This Old House Hour Season 16 Episode 8 Duct Dynasty

This Old House Hour season 16 episode 8, "Duct Dynasty," follows Tom Silva and his team as they work with homeowners in New England to restore and renovate old homes. In this episode, Tom and his team tackle a complicated problem with the HVAC system in a 19th-century farmhouse.

The homeowners are experiencing inconsistent heating and cooling throughout the house, and the culprit is traced back to the ductwork. The ducts are old and inefficient, with leaks and poor insulation causing energy waste and discomfort in the home. Tom and his team need to replace and upgrade the ductwork while still maintaining the historic character of the farmhouse.

The team starts by removing the old ducts, which involves cutting through walls and floors to access them. They then install new ducts, carefully routing them through the walls and floors to minimize disruption to the home's historic features. Along the way, they add insulation to improve energy efficiency and seal off any leaks that were causing air loss.

Meanwhile, landscape contractor Roger Cook and host Kevin O'Connor assist a family in creating an outdoor space that feels like an extension of their indoor living area. The project involves building a stone patio and a fire pit, planting trees and shrubs for privacy, and adding outdoor lighting for ambiance. The result is a cozy and inviting outdoor space that the family can enjoy year-round.

Throughout the episode, the team also discusses strategies for improving indoor air quality and reducing allergens in the home. They demonstrate how to properly seal and insulate the home's envelope, and recommend upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace and air filters for maximum comfort and health benefits.

As with all episodes of This Old House Hour, "Duct Dynasty" provides viewers with an inside look at the process of restoring and renovating historic homes. Tom and his team offer valuable tips and advice for homeowners looking to improve the efficiency, comfort, and beauty of their living spaces, while still preserving the unique character and charm of older homes.