At Home, October 2022

At

Don’t let your winter be ruined by the chill and soaring bills associated with poorly maintained

Maintaining your furnace can be as simple as regularly changing the filter. In some cases, however, you may have to take a deeper look to figure out what’s going on.

FILTERREPLACEMENT

The filter plays a crucial role in maintaining air quality, as it removes things like dust, pollen, spores and pet dander. This can be particularly

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Newtechnologyprovides comfortandopportunityfor bigsavings.

The old mechanical version won’t preheat your home before you arrive home from work or errands — or adjust itself whileyou’reaway.

Smart thermostats, on the other hand, provide programming flexibility that helps bolster green initiatives, provide personalized comfort and lead to lower utilitybills.

AGROWINGTREND

The Energy Information Administration reports that sales of these high-tech thermostats have doubled in the last decade, as more people discover the flexibility they offer. Energy costs for

heatingandcoolingtypicallycomprisemore than 40% of home-energy costs, according to the EIA. Much of these costs, they noted, are related to air conditioning spaces when the home is unoccupied or while the homeowners are sleeping. New options allow us to program around this every-day waste of money. Energy Star recommends a setback of around eight degrees when the home is unoccupied in winter, and a fourdegreeadjustmentwhenasleep.

HOWTHEYWORK

The ultimate goal is a furnace that works less through the colder months, when costs can skyrocket as homeowners battle freezing temperatures. Electronic thermostats won’t simply have a dial or a buttonindicatingupordown.Therewillbe an array of programmable features to help customize your approach. Digital sensors measure room temps then alert the system

when the need arises, and they’re far more accurate than the mechanical versions. Whereas the old thermostats might only be accurate to within five degrees, these are typically within one. Geofencing technology even allows your smart thermostattosensewhenyou’renothome andautomaticallyadjusttemps.

SAVINGMONEY

Electronic thermostats allow you to control the temperatures within the home while you’re away, turning the heat down during work hours or vacation. You can even adjust the heat to accommodate

cooling temperatures as night turns into morning. When properly programmed, installing a smart thermostat can lead to savingsof10to30%ontheair-conditioning portion of your energy bill. Smart thermostats also help homeowners track usage and temperature data so you can make changes along the way. Download the smartphone application associated with your thermostat, and you’ll have control when you’re on the go. They’re particularly helpful for those who regularly travel or own a second home. Just make sure the thermostat is connected to a WiFi network.

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8EASYHOLIDAY CENTERPIECE IDEAS

MetroEditorial

Theholidayseasonisagreattimetomakeany homeabitmoremerryandbright.

Most individuals let their personalities show through their home decor, and holiday decorating is just as personal as decorating throughout the rest of the year.

The main living areas of a home get the most decorating attention, with a Christmas tree or menorah taking a prominent position in the front window. Garlands, candles and other accoutrements also may dress up spaces. However, when it comes to holiday hosting, attention also should be given to the dining table - which can benefit from a festive centerpiece.

Premade centerpieces are undeniably attractive, but adding a homespun touch can be a fun creative pursuit and become a family tradition. Explore these eight simple ideas to dress up your holiday table.

CENTERPIECE

on page 14

HOWDOES ROCKSALTWORK

We’re typically encouraged to keep these areas ice free by using rock salt, which provides traction to avoid bruises, fender benders and even death. But how does it work — and which product is designed for your particular situation? Making the right choice can provide an important protection for anyone hoping for a safer winter.

MELTINGICE

Applying salt to slippery surfaces has an immediate impact, since the salt-water mixture freezes at a lower point than water all by itself. The layers of ice quickly begin to melt, and with each dissolving layer, more salt water is formed — and eventually the ice can begin to clear entirely. That’s why rock salt has become the most common de-icer in use today. Still, there are important decisions to be made depending on where and how you’re using salt – in particular on concrete, around vegetation or in places where it might come in contact with human skin.

DIFFERENTPRODUCTS

Sodium chloride is the scientific name for rock salt, which quickly melts ice. Be aware, however, that it also releases lots of chloride as it dissolves, and that can damage metal or concrete. As effective as salt is, there are sometimes important side effects associated with it that could impact which product you choose. Deicers made of calcium chloride are harmful to your skin. Potassium chloride is recommended more often for those who have plants around an icy sidewalk, since it’s safe for vegetation and won’t irritate the skin. Another popular product for home use is magnesium chloride, which melts down to -13 degrees Fahrenheit but is safe for both concrete and plants.

