system isn’t performing like it should, you need to know the factors that impact oil tank replacement cost.
warm feet on a tile floor by a baseboard heater
Aug 23, 2024
Aug 23, 2024
Installing baseboard heaters can keep you toasty. Learn about what impacts baseboard heating costs, from installation to maintenance.
Air conditioner units on concrete slab outside the house
Feb 21, 2024
Feb 21, 2024
The cost to fix a coolant leak in your air conditioner can vary based on the detection method used, the source of the leak, and the amount of damage that needs to be repaired in the aftermath.
HVAC unit outside of home
Sep 16, 2024
Sep 16, 2024
Your HVAC technician has probably asked you if you want an HVAC maintenance plan before. But what are they, and are they really worth it? Find out here.
A spacious living room with a vent above the fireplace
Aug 5, 2024
Aug 5, 2024
Can you paint ductwork? Most exposed ducts can be painted and become part of your decor. Learn which types of paint to use and how to prepare.
Couple sitting on the floor enjoying free time
Mar 20, 2024
Mar 20, 2024
These annual and seasonal steps will keep your heating and cooling system ready for any changes throughout the year. Follow these tips for best results.
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Worker insulating house attic
What is insulation? This behind-the-scenes home fixture will maintain comfortable temperatures in your home no matter the season. It’ll lower energy bills, to boot.
An attic with radiant barrier
Is a radiant barrier worth it for your home? It depends on the climate where you live, installation factors, and the cost of keeping your home cool.
A nice attic bedroom
The insulation R-value can make all the difference in keeping your home insulated, but it depends on where you live. Keep reading to learn about R-values.
Home with plaster walls
Learning how to insulate plaster walls can help improve your home's energy efficiency. However, there are crucial cautions to consider before attempting.
Living room decorated in Scandinavian style
Foam insulation can be injected which saves homeowners time and overall cost when compared to other insulation types. Learn what makes up injection foam insulation costs—and where you can save.
A worker is putting a sealant on the vapor barrier joints.
How does a radiant barrier work? This alternative insulation is effective at cooling a home, but its unique mechanism won’t provide the same heating benefits.
Cozy living room with gas fireplace
If your home’s temperature is uncomfortable or your energy bill is spiking, you should check your insulation. We'll help you find out if you should replace it.
woman laying down on the couch
Use this DIY checklist for insulation repair to make your living space more comfortable and reduce your heating and cooling bills in the process.
Father and daughter sitting on the couch relaxing at home
Knowing how to calculate R-value for different insulating materials will ensure you pick the right one for your home, no matter your local climate.
Teen girl reading e-book in her bed
Face vs. unfaced insulation can make all the difference in keeping your home insulated for decades. Here’s what you need to know about which one to choose.
 A radiant barrier in an attic
What is a radiant barrier? This reflective building material is designed to reduce heat transfer and save you money on energy costs.
A worker using a blown-in insulation machine to insulate an attic
Learn the key factors that influence the cost of renting a blown-in insulation machine.