Ask This Old House Season 18 Episode 6 Switch; Affordable Geothermal

In episode 6 of season 18 of Ask This Old House, titled "Switch; Affordable Geothermal," the team of experts takes on an intriguing problem and explores a unique solution to a common heating question.

Firstly, electrician Heath Eastman visits a homeowner in Boston who wants to install a smart light switch in their living room. The catch? The wiring is old and confusing, so they can't figure out which wires are which. Eastman talks through the process of identifying which wire is which before installing the smart switch.

Next, horticulturist Jenn Nawada visits a homeowner in Connecticut who wants to make the most of their lawn without breaking the bank. Nawada explores the different options that are within budget, including installing ring beds around trees, utilizing ground covers to reduce weeds, and planting native grasses. She also recommends some easy and affordable ways to maintain the lawn's general health.

Thirdly, general contractor Tom Silva visits a homeowner in Salem, Massachusetts who wants to retire their dated and noisy heating system for a more economical and sustainable geothermal option. Silva explains the geothermal process and how it continuously absorbs and reabsorbs energy from the earth for efficient heating and cooling. He also walks through the installation process, including drilling the ground loops deep into the earth and connecting the system to the home.

Lastly, host Kevin O'Connor visits a homeowner in Rhode Island who is taking on a unique challenge: installing underfloor heating. The homeowner is doing the installation as a DIY project and O'Connor walks them through the process of laying the pipes along with the necessary hardware for the system. He also explains the importance of using insulation to ensure the most efficient use of the underfloor heating system.

Overall, this episode of Ask This Old House delves into some fascinating methods for smarter, cheaper, and more environmentally conscious heating and home maintenance. The team brings their expertise to everyday homeowners to solve all sorts of home-related problems.