HOWTOAPPLY

Simply tossing around a bunch of salt won’t ensure that your sidewalk or driveway is a slip-free zone. In order to get the best of these products, shovel as much snow and ice from the area as possible before applying salt. Ice will begin to melt away on contact. Shovel the area again, then reapply for best results.

Those who are most worried about pitting or other damage to sidewalks or driveways may choose alternative methods, like applying sand,cat litter, gravel, straw, wood chips or sawdust. They won’t necessarily melt the ice, but will sometimes provide an adequate level of traction for short periods of time.

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Slipperysidewalksanddrivewayscanleadtoaseriesof dangerouswinterrisks.

Anyplumbingthatisn’t protectedwithinheatedspaces isatriskinwinter.

Pipes inevitably lead outside, and that’s when they can be exposed to brutal conditions.

Depending on how cold your winters are, ice can build up inside one of these pipes. As the ice expands, it can create a leak or even burst. Wrapping your pipes can keep this kind of plumbing emergency fromhappening.

HOWTOPREPARE

Pipesaremostatriskoutside,buttheycan also be subject to suboptimal conditions inside your home during power outages or inunheatedspaceslikeattics,basementsor crawlspaces.Thiskindofmishapbecomes

even worse because leaking water may damage cabinets, floors and furniture. In both cases, pipes are typically protected withsheetsofinsulation,heatcablesorheat tape. Consult manufacturer’s instructions before installing. Also check unsealed areas for places where cold intrudes, since caulking or sealing those cracks can keep temperaturesatamoremanageablelevel.

Outdoor cut-off valves should be closed before the worst of winter arrives, and faucets drained. Store sprayers and hoses inside or in a covered area, if possible. Faucetcoversarerecommendedforadded protection.Whenwinterstormshit,turnon enough water for it to drip out of the faucet to help keep pipes from freezing. Open up cabinets under sinks to let warmer air circulateinside.

WHENITHAPPENS

Unfortunately, frozen pipes do happen. The most damaging incidents require big clean ups, and sometimes renovation. More often, however, frozen pipes are typically discovered when a faucet only producesatrickleofwater.Ifthishappens, turn the faucet all the way on, since flowing water will eventually help thaw the ice. Exposed piping can be thawed with a heating pad or warm towels – as long as the towels are regularly changed since they will lose heat.

Hair dryers may also be used, but keep the air moving over a foot to a foot and half of piping at a time, moving back and forth. Extreme focused heat can cause serious damage, and it’s also a fire hazard.

Similarly,neveruseanopenflametothaw a pipe. For enclosed piping, try turning the thermostat up in the home to help with the thawing process. In some cases, a section of wall may need to be exposed in order to employ the thawing methods described above.

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Protectingyourhomenowcan avoidacostlyinfestation.

As it gets colder, all manner of creatures willtrytogetinsidelookingforwarmth.

Rodents and insects then become more than just a nuisance. They can damage your home, and they may carry dangerous disease risks. There are a few simple steps, however, that can prevent these pests from makingthemselvesathome.

ACCESSPREVENTION

It doesn’t take much of a hole for the tiniest of pests to intrude. Insects can slip through tiny cracks. Even a mouse can slip through a space no larger than a dime, according to the National Pest Management Association. Check the perimeter of your home for any points of access, preferably before winter’s worst sets in. Pay special attention to holes made for every-day use like clothes dryer vents, cable or satellite wiring, and electrical, appliance or plumbing access. Pests may find small areas around the edges to sneak in, or take advantage of a hole that’s now become unused. Fill in any visible spaces withfoamorsilicone.Ifthereareplacesyou can’texamine,inparticularunderneaththe home,considercallingalocalprofessional.

KEEPITDRY

Moisture in a home attracts these pesky visitors. Insects rely on damp areas for survival, and water sources can also sustain other pests. Termites, for instance, typically begin an infestation by devouring wet wood then spread to other areas, eventually causing far more extensive damage to the home. Basements are a particularly attractive area, since they often have leaks and repairs are typically quite costly. Water issues under sinks or around toilets can typically be handled by the homeowner, but somejobsmightrequireprofessionalhelp.

