Expert Advice from Home Mechanics Pros
Home Services updates
Tips and wisdom from our team of home fixing experts.
August 22, 2024
Some problems with heating and cooling can be solved by making repairs to your furnace or air conditioning equipment. Others require full-scale replacement of the cranky systems. Sometimes the problem isn’t the furnace itself, but the insulation or ...
August 7, 2024
Can you relate to my friend Sarah?Sarah is a diligent homeowner who carefully maintains her beautiful Victorian-style house in the heart of Boston. Last Spring, her furnace started acting up. It would start, sputter, and then shut off. While ...
July 13, 2024
Unless you were on vacation, you probably noticed the extreme heat which dropped into the Boston area last week, especially in the Merrimack Valley. While the blast was 2024’s first foray into 90-degree days, it probably won’t be ...
June 22, 2024
Unless you were on vacation, you probably noticed the extreme heat which dropped into the Boston area last week, especially in the Merrimack Valley. While the blast was 2024’s first foray into 90-degree days, it probably won’t be ...
June 8, 2024
At the end of the day, any heating or cooling system needs to make your home base more comfortable. You want every room, for every person, at any time of day to be the right temperature. In an ...
May 24, 2024
At the end of the day, any heating or cooling system needs to make your home base more comfortable. You want every room, for every person, at any time of day to be the right temperature. In an ...
May 11, 2024
The hottest thing in HVAC, especially here in Massachusetts, is heat pumps. You are forgiven if you don’t really know what a heat pump is and you’re even more confused about why the words ductless and mini-split sometimes ...
April 25, 2024
Mini split heat pumps are revolutionizing home climate control with their efficiency and adaptability. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, mini splits offer the flexibility of being installed in various locations around the home, each bringing unique benefits. This flexibility ...
April 12, 2024
When it’s warm outside, air conditioning is what makes indoor life comfortable.If you’re here because you’re considering installing AC in your Boston-area home this summer — maybe you live in an older home which doesn’t have it, or ...
March 29, 2024
Many homeowners dream of transforming their attic into a usable living space. This could be a home office, a guest room, a playroom, or even a gym. However, before you start moving furniture, you'll need to consider how ...
March 10, 2024
Ductless mini-split heat pump is a mouthful, but it’s actually a pretty simple concept. A heat pump passively transfers heat from inside to outside, or vice versa — even when it’s cold outside — no ductwork required. The “mini” part ...
February 20, 2024
Feeling a little cramped in your house? Thinking of converting your garage into something more than storage for cars, bikes, and boxes? Then it’s probably time to start thinking about getting the temperature in your garage to a ...
January 12, 2024
When it comes to heating your home, there are more than a few options available. Two of the most common choices are heat pumps and furnaces. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to understand the ...
January 5, 2024
As the mercury drops, many homeowners turn their attention to keeping their living spaces warm and cozy. Cold temperatures force homeowners to evaluate the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of their home heating systems, and among the many heating options, ...
December 29, 2023
In the search for sustainable and efficient home heating solutions, heat pumps have gained significant attention. Their reputation for being twice as efficient as traditional heating systems isn't just a marketing claim; it's a fact backed by numerous ...
December 22, 2023
When it comes to heating and cooling your home, there are a variety of options available on the market. Two popular choices are mini splits and heat pumps. The terms are a bit confusing, because both of them ...
December 15, 2023
Heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular option for heating and cooling homes. But the big question on many people's minds is: are heat pumps worth it? Let's delve into how and why heat pumps can save money, ...
December 8, 2023
Mini split heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular as an efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool homes. But how exactly do they work? Mini-splits aren't terribly complicated, but they do operate differently from most traditional heating ...
November 24, 2023
If you're in the market for a sustainable and energy-efficient heating solution for your home, look no further than air-source heat pumps. These innovative devices utilize the ambient heat from the surrounding air to provide warmth during colder ...
November 17, 2023
In an era of rising energy costs and environmental awareness, finding efficient and cost-effective solutions for energy consumption is paramount. This article delves into the details of this program for renters, its benefits, and how it contributes to ...
November 10, 2023
Heat pumps represent a revolution in our home heating and cooling systems. But that raises an important question: What is a heat pump, and how does it work? These devices are gaining popularity due to their efficiency and versatility ...
October 21, 2023
The Stack Effect: A Brief OverviewThe Stack Effect is a natural phenomenon related to architecture and building construction. It occurs when a significant temperature difference exists between the interior and exterior of a building, resulting in air movement. ...
October 14, 2023
Heat pumps are devices that transfer heat energy from a source of heat to what is called a thermal reservoir. They work on the principle of absorbing heat from one place and transferring it to another. They can ...
