Did you update your bathroom? Revamp your kitchen? Install new flooring? We would love to share your project, big or small! Send us what you did and our editorial team will consider it for our “My Fresh Home” series, which will be published every Thursday. Check out our submission instructions at the bottom of the page.

Today we want to share a story from TPG reader Krissy, who built her own she-shed in her backyard:

The over-sized shed in our backyard that was made over into a home office.

My husband would likely die if he read that headline, especially because he is using our new she-shed too. We should really call it a “We-shed.” This is the story of how we turned our over-sized shed into an amazing work space for two!

Why do we need a she-shed?

This project all came about when we found out we were expecting our third child.  While absolutely thrilled with this news, it meant that our 4 bedroom home no longer included a home office. During my maternity leave, my husband took a new job and his commute changed from taking the train into the city to sitting on our bed working from his computer. I also work from home and have been doing so for about two years. When maternity leave was up, and I needed to reclaim the bedroom as my office, we thought that this house might not work for us anymore. 

We considered a couple of options for our home office. This included everything from buying a new house-not in the budget, to renting an expensive office space, to converting our garage into an office. Then one day I said what about our shed?  When we bought our house two years ago, it came with a huge shed used by the previous owner as a woodworking space. We literally only used it to store a lawn mower and a canoe, so we thought this may be a viable option. The shed already had electricity, and we thought it would only need heat and a WiFi signal to be all set. If only it were that easy!

Manland in the fall.

Prior to this, my husband had initially claimed this shed and its land as his own and called it ‘Manland.’ Since the kids play area took over our basement, he had no man cave space to claim for himself. So he moved to the wood near our shed and built a fire pit area. He strung some lights, added some Adirondack chairs and made a really cozy little campground dubbed “Manland.” This space stayed Manland for about 2 months and now has been turned into our We-Shed…with a cozy fire pit for s’mores breaks.

Laying the plans to build a she-shed

The minimal interior of the shed allowed us to determine its viability as an office pretty easily.

Deciding to convert our shed into a home office was the easy part; figuring out IF we could convert it took a lot more work.  Living in the Northeast, our weather conditions played a big role on the development of our shed. If you live in San Diego or any other comfortable 74 degree location, you may be able to skip the insulation and heating/cooling portion of this process. Here in Pittsburgh, PA, we knew insulation and heat was a must. 

Creating a comfortable space

We added insulation to the walls, ceiling and beneath the floor boards to keep the external elements outside.

To determine if the shed could be a warm and comfortable space in the dead of winter, we hired a contractor to come out and check out our space. It was easy to figure out what we needed to do because the space was just framing, no drywall or really anything but the bare bones of a structure. The contractor recommended that we add insulation to the walls and ceiling to protect from the exterior elements. He also ripped up the plywood floorboards and added a water barrier to protect the floors from the bare ground below. This would ensure warmth but also serve as a moisture barrier. On top of the barrier he laid more insulation before adding new floor boards.

It’s starting to come together. The shiplap paneling is getting installed.

Because a shed is more exposed to the elements, we opted for wood paneling walls vs. sheets of drywall. This would also help to protect against moisture. Now I’m sure when you think wood paneling you are thinking your grandfather’s 1970’s television den, but paneling has come a long way people! Perhaps you have been living under a rock and aren’t familiar with the term “shiplap,” but thanks to the influence of Joanna Gaines we fell in love with the white shiplap look. So that is exactly what we selected.  (PS taking three kids to Home Depot to pick out your She-Shed materials isn’t exactly an enjoyable way to spend a morning.)

Three kids in Home Depot, not a relaxing way to spend a Saturday.

At Home Depot we also selected our floor covering. Now if you thought paneling was dated, wait for this term… VINYL. I promise, this was a great option for our space and like wood paneling it’s evolved a lot since that 1980’s kitchen look we all remember. The vinyl comes on a big roll 12 ft wide and cut to whatever length you need.  Our space is an 11 foot box, so this meant we wouldn’t have any seems in our floor, another way to protect from moisture. It was also super affordable.