CALLINGTHEPROS

The average handyman may not be able to handle larger plumbing projects, basement-wide seals and the installation of a sump pump in order to deal with consistent standing water or unwanted moisture. That’s when placing a call to a local contractor, plumber or renovation expert is in order. You may also consider calling an exterminator. They’ll begin by doing a home-wide inspection to determine which pests are present, how to deal with them – and how to make sure they don’t return. If you are having issues with a specific issue, like rodents, seek out pros who specialize in that area.

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MetroEditorial

Theholidayseasonisaspecial timeofyear.

Many factors combine to make the holiday season so unique and festive, and that includes all the effort people put into decoratingtheirhomes.

Much thought is giving to holiday lighting arrangements and which tree to buy, but it’s equally important to consider pets when decorating. Many common household pets are naturally curious, and that curiosity can make it difficult to decorate safely come the holiday season. But various pet-proofing strategies can ensure holiday decorations and displays aren’t compromised by fourleggedfriendsthisseason.

SECURETHECHRISTMASTREE

Much like other residents of the home, pets may be mesmerized by a glowing Christmas tree. Pets may sniff around the tree or investigate it closely, which can increase the chances that it tips over. That poses a significant safety hazard and underscores the importance of using a

sturdy stand. Fastening the tree to a wall, much like one might do with a television that isn’t mounted, adds a further layer of protection from tip-overs.

BLOCKOFFTHEBASE OFALIVETREE

Live trees need water to stay green and keep their needles throughout the season. That water could prove enticing to thirsty pets. Drinking water from a tree stand could increase the risk of the tree tipping over and the water could upset the stomach of pets if the tree was treated with pesticides prior to being brought home. When decorating with a live tree, make sure the base of the tree where the water will be is blocked off. A small fence around the tree could keep curious pets away. The room where the tree is located should be locked or inaccessible when pets are home alone.

INSPECTANDCONCEAL LIGHTWIRES

Wires can become frayed over time, and that could pique pets’ curiosity. Lighting wires should always be inspected prior to

decorating and frayed or damaged wires should be thrown away, even if it means replacing lights. If wires are still sturdy, conceal them along the base of the wall using a cable concealer, which prevents pets fromchewingonthem.

AVOIDLIGHTINGCANDLES

Candles should not be lit in homes with pets. Even candles on shelves that are seemingly beyond pets’ reach can be hazardous, as pets, especially cats, have a way of accessing spaces they seemingly shouldn’t be able to reach. Use electric candles in lieu of traditional ones.

SPEAKTOAVET

Pet owners can speak with their veterinarians before bringing poinsettias, holly and other seasonal plants and flowers into their homes. Some pets could suffer allergic reactions if they eat certain seasonal plants,soit’sbesttoerronthesideofcaution and speak to a vet before including live plants and flowers in decorative displays.

Decorating is part of the holiday season. Pet owners must exercise an extra bit of caution to keep their pets and homes safe when decorating during this special time of year.

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Plannowtoensurethatwhen fallweathersignalstheendof “outdoorliving,”yourindoor spacewillbeawelcoming respitefromthehustleand bustleofeverydaylife.

Walk around to inspect furniture, cabinets, use and lack of space, and decor in general.

Would new paint on wood furniture, cabinets, doors or trim be brighter (or more tranquil)? How about a new live edge or other accent table or new legs for an existing table? Do closets need a redo to add storage? Could the home office use shelving? Or maybe space exists for a family game area? The possibilitiesareendless,andWoodcraft has the tools, materials and supplies you need for successful projects, as well as a wealth of how-to insight and information.

Below are some tools and supplies

INDOOR

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INDOOR

from page 10

and how-to tips for assembly and building projects. There’s also some useful tips for coloring or recoloring wood furniture, cabinets and other pieceswithstainsandpaints.

Live Edge Timber Co. Rustic Maple Slabs and Rhombus Slab Legs come predrilled and ready for assembly to create furniture like the coffee table pictured here. Click https:// bit.ly/Rustic-Table-Build to view the assemblyprocess.

