Ask This Old House Season 7 Episode 7 Reducing Heating Costs; Using a Whole House Fan

Reducing Heating Costs; Using a Whole House Fan, the seventh episode of season 7 of Ask This Old House, is an absolute must-watch for all homeowners who are looking to cut down on their heating bills. In this episode, the team of experts from Ask This Old House guide homeowners through practical, easy-to-implement strategies that can help them reduce their heating costs and make their homes more energy-efficient.

In the first segment of the episode, heating and plumbing expert Richard Trethewey visits a home in Randolph, Vermont, to help the homeowners, Dan and Heather, to reduce their heating costs. Richard notes that although the home is already well-insulated, there are a few loose windows and doors that are allowing cold air to enter. To address this issue, Richard suggests that the homeowners use a draft stopper to seal their windows and doors. He also recommends that they install some foam insulation on the rim joists in their attic to prevent cold air from coming through.

In the second segment of the episode, general contractor Tom Silva visits a home in Winchester, Massachusetts, to install a whole house fan. Tom notes that a whole house fan is a great way to reduce the need for air conditioning during the summer months. By pulling cold air through open windows and out through the attic, a whole house fan can reduce the temperature inside a home by several degrees. Tom walks the homeowners through the installation process, explaining how to properly mount the fan on the rafters and how to wire it up to a switch.

In the third and final segment of the episode, landscaping expert Roger Cook visits a home in Arlington, Massachusetts, to help the homeowners, Jim and Mary, create a backyard fire pit. Roger explains that a fire pit can be a great way to expand outdoor living space and add ambiance to a backyard. He walks the homeowners through the process of selecting the right materials and designing a fire pit that will fit seamlessly into their backyard.

Overall, Reducing Heating Costs; Using a Whole House Fan is a great episode for homeowners who are looking to save money on their heating bills and increase the energy efficiency of their homes. With practical tips and easy-to-follow instructions, the experts from Ask This Old House provide homeowners with the tools they need to make their homes more comfortable and more affordable to heat and cool.