No one wants their A/C to shut down in the middle of a heat wave in Massachusetts. If it does, you'll probably find the temperatures unbearable. Making sure your A/C is running efficiently will prevent the problem and save you money in the long run. But what if you suddenly start hearing A/C noises?

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your A/C system and the compressor the lifeblood is the heart. To understand the difference between R-22 and R-410A, you have to realize that your A/C system works by cycling the refrigerant through several heat exchanges, much like your refrigerator does.

/Your house is more than a home; it's also an energy usage system. Individual components affect the functioning of the entire system. If attic insulation is insufficient or if doors, windows or ductwork isn't thoroughly sealed, the system is compromised, and your family's comfort is then less than it could be while your energy expense is more than it should be.

Maintaining home humidity during the summer and winter seasons is important for a comfortable environment. A house that's too dry in the winter can experience separating hardwood floor seams. The dry air may also cause electric shock when a person touches metal objects. A home that's too humid may support the build up of mold, mildew and other pathogens.

Window treatments can add to the beauty and value of your home. Not only that, but they can make your home more energy-efficient as well. Installing energy-efficient window treatments is a great way to make your home more comfortable and save money at the same time. Combined with efficient heating and air conditioning, you can greatly reduce the costs of heating and cooling your home.

What causes an A/C to freeze up usually lies in maintenance issues, like keeping the air filter clean and having the system routinely cleaned and adjusted by an HVAC contractor. It's important to address a frozen A/C quickly, since it can drive up energy costs, stop cooling, create water damage when the frost melts, and harm the system's compressor. 

Home heating and cooling expenses are always on the rise, especially in eastern Massachusetts, where weather changes vary from frigid cold to blazing heat. Money, comfort and energy efficiency are always priorities with homeowners, so the advantages of a ductless heat pump should be taken into serious consideration.

It's no surprise that A/Cs see the most use in the summer, but this has the downside of increasing energy bills. When you're seeking summer energy savings, it's important to have accurate knowledge. To go along with these tips for efficient A/C operation, here are five common myths which risk increasing your energy costs.

Everyone loves summer, but here in Massachusetts, the seasonal heat can be uncomfortable for many. We always take steps to ensure our homes are ready for the harsh winter weather, but it’s equally important to seal and insulate the home envelope for summer, and this is especially true for older, multi-level homes.

An air filter is an easy aspect to miss when you are figuring out your basic home maintenance needs. However there are many reasons why this should be made a priority. By understanding the effects of a dirty air filter you will see why you need to change it regularly.