DIY Hairpin Legs in black and raw steel are an easy way to add a modern looktoatabletoporslab.

Festool’s T18 Cordless Drill Plus Set features a brushless EC-TEC motor and electronic torque setting for precise screw driving and drilling wood or steel. The set includes a belt clip, two 4.0 AH HighPower battery packs, Rapid Charger TCL 6 and SystainerSYS3M187.

The Kreg® Pocket-Hole Jig 520Pro makes joinery quick and easy. All you need are a drill/driver and screws. Watchthisvideohttps://bit.ly/Kreg-Jigs.

A Gyokucho Ryoba Razorsaw is a handygeneralpurposesawthathasrip teethononeedgeandcrosscutteethon theotherside.

Bore shelf pin holes on 32 mm spacing quickly and accurately using the 1/4” Kreg® Shelf Pin Jig or the 5 mm Kreg® Shelf Pin Jig. Both are compatible with face frame and frameless cabinets, with alignment windowsforaddedversatility.

For comfortable hand sanding, choose the Preppin’ Weapon Sanding Block Kit. Add power with the cordless SKIL® POWERCORE Brushless 20V Random Orbital Sander that can tackle refinishing wood furniture, cabinetry rehabandmore.

To remove paints and other coverings, Blue Bear® Soy Gel® Paint & UrethaneStripperisahandyhelper.

Krud Kutter® Prepaint Cleaner TSP Substitute cleans and deglosses surfaces so paint or stain will adhere bettertothesurfacebeingcovered.

If you are recoloring or finishing for the first time, GENERAL FINISHES® Gel Stains and GENERAL FINISHES

Milk Paint are easy to use. Gel Stains come in 15 colors, while Milk Paint is availablein33colors.

Follow GENERAL FINISHES’ instructions for prep, application, and topcoats for paints and stains to avoid any yellowing issues and to ensure the bestresultsovertime.

There are many other available topcoat products. When choosing and using a topcoat, follow the manufacturer’s directions closely to avoid disappointment over changes in colororotherundesirableresults.

GENERAL FINISHES® High Performance Water Based Topcoat offers the consumer-friendly characteristicsofapolyacrylicblend:it does not yellow with age and cleanup is easy with water. In addition, HP is stabilized with UV absorbers to maximize its performance and afford protection to the stains, paints, and woodbeneath.

GENERAL FINISHES® Oil Based Gel Topcoat is compatible with GENERAL FINISHESGelStains.

Use GENERAL FINISHES® WaterBasedStainBlockerWhitePrimerover anexistingfinish,rawwoodorMDFas a base coat for light colored GENERAL FINISHES Milk Paint, Chalk Style PaintandPigmentedPolys.

To apply paint or stain by hand, Redtree Matey® Brushes are a good choice. Use Synthetic Brushes for water-basedcoatingsandOnyxWhite China Bristle Brushes for solventbasedcoatings.

TheGVSElipseOV/P100Respirator is NIOSH-approved for paint vapors up to 5,000 parts per million, solvents, and Cyclohexene, as well as offering protection against many otherdangerousfumes.

EARLEX® Super Finish Max Sprayer provides the power and adjustability to spray oil- or water-based finishes suchasstains,enamels,polyurethane, varnish, latex paint, primers, milk paint,andmore.

WAGNER® Spray Shelters, small, medium and large, help reduce overspray.

Tolearnmoreabouttheseandother products, visit your local Woodcraft store, call (800) 535-4482 or visit www. woodcraft.com.

DON’TWAIT FORSPRING

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Wetendtothinkofwinterasa timewhengrowingends.

Sowing in the colder months can give your perennials and annuals a nice head start.

You’llbeabletoenjoyitallweeksearlier — and you don’t need any specialized equipment or growing lights. Instead, winter sowing can be refreshingly DIY.

WINTERSOWING

Containers can serve as cute little mini-greenhouses, allowing plants to take root before it’s warm enough to grow them conventionally. Make these winter-sowing containers out of old water or milk jugs, cutting them in half with about one-quarter still intact to create a hinge. Use an electric drill or craft knife to punch holes in the bottom for drainage purposes, and in the top so that moisture gets in. Sowing can then begin as early as January, depending on your location. Plant in airy soil like perlite or peat moss, or else a potting mixture with a similar texture. Wet and then drain the soil before proceeding. Once planted, tape the containers closed and place them outside in a place where they’ll get

southern exposure to the sun. The seeds will take root through winter and then sprout as temps warm.

