Ask This Old House Season 15 Episode 6 HVAC Zoning; Plaster Patch

In episode six of season fifteen of Ask This Old House, the team tackles a couple of home improvement projects. The first segment features HVAC zoning, which involves dividing a home's heating and cooling system into different zones to improve energy efficiency and provide more comfortable temperatures in different areas of the house. Richard Trethewey explains the benefits of this system and demonstrates how to install it.

Using a multimeter, Richard identifies the wires connected to the existing thermostat and removes them. He then installs a new zoning panel and runs new wires to each of the existing thermostats to create two separate zones. This allows homeowners to set different temperatures for different areas of the home, providing greater comfort and energy savings.

The second project featured in the episode is plaster patching. Host Kevin O'Connor joins plaster expert Rory Brennan to repair a damaged plaster ceiling in an older home. Rory explains that plaster is a great material for ceilings because it's fire-resistant and provides better acoustics than drywall. However, over time, cracks and holes can appear in the plaster due to settling or moisture damage.

To repair the plaster, Rory uses a special mesh tape to reinforce the cracks and hold the plaster in place. He then layers on several coats of joint compound, sanding in between each layer to create a smooth surface. The finished result is a seamless repair that blends in with the rest of the ceiling.

Throughout the episode, the Ask This Old House team also provides helpful tips and tricks for homeowners, such as how to change a furnace filter and how to install a thermostatic mixing valve to prevent scalding in a shower.

Overall, season fifteen episode six of Ask This Old House is a must-watch for homeowners looking to improve their energy efficiency and take on DIY plaster repairs. The show provides valuable insight into these home improvement projects, making them accessible and achievable for viewers.