Vinyl has come a long way since my childhood 1980’s kitchen.

Power, internet and flipping the switch

We really thought that insulating and making the shed feel comfortable would be the extent of our work. When our contractor came out to inspect what we were working with, however, we learned that we needed to add some additional elements. I mentioned earlier that there was electricity to the shed, but the voltage was too low to power all of our office equipment and we needed to beef up our panel with the necessary voltage.  Unfortunately, the conduit that ran the power from our house to the shed was too small to hold the additional wire. This meant we needed to retrench our yard.

Thanks to the new wiring run up to the shed, we have a TV that we can use indoors as well as outdoors.

We had our friend who runs a landscaping business rent out the necessary equipment to dig an 18 inch deep trench in our yard the 120 feet from our house to the shed.  Luckily we knew that we had a fairly large gas line buried in our back yard so we made sure to reach out through 411 to have the team come out and mark where the line was.  To be sure we didn’t cut this line, we hand dug the trench in this area. After we dug the trench we were able to run a new conduit to the shed with the appropriate power needed as well as the lines needed to have ethernet, cable and phone service in the shed. My husband was thrilled with this addition because it mean he could have a television in Manland.  Football and firepits all fall long!

The additional power capacity was an added expense and something that we didn’t really anticipate, but was necessary to make the space function for our needs. The trench and electrician work nearly doubled our initial budget. This did not make me happy at the time, but I can now say I’m so happy we did it the right way.

All the little details

We have walls, floors, baseboard heat and lights… it’s looking like an office!

We are still in the midst of adding details to make the office shed feel really comfortable, but here are some of the things we’ve done so far to make it workable. We added two matching desks from IKEA.  We already had one desk so we added another and put them right beside each other to allow us to make the best use of our space. This also allows us to enjoy the sunshine that comes through our screen door. Come summer we will have to think through ways to keep our space cool (an HVAC unit was not in the budget at this time), but having a screen door should allow for some nice breezes. Speaking of temperature, we added two baseboard heating systems. These run off electricity and keep the space super warm. We keep them on all day to make sure the space is super comfortable as soon as we arrive every morning.

Screen door added for extra sunlight and a warm summer breeze.

We also added LED can lights that have various colors of brightness. Sometimes LED lighting can be too white, almost like fluorescent lights, so we like that we can adjust the softness of these lights to make sure the lighting is just right.  We also added a place to put our shoes, hang our coats and wipe our feet so that we don’t trek mud, dirt and moisture into the space. We are in the midst of hanging whiteboards and bulletin boards and hope to add some art to the space to punch up the color.

Cost and evaluation of our shed renovation

Desks and computers are in and the space has been fully functional for about a month.

All in we spent nearly $9,000 to renovate, rewire, insulate and furnish our shed office. It’s way more then we had hoped to spend, our original budget was $6,000, but totally worth it. The space has been a huge boost to our productivity and has allowed us a space to escape for work.  Oftentimes, when you work from home it’s hard to separate work and home life.  Having this separate space has really allowed us to leave our work in the office shed at the end of the day to come back down to our house and enjoy our lives with our little family.

How to Submit User Stories

1: Include “My Fresh Home Project” in the subject line. Then, in the body of the email, please provide an explanation of why you chose to do the project, an outline of steps you took to get it done, and any advice for readers considering similar projects. Make sure to include your name and any before/after images you have! 

2: Email your story to team@mail.freshome.com. (note: link)

And that’s it! Easy, right? If selected, your story will be shared as an article on Freshome!

The post How I Created My Own She-Shed – Reader Story appeared first on Freshome.com.

A headboard is one of the last things you see before you fall asleep and one of the first things you see when you wake up. Demonstrate your unique design style by creating your own. Below are some ideas and tips to get you started.

