Expert HVAC tips
Kraeutler and his co-host Leslie Segrete share these tips on getting the most out of your HVAC system:

Picking your HVAC system:

1. In addition to the main unit itself, you also need to consider the circulatory system. This would be the ducts or pipes that will be transporting the hot or cold air throughout the house. This can be especially tricky with additions. If you live in a region with cold winters, beware of running pipes over or through any unheated areas, as they may freeze in the winter. Ductwork operates best -- and is easiest to install -- when it runs in a straight line, as opposed to going around corners and turns. 2. Choose the highest efficiency furnace you can afford, provided you plan to be in the house long enough to make the investment worthwhile. 3. A commonly overlooked issue is maintenance. The system needs to be maintained regularly. Nowadays we use fossil fuels that are basically dirty fuels. Just like your car needs a regular tune-up, so does your HVAC system. Otherwise, your system will not only run inefficiently, it can also be dangerous. You should have your system inspected, cleaned and serviced (if needed) at least once a year.

Leave it to the pros
While Kraeutler and Segrete are big fans of homeowners doing their own fix-it projects whenever possible, they stress that HVAC installation, upgrades and repairs should be left to the professionals. Modern furnaces and central air conditioning units are computerized and complicated. Not to mention, you're dealing with risky elements like electricity and natural gas.

"This really isn't a do-it-yourself project," says Kraeutler. Obviously, the exception is room-sized air conditioners, which you can install yourself (although it helps to have someone else assist, as even the small units can be surprisingly heavy and tricky to position in the window).

Note: Make sure you have the proper electrical set-up for your air conditioner. A small unit can be plugged into most outlets, provided no other big appliances are sharing the same circuit. However, larger units may require their own dedicated circuit.