Home Comfort

Long runtime can be normal during severe New Orleans heat. Check temperature control, humidity, airflow, and whether the pattern changed before assuming the AC is broken.

Compare the house with its own history, watch recovery after peak heat, and skip the universal 20-degree rule before deciding the system failed.

Closing interior doors can block the return air path central AC needs, causing pressure imbalances. Learn when it matters and what homeowners can check.

Closing supply vents in empty rooms can unbalance airflow and strain ductwork instead of saving energy. Learn what to check and when to call a pro.

Keep moisture control running, test the setting before departure, and use indoor humidity instead of trusting one universal vacation temperature.

Cold floors usually signal duct leaks, airflow gaps, or missing insulation rather than a flooring problem. Learn how to spot the pattern and when to call a pro.

Diagnose a cold New Orleans home in winter, from drafts and duct leaks to thermostat habits, and learn what's easy to check versus what needs a pro.

Attic ventilation helps an attic shed heat and moisture, but in a hot-humid climate like New Orleans it only works well alongside solid insulation and air sealing at the attic floor.

A reflective roof can reduce attic heat and cooling load, but the payoff depends on the existing roof, insulation, and attic design.

Radiant barriers can reduce attic heat gain, but local payoff depends on the roof, attic, insulation, ductwork, and installation.

Window film can cut glare and solar heat gain through sunny glass, but it will not fix air leakage or indoor humidity.

Duct insulation is the wrap or sleeve around supply and return ducts that limits heat gain or loss as conditioned air travels through unconditioned spaces.

Duct sealing means closing the gaps, holes, and disconnected joints in the metal or flexible tubing that carries heated and cooled air through your home.

Replacing old windows can improve comfort and modestly reduce energy use, but for most homes it isn't the first or most cost-effective fix.

Use humidity readings, AC runtime, and the location of the problem to decide whether a portable or whole-house dehumidifier is likely to help.

Spray foam can reduce air leakage, but product choice, placement, roof design, and moisture control determine whether it works well.

Storm windows can cut drafts and heat transfer while preserving original windows, but fit and installation determine the result.

A thermal camera can reveal temperature differences on a wall, ceiling, or window, but it does not measure insulation quality, moisture content, or air leakage directly.

Many older New Orleans homes have little wall insulation. Learn what to check before opening walls or choosing a retrofit.

A blower door test is a diagnostic procedure that measures how much air moves in and out of your home through gaps, cracks, and unsealed penetrations.