Do you think the formula for sleep is on this London bedroom’s headboard? Image: Clifton Interiors Ltd

Chalk headboard

Create this look with a can of black chalkboard paint. Almost any type of wall – drywall, plaster, wood, brick or concrete – will work, as long is it is properly prepped. Chalkboard paint is easy to apply, dries fast and can be cleaned with soap and water. But you’re not limited to the color black – chalkboard paint comes in just about every color. If you don’t want to use paint, consider chalkboard contact paper – and yes, you can use chalk on it.

An Edmonton hockey-themed room. Image: Cameron Homes

Hockey goal headboard

For the ultimate hockey fan, nothing beats a hockey goal headboard. Complete the scene with a team blanket and life-size decal of a favorite player. Peel and stick decals are easy to apply and available for most major sports. In addition to decals of players, fans can also get team logo decals.

A simply elegant Dorset, England, bedroom uses wallpaper behind the bed. Image: Farrow & Ball

Wallpaper headboard

This Silvergate wallpaper from Farrow & Ball creates a simple yet elegant headboard. The wallpaper is applied directly to the wall. For such an intricate pattern, the company recommends sketching the left side of the headboard in pencil and then cutting it out to use as a template for the right side. This ensures that the two sides are symmetrical. Be sure to prep the wall by removing all dirt, filling any cracks and sanding the wall smooth.

This Sydney, Australia, bedroom is full of surprises. Image: Capital Building

Floating laminate floor headboard

This beautiful headboard is actually a floating laminate floor placed on the wall to mimic a recycled wood wall. While the front and sides of the wall are laminate flooring, the back is plasterboard. The two bedside tables and the faux fireplace are actually painted medium density fiberboards (MDF).

This Toronto bedroom is artistic and colorful. Image: Meghan Carter Design, Inc.

Graffiti headboard

Turn your headboard into a work of art. This graffiti design is certainly colorful and creative. For the graffiti look you can also spray paint text on faux brick wallpaper. Use solid vinyl unpasted wallpaper as it’s peelable and easily cleaned. Another idea is to use a large printed tapestry that can be hung on the wall or wrapped around a piece of wood or MDF.

This Orlando master bedroom is dramatic, yet relaxing. Image: Studio KW Photography

Frame molding headboard

To create this elegant look, cut molding to the desired size and then drill the pieces to the wall. Molding is available in wood, polystyrene (which is a hard plastic) and MDF. You can then paint the cut molding any color. Molding creates architectural detail and defines each area.

This New York beach house is light and airy. Image: Serenity Design

Wrought iron headboard

Wrought iron headboards are beautiful – and expensive. However, you can find wrought iron railing at flea markets, online and at places that sell outdoor furniture and fences. Unlike some other types of headboard material, wrought iron is durable and easy to clean. While wrought iron is available in a variety of patterns, none of them are bulky, which is an advantage in small spaces.

This Mumbai bedroom is stylish and exotic. Image: SAGA Design Architects

Global headboard

The floor-to-ceiling world map in this bedroom serves as the headboard and the focal piece. The map also pulls all of the colors in the room together (including the red pumps on the floor). This type of wall mural requires a smooth surface. In lieu of using a primer, flat latex paint is best for creating the right surface. You’ll also need to mix and apply paste to each panel before hanging.

The post Enjoy Sweet Dreams With These DIY Headboard Ideas appeared first on Freshome.com.

The excitement of moving into your new dream home takes a back burner, temporarily, to the overwhelming feeling of anxiety that packing up the contents your home and moving them all to another location. There is so much involved with a move – so many moving pieces that must be organized accordingly. We hope this guide will help so that you can feel at peace with the process and enjoy your move.

Organization is the key

Being organized is the best thing that you can do to ensure a smooth, flawless move. It’s important to make lists of everything that needs to be done – this includes purchasing packing supplies, packing itself, interviewing movers and securing a date. Make lists for your lists, if need be. Make lists of rooms and items to pack and be sure to keep them in a very secure location. Will you need to hire a cleaning crew to clean your home once it’s empty?

