Stories

A refrigerator works by moving heat out of the cabinet and releasing it into the surrounding room. Condenser coils play a central role in that process, but…

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released as uranium breaks down in soil, rock, and groundwater. Because it has no reliable smell, color, or…

A sticking interior door is usually a small household problem with a simple cause. The door may rub against the frame because of loose hinges, a shifted strike…

A programmable thermostat can reduce unnecessary heating and cooling by adjusting the temperature when the house is empty or everyone is asleep. Instead of…

A home fire extinguisher is a small piece of equipment that can slow or stop a contained fire before it spreads. The right choice depends on the materials most…

Freezing temperatures can turn a small amount of trapped water into a costly plumbing repair. When water freezes, it expands inside faucet bodies, supply…

Bathrooms naturally produce warm, humid air, making them one of the most likely rooms in a home to develop mildew and mold. Steam from showers, wet towels,…

White, chalky rings around a faucet, cloudy shower doors, and crusty deposits on a showerhead are common signs of hard water. These marks form when dissolved…

A heating and cooling system works hardest during periods of extreme weather, when a small airflow restriction or dirty component can increase energy use and…

A roof leak rarely announces its exact location. Water may enter through a small opening above the ceiling, travel along rafters or insulation, and appear…