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.
HVAC units on the exterior of a house
Paige Bennett
•
Jan 31, 2025
Jan 31, 2025
A worn AC fan motor can cause your system to overheat. Budget for AC unit fan motor costs, including parts and labor, with this guide.
Air conditioner units on concrete slab outside the house
Paige Bennett
•
Feb 4, 2025
Feb 4, 2025
Here's what you can expect when getting an estimate for coolant leak repair costs. The cost 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.
cozy living room interior
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Feb 3, 2025
Feb 3, 2025
How long do HVAC systems last? See what impacts the lifespan of your unit and how you can get the most life out of your current system.
A woman checking the mini-split system’s air flow
Taylor Freitas
•
Feb 4, 2025
Feb 4, 2025
Review the disadvantages of mini-split systems as well as the benefits before buying. Review our breakdown of the mini-split pros and cons.
A woman adjusting the temperature of the room via a smart thermostat
Paige Bennett
•
Feb 4, 2025
Feb 4, 2025
When the temperature rises, you may wonder if it’s bad to keep turning the AC on and off. Find out the pros and cons of doing so and how to conserve energy.
Woman in the living room relaxing after work
Jamie Cattanach
•
Feb 4, 2025
Feb 4, 2025
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.
Need help finding the right pro?
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
View all articles
cozy living room interior
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  Feb 3, 2025
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last? Know When It’s Time to Replace
How long do HVAC systems last? See what impacts the lifespan of your unit and how you can get the most life out of your current system.
New air conditioner condenser unit outside of a home
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Feb 3, 2025
How to Clean AC Drain Lines in Under 10 Minutes
A clear AC drain line keeps your system at its best. Learn how to clean your AC drain line with household ingredients and tools you already have.
Woman adjusting thermostat installed in the living room
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Jan 31, 2025
9 Reasons Your AC Is Blowing Cold Air but the House Is Still Hot
Is your AC blowing cold air but your house is still hot? Learn the common causes, what to do, and when to call in a pro.
HVAC units on the exterior of a house
Paige Bennett  •  Jan 31, 2025
How Much Does an AC Unit Fan Motor Cost? [2025 Data]
A worn AC fan motor can cause your system to overheat. Budget for AC unit fan motor costs, including parts and labor, with this guide.
An air conditioner compressor installed outside the house
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Jan 31, 2025
How to Correct Oversized Air Conditioners: 7 Tips to Improve Efficiency
An oversized AC unit can cause indoor humidity and uneven temperatures. Learn how to correct an oversized air conditioner without replacing it.
Man removing ceiling air filter
Mary Beth Eastman  •  Jan 31, 2025
3 Reasons Your Air Conditioner Filter Is Wet and How to Fix It
If your air conditioner filter is wet, it could be an issue with the drain pan, condensate line, or evaporator coil. Here’s how to find and fix the problem.
window air conditioner in apartment
Taylor Freitas  •  Jan 31, 2025
The Best Time to Buy an HVAC System and Why
Summer, fall, winter, or spring—when is the best time to buy an air conditioner? Our guide provides insight on ideal times to save, your cooling needs, and various types of units.
Parents and children on sofa at home
Paige Bennett  •  Jan 31, 2025
Upgrading Your HVAC System? What to Consider
Take several factors into consideration when upgrading your HVAC system. Our guide will help you choose the right HVAC upgrade.
Industrial air conditioner. Air conditioning systems on the background of the house
Taylor Freitas  •  Jan 30, 2025
What Is Air Conditioner Drain Slime and How Can You Get Rid of It?
Air conditioner drain slime is an unsightly mess and can create problems within your HVAC system. Here’s how to get rid of it and keep it from returning.
HVAC unit in a snow covered backyard
Kelly Weimert  •  Jan 30, 2025
A Frozen AC Unit Won't Always Fix Itself—Here's How to Repair It
You don't always need a pro to step in, but a frozen AC unit will not fix itself. This guide teaches you how to troubleshoot an AC freeze so you can figure out whether to fix it yourself or hire a pro.
Contemporary condominium with air ducts and ceiling fan
Barbara Bellesi Zito  •  Jan 30, 2025
4 Types of Ductwork and How to Choose One
There are four main types of ductwork—but ducts can be made of different materials. Read on to learn about types of ducts and which is right for your home.
A mother laughing while preparing lunch with her son
Ginny Bartolone  •  Jan 30, 2025
How Much Does an AC Compressor Cost? [2025 Data]
New AC compressor costs depend on factors like the compressor’s size and type. Read on to learn more about ac compressor cost factors, in this guide.