WHATTOPLANT

Theidealcandidatesforwintersowing are hardy annuals and perennials which grow best in your zone. Hardy plants are able to withstand frost, can be planted outdoors in late fall or early winter, or in early spring when the evenings are still cool. Additional plant options for winter sowing are those with labels stating that they need prechilling or require stratification. If you want to sow other annuals, simply wait until closer to spring.

OTHERSMARTTIPS

Don’t forget to label everything so you’ll know what to look for once sprouts are expected to appear. Place it all out of reach of wild animals or curious pets. If condensation doesn’t begin to form insidethecontainers,addasmallamount of water inside around the edges and punch more holes in the top. Eventually, as the weather warms, you’ll open the lidsinordertoprovidetheplantswithfull sun exposure. If the tops are left on too long into spring, they will begin to create excessive heat which may kill the plants.

HOTTUBSAFETYGUIDELINES

MetroEditorial

Backyardshavelongsince transformedfromplacestogrill afewburgersandplaywiththe dogtohomeowners’private sanctuaries.

Pools and spas can help turn backyards into the oases modern homeownerscrave.

Soaking in a hot tub can ease aches and pains and help people overcome stress. According to the health and wellness resource Healthline, a

2012 study examined the effects of hydrotherapy on sleep quality and physical function for people with fibromyalgia. Hydrotherapy was shown to improve sleep quality along with other fibromyalgia symptoms. Hot tubs also may relieve pain by relaxing tense muscles,tendonsandjoints

Hot tubs can prolong the outdoor entertainingseasonbyservingasheated retreats when the weather turns chilly. Whenever hot tubs are in use, certain safetyprotocolsshouldbefollowed.

MAINTAINCLEANLINESS

Hot tub water must be kept sanitary through testing and a careful balance of chemicals that will inhibit the spread of bacteria and other microorganisms, indicates Valley Pool & Spa, which has locations across Pennsylvania. Those newtospamaintenanceshouldconsult with a spa expert on how often to test water. Inquire about which products can help to maintain peak sanitation.

BEHEALTHSMART

If you have a health condition or are pregnant, consult with a health care provider to determine if it is safe to use a hot tub. Individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure or diabetes should not enter a spa without a doctor’s approval. In addition, do not enter the water if you have an infection, open wound or illness. Wait until you aresymptom-freefor48hours,suggests the Canada-based company RnR Hot Tubs and Spas.

BEESPECIALLYCAREFUL

WITHCHILDREN

Children may want to enjoy the hot tub along with their parents and other adults. While neither the American Association of Pediatrics nor the Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued hot tub guidelines for youth, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that children under the age of 5 not use hot tubs. If children do want to use the hot tub, consider dialing back the water temperature, as hightemperaturescanleadtoheatstroke and loss of consciousness in young people, according to the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance. The PHTA recommends turning the thermostat down to 98 F and limiting children to five minutes at a time in the water. Play should never exceed15minutes.

EXERCISECAUTION

AROUNDWATER

Adults and children alike should be aware of the hazards of drowning. It is possibletodrowninahottub,eventhough it’s not as deep as a pool. Prevent access to the hot tub when it is unsupervised. Exercise caution when entering a hot tub while taking medications that cause drowsiness or while under the influence ofalcohol.

Hot tubs are coveted home amenities. When adding a hot tub to a property, homeowners should ensure safety guidelinesarefollowedatalltimes.

FROSTEDPINECONES

Take advantage of a crisp winter’s day to venture into a forest or park that is rich with evergreen trees. Gather pine cones from the forest floor and, if possible, a few evergreen boughs. Give the pine cones a touch of winter whimsy with a little faux snow in a can or even white paint. Nestle the boughs and pine cones into a widemouthed vase or bowl in the center of the table. Individual pine cones can later be turned into place cards for seating guests.

HOLIDAYTHANKS

Cut many strips of paper roughly 6 inches in length from various colored pieces of paper to match the holiday theme. When guests arrive, ask them to write a favorite holiday memory or two, or what they’re thankful for. Twirl the paper strips around a pencil to curl them, and then place the curlicues into a decorative bowl in the center of the table. Later in the evening, the host or hostess can read some of the sentiments.