October 6, 2023
Understanding the Factors and Considerations Home insulation is often an overlooked aspect of homeownership, but it plays a critical role in creating an energy-efficient and comfortable living environment. Properly insulated homes are not just a matter of comfort ...
September 29, 2023
Ductless mini-split heat pumps, often simply referred to as mini splits, are a versatile and efficient option for temperature control in homes and businesses. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, mini splits do not require extensive ductwork, making them an ...
September 25, 2023
Ductless mini splits have been growing in popularity due to their energy efficiency and versatility in climate control. A common question many homeowners have is whether mini splits can both heat and cool their homes. The answer is, ...
September 15, 2023
Asbestos insulation, commonly found in buildings constructed before the 1980s, has long been a cause for concern due to its health risks. Recognizing it in your attic or elsewhere in your home is crucial for maintaining a safe ...
September 8, 2023
Fiberglass insulation has become an increasingly common choice for homeowners and builders alike, renowned for its energy efficiency and affordable costs. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about fiberglass insulation, ...
September 1, 2023
While homeowners are typically aware of the role insulation plays in retaining heat during cold winter months, many are unaware of its significant benefits during the sweltering summer season.Just as insulation prevents heat from escaping in the winter, ...
August 25, 2023
Effective insulation installation in your home is important beyond mere comfort—it is a matter of energy efficiency and cost savings. Proper insulation works as a barrier, preventing the flow of heat and helping to maintain a consistent ...
August 18, 2023
Good insulation can make a huge difference in the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Whether you live in Massachusetts or elsewhere, choosing the right type of insulation is essential to getting maximum cost savings over time.Spray ...
August 11, 2023
When seeking estimates for professional insulation installation, understanding the factors that influence costs and the importance of evaluating quality materials will help you make informed decisions for your home. However, understanding what the insulation R-ratings mean can be ...
August 4, 2023
Insulating attics and crawl spaces in homes is an important part of energy efficiency and reducing energy costs. In Massachusetts, Mass Save® offers incentives to homeowners who take steps towards making their homes more energy-efficient, including adding insulation ...
July 25, 2023
Adding insulation to your home is one of the most effective ways to save money on heating and cooling costs, while also becoming more energy efficient. Not only can ceiling insulation help reduce energy bills, but it can ...
July 19, 2023
An electrical panel is an essential part of any home’s electrical system. It is the central hub for all of the electrical wiring and components that power your home. The electric panel controls, distributes, and regulates the electricity ...
July 11, 2023
Are you looking to increase the comfort of your Massachusetts home while saving money on heating and cooling bills? The answer may be insulation. Insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more energy ...
July 5, 2023
Circuit breakers are vital components of your home's electrical system, protecting you from potential hazards and electrical emergencies. However, dealing with constantly tripping breakers can be frustrating. It is crucial to understand why circuit breakers trip and the ...
June 28, 2023
Maintaining a well-functioning plumbing system is essential for the comfort and livability of your home. From pipes and toilets to sewer lines and faucets, each plumbing component has a limited lifespan. Understanding the average lifespan of these components ...
June 22, 2023
Homeowners in the Greater Boston area may not be aware of the potential dangers posed by backflow sewage in their plumbing systems. A backflow sewage valve is an important part of your home’s plumbing system and should be ...
June 16, 2023
Having a plumbing issue in your home is never fun, but it can be especially frustrating when you don’t even know what the problem is. One such mystery that Massachusetts homeowners often face is water heater leakage. If ...
June 7, 2023
Spring is a time of renewal and revival, but it can also be a dangerous season for homeowners in Boston. As the snow melts away and the days get longer, many people take advantage of the warm weather ...
May 31, 2023
Summer’s heat is on its way and if your air conditioner isn’t up for the challenge of keeping your home cool, it may be time for a replacement. But how do you know when it's really time? Understanding ...
May 24, 2023
As the summer months approach, many of us start to worry about our electricity bills. With the heat and humidity rising, we turn up the air conditioning or run fans to cool down our homes. But this can ...
May 17, 2023
The invention of smart plumbing technology has brought about a significant change in how homeowners and landlords handle plumbing problems through plumbing automation. By investing in this technology, whether you own a home or a rental property, you ...
May 10, 2023
Are you a Massachusetts homeowner, landlord, or renter looking for an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to keep your home warm in the winter? If so, you may have wondered about heat pumps.Heat pumps are increasingly popular among homeowners ...
May 3, 2023
Are you a landlord looking to improve the energy efficiency of your rental property? If so, you should be aware of Mass Save®’s rebate program for landlords. This program helps reduce the costs associated with installing energy-efficient appliances ...
April 26, 2023
Massachusetts residents, it's time to take advantage of Mass Save®! This unique energy-efficiency program offers homeowners many rebates, incentives and interest-free loans to lower your energy costs and help the government meet its climate change goals. Don't miss this ...
April 18, 2023
What are the ideal humidity levels in your home? The answer, as you might imagine, depends on the season. In this blog post, we'll break down the ideal humidity levels for both summer and winter so you can ...
April 12, 2023
What are the ideal humidity levels in your home? The answer, as you might imagine, depends on the season. In this blog post, we'll break down the ideal humidity levels for both summer and winter so you can ...
April 5, 2023
Overview Of HVAC Maintenance ContractsWhat is an HVAC Maintenance Contract?An HVAC maintenance contract is an agreement between a homeowner and a service provider for regular maintenance of their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The contract typically ...
March 29, 2023
No one likes to hear strange and unusual noises coming from their furnace. While it may be easy to ignore these sounds, they could indicate a bigger problem with your furnace or HVAC system. In this article we'll ...
March 8, 2023
Sewer backups are an unpleasant reality for many homeowners. They can cause damage to your home, and the resulting costs can be devastating. Unfortunately, sewer backups can occur without warning, which is why it’s important to be aware ...
March 1, 2023
Maintaining a septic tank is essential for homeowners who do not live on a city sewer line. Most homeowners often forget to include septic tank maintenance as a part of their regular home maintenance, mainly because your septic ...
February 21, 2023
Whether you’re looking to keep your loved ones more comfortable year-round, or your old window unit is in need of replacing and you want a longer-term heating and cooling solution, a ductless mini split unit might be the ...
February 9, 2023
There are several models of tankless water heaters on the market today. Just like the standard tank models, there are sizes and styles to fit just about every residential and commercial need. If you’re considering a tankless water ...
February 1, 2023
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
January 25, 2023
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
January 18, 2023
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
January 16, 2023
There are several models of tankless water heaters on the market today. Just like the standard tank models, there are sizes and styles to fit just about every residential and commercial need. If you’re considering a tankless water ...
January 11, 2023
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
January 4, 2023
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
December 27, 2022
Plumbing emergencies can strike anytime, and all you need is a good plumber to fix it right away. However, there are still some preventive measures you can take to avoid them. For you to better understand what kind ...
December 20, 2022
If you're in the market for a new water heater, you may have come across the term "tankless water heater." In recent years, these innovative systems have become more popular because they use less energy and can make ...
December 6, 2022
Updated: December 19, 2022 Holiday season is just around the corner and as you welcome guests into your home you want them to feel refreshed and at ease. What more would be the perfect time to prepare your ...
November 28, 2022
The increasing concern of air pollution level, both indoors and outdoors has made Home Dehumidifiers in Boston a necessity. And as per EPA, the indoor air quality can be 5 times as polluted as outdoor air. And that ...
November 21, 2022
Mini-split, portable, and window air conditioners are all good examples of ductless heat pumps that are used well in modern homes. They operate independently of a duct system. Compared to ducted systems, they are highly popular due to ...
November 14, 2022
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
November 8, 2022
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
October 27, 2022
Nobody likes to hear the sound of dripping water all day around their home. Leakages in the house can be annoying and, at times, even destructive. And the amount of money that these emergency plumbing services cost you ...
October 20, 2022
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
October 14, 2022
In recent years, LED lighting has become more popular because it uses less energy and lasts a long time. However, even the best LED lights will eventually need to be replaced. Knowing the signs that it's time to ...
October 6, 2022
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve the cooling in their homes. There is a lot of information out there about these systems, and as with ...
September 24, 2022
As a homeowner, part of making upgrades is determining whether they’re upgrades that can (or will) also add value to your home. The investment in a ductless mini-split air con could be an upgrade that your home can ...
September 12, 2022
People tend to overlook the basic plumbing necessities of the house. However, it is the most important aspect of maintaining your home’s plumbing system and keeping it intact.With every home improvement project comes the question of DIY. Can ...
September 2, 2022
At times, these warning signs may not be out and loud but rather more silent; hence it's more important to understand them carefully. Look out for these blowouts in the house and call the professionals to address the ...
August 25, 2022
Clogged toilets can be a major inconvenience and a source of stress, especially if you have multiple bathrooms in your house and more than one toilet gets clogged at a time. Not only are clogged toilets dirty, but ...
August 21, 2022
There is a lot of information out there about the Mass Save program and its benefit for residential customers. However, this leaves landlords and property owners wondering if they’ve got anything to gain. The short answer is yes, ...
August 14, 2022
Introduction: Water heaters are an important part of every house because they heat water for showers, baths, and other tasks around the house. However, with so many different types and models of water heaters available, it can be ...
