Why Is My Thermostat Not Reaching the Set Temperature?
When your thermostat says one thing but your home feels different, frustration builds quickly—especially during a Minnesota cold snap. Fortunately, most causes are simple to diagnose with a little structure. A thermostat that won’t reach the set temperature usually points to airflow restrictions, dirty filters, bad placement, wiring or sensor issues, or equipment troubles; […]
Does Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Help or Hurt Efficiency?
Closing supply registers in empty rooms seems like an easy way to save energy, but airflow and pressure are more complex than they look. In climate-challenged Minnesota, small changes in ducts can have big effects on comfort and costs. Closing vents in unused rooms usually hurts efficiency by raising static pressure, increasing leakage at […]
Can I Install a New Thermostat Myself?
Yes, you can install a new thermostat yourself if the system is low‑voltage, the wiring matches the new device, and you follow the manufacturer’s instructions; however, call a licensed HVAC pro if wiring is unclear, high‑voltage is present, or you need new control wires. A modern thermostat can improve comfort and save energy, and many […]
Why Does My Furnace Keep Turning Off and On?
Short cycling—when a furnace turns off and on repeatedly—wastes energy, stresses parts, and usually means something simple needs attention. Homeowners in Minnesota see this most when temperatures swing or filters clog. Most furnaces short cycle because of restricted airflow (dirty filter), an overheating safety shut‑off, a mis-sized system, or thermostat/pressure switch issues. Replacing the filter […]
Can I Run My Furnace Without a Filter?
No, you should not run your furnace without an air filter because it allows dirt and debris to accumulate on the furnace’s internal components, which can lead to reduced efficiency, premature wear and tear, costly repairs, and poor indoor air quality. Running a furnace without a filter leads to poor air quality, increased dust, and […]
Can a Low Battery in a Thermostat Affect Your Furnace?
Yes, a low battery in a thermostat can significantly affect your furnace’s performance, preventing it from turning on, running erratically, or failing to maintain your desired temperature by disrupting the signals sent from the thermostat to the furnace’s control board. Changing the batteries in your thermostat is a crucial maintenance task to ensure your heating […]
Can a Water Heater Leak Gas and What Should You Do?
Can a water heater leak gas is a serious safety concern for homeowners. This guide explains how to recognize hazards quickly, verify the source, and take the right steps to protect your home and family. Yes. Water heaters can leak gas from loose flare fittings, worn flex connectors, failed control valves, or damaged piping. If […]
Can a Water Heater Cause Low Water Pressure?
Can a water heater cause low water pressure is a frequent homeowner question. Yes. A hot water heater can lower apparent water pressure when sediment, scale, constricted shutoff valves, faulty mixing valves, or undersized lines restrict flow—especially on hot fixtures.
Can a Furnace Leak Carbon Monoxide Into Your Home?
Yes, a furnace can leak carbon monoxide if there’s a crack in the heat exchanger, damage to the flue pipes, or faulty ductwork, which allows the toxic gas to enter your home instead of being vented outside.
What Does IPS Stand For in Plumbing?
Curious about labeling on valves and fittings—what does ips stand for in plumbing? Here’s a clear, inspector-friendly explanation with practical checks you can use on site. IPS stands for Iron Pipe Size. In plumbing, IPS refers to the legacy nominal sizing system used for steel and iron pipe, and it’s commonly associated with NPT (tapered) […]