Global Green Solutions Team

When to replace ductwork: brittle or crushed runs, insulation falling off, many leaks, rooms that never get air, or a new system that needs new sizes.

Common AC and HVAC problems and signs you need repair: warm air, weak airflow, water leaks, odd noises and short cycling.

Repair or replace a furnace? Age over 15 years, a cracked heat exchanger and frequent repairs point to replacement; a small fix on a sound furnace is a repair.

Furnace running but not heating? Check the thermostat fan setting and filter; a flame sensor, ignitor or limit switch may be shutting the burners off.

How long do AC units last? ENERGY STAR suggests weighing replacement after 10 years; regular maintenance keeps a system running well longer.

The best heating system for a home in Los Angeles: a heat pump for mild winters and one system for heat and cooling, or a gas furnace with ducts.

When to replace attic insulation: hot upstairs rooms, long AC run times, visible joists, and damp, stained or flattened insulation.

Is air duct cleaning worth it? The EPA says consider it for visible mold, vermin, or ducts clogged with dust. How often and the signs to watch.

DIY vs professional air duct cleaning: a homeowner can clean registers and change filters; the ducts themselves need equipment that exhausts dust outdoors.

The best attic insulation materials: blown-in cellulose or fiberglass, batts, rigid foam and spray foam, compared by fit, R-value and cost drivers.

Do smart thermostats save money? The DOE estimates up to 10% a year from a 7-10°F setback for 8 hours a day; a smart thermostat automates it.

Types of HVAC systems: central split AC with a furnace, heat pumps, ductless mini splits and packaged units. How they differ and where each fits.