Will you need to hire a cleaning crew for your new location prior to your arrival? Will you be moving from one home to the other on the same day or will you need to arrange for a place to stay for a night or two. Do you have pets that have special needs? Do you have young children? If necessary call the electric company, water company and phone company to have these utilities turned on and put in your name.

Get rid of unwanted goods

There’s nothing more annoying than unpacking unwanted and unused items. Nevermind the expense wasted on moving these items. Before you move purge your closets, drawers, cabinets, attics, basements and garages. Donate your items to charitable causes. Toss them in the garbage. Pass items off to friends as hand-me downs. Have a tag sale (or garage, or yard sale – whatever you call them in your area.) List them on eBay or Craig’s list. Just get rid of anything you don’t use and don’t foresee using. You will feel so much better when you do, especially when it comes to unpacking!

Research your moving company

All moving companies are not alike. They differ in many ways. Interview various companies to learn about their fees and their policies. Moving is very expensive.  How much more will it be for them to pack your belongings for you? Discuss with them how much it would cost to pack some, but not all of your belongings.

Ask about their insurance policies and their protocol for storing your possessions in their trucks overnight.  Ask questions, as many as you have. Do they charge per box, per hour, by distance? Get it in writing. Whatever you agree to must be documented in writing. You have a lot at stake.

Packing

Packing is the most mundane, most dreaded chore. It’s also the most overwhelming and the most intimidating. Take baby steps. If you have time to plan, the more time you allow to get your packing done, the better. The worst thing you could do is to save it all for the last minute. If you can afford to and would prefer to hire the movers to pack for you, then your stresses will be cut in half. But this is a very expensive proposal. You may want to have the movers packs some items – perhaps your more valuable, fragile items such as artwork, china, silver coffee service. They’re trained to pack well and safely. These items, if packed by the moving company will also be insured. You, then can pack the rest.

Start off by packing up the least used items. Save the items that get used the most for last. Keep very detailed lists of what you’ve packed into each box. This will make unpacking so much easier. Mark each box well. Mark each box on all sides. List the name of the room the box belongs in, and put a number on each box. So therefore, in the Living Room you will have Box 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, the dining room table, chairs and the buffet. You will have one master list for each box, with the contents. This too will make unpacking easier, allowing you to know exactly what is in each box. I highly recommend NOT labeling the contents directly onto each box.

Packing Supplies

You’ll need packing tape. Lots and lots of packing tape. More than you will ever imagine. Don’t skimp and buy discount here. You want a good packing tape that won’t tear or shred or stick to the roll. You’ll tape your boxes and re-tape and re-tape them. We don’t want the bottoms falling out now, do we? You’ll need bubble wrap, packing paper or newspaper, scissors, bold black markers such as Sharpies and boxes – lots and lots of boxes. When purchasing your boxes do shop around. If you purchase them from your moving company it is likely you will pay a small fortune.

Check out the boxes at self-serve moving companies and office supply stores. Go to your local liquor store. Not only will you welcome a nice stiff drink at the end of the day but there is always an abundance of boxes here that are only going to get tossed anyhow. Think “green” and reuse some of these boxes. Also contact your Realtor or local real estate company. Likely they will know of someone who has just moved and eager to get their moving boxes off their hands. When you move, do the same. Let’s help one another out and keep these boxes out of the landfills!

Don’t overlook your pets

Pets are very sensitive to moving. They are creatures of comforts and like their known home base. Make this new transition as easy for them as you can. In a well marked box, keep all your pet’s supplies together – toys, beds, medications and anything he will need. Make sure food and snacks or treats are easily accessible, as well as lead, collar and water dish. Help your pet acclimate to the new location -sights and smells, while ensuring there is plenty that he is familiar with. Many pets often run away from new homes in search for their old ones. Keep all external doors closed, and if necessary, locked. If you cannot be in your new home that first night, be sure to have a plan for your pet that includes a place to stay if he can’t be with you.

Comfort your Children

Involve your children in the moving process. Show them their new home, walk through it and the grounds. Let them have a say in what they might like their bedrooms to look like. Let them get familiar with the house’s floor plan and property. