Heating and cooling older homes
Don't be scared of an older heating or cooling system. Systems can be inspected or retrofit to maintain the integrity of your older home.
Ceiling fans
A cooling breeze can reduce your need for air conditioning.There are some important things to know about purchasing and installing ceiling fans.
In this video: Installing a ceiling fan is a DIY project if you have some knowledge of electrical wiring. If you're unsure, consult or hire a professional.
What to look for
Ceiling fans usually have a direct-drive motor or a friction-drive motor. Direct-drive models have fewer moving parts, run more quietly and working more efficiently than friction-drive.They're also more expensive, but the added comfort and quiet is worth the extra cost. Both types usually offer one to three fan speeds, and operate with pull-chains or wall switches, or a combination of both.
The more money you spend, the more features you get, including decorative wood blades, variable-speed motors, remote controls and dimmable lights.
A ceiling fan with a 36- or 38-inch blade span is adequate for a room measuring 10x10 feet or less. For larger rooms, look for a 48-, 52- or 54-inch diameter fan.
Fans should be installed at least seven feet above the floor. If you have lower ceilings, look for a "ceiling hugger" instead of a "down-mount" model.
Do it yourself or hire a pro?
If you're replacing an existing ceiling fan with a new model, you can do it yourself if you have previous experience with wiring.If you're installing a ceiling fan from scratch or the room isn't wired for one, call a certified electrician or home handyman to do it for you.
More from this category
Fix leaky ductwork
Leaks in your ductwork mean the air you've paid to heat or cool is not getting where it needs to go. Find out how to diagnose and fix this common problem.
Options for heating your home
Shop and compare when choosing a new heating system. Look for the yellow Energy Guide label to see how one unit stacks up against another.
Maintaining your furnace
It's important to keep this big piece of equipment in tip-top shape in order for it to operate at peak efficiency.
Maintaining your fireplace
Proper maintenance of your fireplace is important to make sure it's working efficiently and safely.
Geothermal
Capturing the heat from the earth can save you big money on your energy bills. Learn how geothermal systems work.
Space heating and furnace myths
There are lots of "tips" out there that may not be true or safe. Find out how to separate facts from fiction.
Getting a new fireplace
Is it time to upgrade your fireplace? Learn how you can improve your home's efficiency with the right fireplace.
A/C tune up
Learn how professionals tune up your air conditioner and get some tips on how you can keep it running at peak performance.