MAGICALFOREST

Usegreenandsilverconicalpartyhatsto

turn a table or sideboard into a veritable evergreen forest. Arrange them on a blanket of faux snow or white confetti.

FRESHLYCUT

Select attractive flowers in vibrant holiday hues from a florist or even the supermarket floral section. Cut the stems and place them into an unusual display container, such as holiday themed mugs or a punch bowl.

GLASSBAUBLES

Who says ornaments should be exclusive to the tree? A crystal or glass cake stand can be transformed into an icy delight when topped with silver and clear glass ornaments.

BIRCHWOOD

The crisp white coloring of birch bark is right at home with holiday decor. Go stark with pieces of the cut wood in varying heightsintermingledwithwhitecandlesthat mimictheshapesandscaleofthewood.

FRUITANDVEGETABLES

If guests are coming over and the race is on for a fast centerpiece, look no further than the kitchen. Lemons, artichokes, pears, or pomegranates look festive in a bowl interspersed with some greenery and baby’s breath.

CORNUCOPIA

The horn of plenty can be customized to

any holiday. Purchase a horn in wicker or woven grapevine and fill with flowers, fruit and greenery, or even painted gourds or miniature pumpkins.

Holiday hosts and hostesses should not neglect the dining table when they decorate. Festive centerpieces can be handmadewithoutmucheffortonthepart of hosts.

in winter. Consider shifting your growing season to the time of year when lawn traffic slows, scorching afternoons fade and hungry birds migrate elsewhere. Dormant seeding from late fall through early spring can produce heartier grass, since the roots dig deeper into the soil in search of warmth and nutrition. Just be sure to apply the seed before frost or snowfall.

FERTILIZING

The best time to fertilize isn’t just before your annual Fourth of July cookout. It’s often in late fall or early winter, when these extra nutrients provide a sturdy foundation for spring. The kindyou’llneeddependsonthesoil andtheclimatewhereyoulive.Fertilizers are blended to exacting specification in order to match these particular needs, with regulated amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. (The

promotes growth, phosphorus bolsters root strength and potassium builds strength. If you’re unsure which formula would work best for your lawn, consider having it analyzed by a local landscaper.

MOWING

Trim grass to its lowest healthy length before winter, since higher blades can attract mice, snakes and other pests. Their nests and droppings may create lasting damage. Wilting grass can also restrict airflow, and the build-up of moisture may lead to assorted fungal diseases. It’s important, however, not to cut it down all at once, since the shock can stunt growth or even kill your grass. Instead, begin graduallyloweringyourgrasswitheach cycle over a period of a month or so. Find out the optimal length before you begin, since it varies depending on the variety. Grass that’s cut too short will have trouble absorbing nutrients and sunlight. Make sure your lawn is dry

FURNACE

important for those who suffer from asthma or allergies. Inexpensive filters will provide a basic level of protection, catching many of these irritants. More expensive versions of these filters will often do more for the most sensitive — but check the owner’s manual or ask a local professional before installing one. Some highefficiency filters may not be compatible with your unit.

Whichever filter you choose, remember that a dirty one doesn’t work properly. Your filter should be changed every three months, if not more often. Old filters impede airflow into the furnace, keeping it from operating at designed efficiency. Your home may not heat as well as it should, and costs could sharply rise as winter drags on.

BEONTHELOOKOUT

If your furnace blower is noisy, that usually indicates an issue with its electric motororblowerwheel.Listenforshrillsoundsthatfollowwhenmetalsurfacesgrind together, which could be caused when the blower wheel is loose. Loud humming sounds are typically related to an electrical issue. Contact a trained professional to have a look. In the meantime, identify and correct any sources of air loss in the home,sincethatmakestheunitworkharderthanitshould.LocalHVACcompanies provide home-energy audits which can offer more comprehensive details. Those with gas furnaces should make sure that the exhaust flue going outside is clear.

All of these systems should be regularly cleaned to guarantee that they’re running at optimal levels. Make sure registers are free of excess dust, debris and pet hair, since these things can move into the ductwork and reduce the unit’s efficiency.