August 7, 2022
Ductless mini-split systems are becoming more and more popular as people search for energy-efficient solutions to improve heating and cooling in their homes. There is a lot of conflicting information about ductless mini-split systems out there. They’re complicated ...
July 31, 2022
If you’re in the market for a new heat pump installation in Massachusetts, don’t just go install whatever system you can find. You’ll want to take the time to check out all the systems that qualify for the ...
July 30, 2022
Nothing happens when you turn on your faucet in search of hot water. The water is still cold. So you wait a few minutes, try again, and realize you're back where you started. Something is clearly wrong at ...
July 23, 2022
Upgrading to a new heating and/or cooling system usually starts with an inspection of the existing system.Right now, mini-split systems are growing in popularity in the U.S., and they have been a popular choice for eco-friendly heating and ...
July 17, 2022
Although it is rare, tank-based water heaters and boilers can (and do) explode, often with disastrous results. Water heaters and boilers are built to be safe and are found in millions of homes across the United States. Failsafe ...
July 10, 2022
There is a lot that goes into choosing the cooling solutions for your home. Some homeowners might not be familiar with the option of a ductless mini-split system, since central air and portable units are the most popular ...
June 12, 2022
As it gets warmer in the Boston area, you may be wondering how you can keep your ductless mini-split as efficient as possible. Since the heat is here to stay, at least for now, anyone who is living ...
June 5, 2022
Anyone who has researched ductless mini-split heat pumps knows that they are highly efficient for cooling and heating purposes. You might not know that they also offer a great way to keep the air in your home clean ...
May 29, 2022
It's becoming more common for Bostonians (and other residents of Massachusetts) to choose a ductless mini-split heat pump system for heating and cooling. There are many reasons to make the swap – such as quieter operation, more comfortable ...
May 22, 2022
If you're considering a ductless mini-split heat pump system to heat and cool your home, you're on the right track. Even when the temperature is exceptionally high, heat pumps cool efficiently to keep you and your family comfortable. ...
May 15, 2022
The popularity of the ductless mini-split heat pump system has increased for both residential homes and businesses. These systems create the option for more freedom in design and construction in newly built homes due to the lack of ...
March 30, 2022
The truth is that there are all sorts of ways to cool and heat your home. One of the lesser-known options is the mini-split heat pump. You might be wondering what makes it different from other choices on ...
March 20, 2022
Did you know up to 30% of the air that leaves your HVAC system never makes it to the areas you want to be heated? Leaks in the ducts are one of the most common sources of this ...
March 10, 2022
Curious about ductless mini-split systems? They can offer a lot of benefits. Improved comfort and lowered utility bills are just two of them. Of course, we understand that this technology is new for a lot of people and ...
March 1, 2022
Tired of seeing your utility bills go up every year? It’s time for something different. Adding a ductless mini-split system to your home can offer a lot of advantages, including reducing your utility costs. How does it work? ...
February 14, 2022
One of the main reasons people choose a ductless mini-split for heating and cooling is for its simple operation and installation. It doesn’t hurt that these units tend to be quiet and more environmentally friendly than other HVAC ...
January 23, 2022
With winter upon us, it’s time to ensure that your home is ready for the arrival of cold weather. Winterizing your home will help make certain that you’re able to keep your utility bills low while staying warm ...
January 13, 2022
If you’re looking for an alternative heating solution to keep your home warm all winter, you might have looked into a mini-split system. These systems are great because they allow you to heat only the rooms you plan ...
December 29, 2021
How a Ductless Mini-Split System Can Keep You Warm All Winter LongWinter is here. It's cold. And you might be scrambling to make sure that your current heating system is ready to take on the freezing cold. If ...
December 13, 2021
Central Heating vs. Ductless Mini-Split Systems, Which One is Best for Winter?In the cold of Winter, you’re going to want a heating system that will keep you and your family comfortable throughout the long winter. If you currently ...
July 13, 2021
Updated: Dec 19, 2022. Looking for a more efficient, faster way to cool your home? A ductless mini-split system could be exactly what you need. However, before you decide to invest, you'll need to know a few things, ...
June 20, 2021
Benefits of mini-splits are endless. But what are mini-split systems? As the name suggests, mini-split systems or aka ductless HVAC are heating & cooling solutions that require zero ductwork. An effective & scalable method of providing heating or ...
March 15, 2021
Plumbing emergencies are likely something you prefer to avoid thinking about. That’s understandable since they can be a bit messy. You can avoid dwelling on a potential plumbing emergency, but the more you know, the better prepared you’ll ...
February 7, 2021
Updated: Dec 19, 2022Freezing pipes are among the most common and expensive problems any homeowner faces come wintertime. If pipes freeze and break, it can cause a lot of water damage to your property and possessions. This disaster ...