Mold and rot are dangers that can develop anywhere in your house. But the bathroom, which generally contains more moisture than any other room in the house, is a particularly ripe target. Mold and rot can cause health problems and do serious damage to your house, so it’s best to take steps to prevent them. The first signs of mold are darkened wood, water stains on your ceilings and water marks around bath vents. When you detect mold in your bathroom, you should address it quickly, ...
If you’re thinking of replacing your traditional hot water heating tank, you’ve probably heard about tankless heaters. But is it right for you? Here’s a rundown of what you can expect. Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand heaters, will provide hot water only as needed. Because the water is heated as it’s used, they don’t produce the energy loss associated with traditional heaters, which must keep the water hot until used. They can ...
You may have heard of a variety of potential services or additions you can install in your HVAC system or elsewhere in your home that will boost air quality. Here are some of the available options and their pros and cons. WHOLE HOUSE HUMIDIFIER Average cost: $530 Where you might need it: Particularly dry areas Humidifiers, which keep your air moisture balanced, come in a variety of models. Steam units are usually the best to use in a residential ...
In most parts of the nation, your heater is one of the most important appliances of your home for the next few months. A blown-out heater can leave your family literally in the cold for hours or days during the most frigid part of the year. Here are some tips to stay warm and toasty this winter: Get an HVAC inspection This usually costs about $100. Ideally, you’ll have done this already. But if not, it’s not too late to call an HVAC company ...
In recent years, the ubiquitous home thermostat has evolved a great deal, from traditional dials and needles to electronic screens to models that can predict your HVAC needs. While basic models work well for some, more advanced models offer major benefits in terms of both comfort and energy efficiency. Here’s a rundown of the major types and what you can expect to pay for them. MECHANICAL NON-PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS Mechanical thermostats are the lowest costing option, ...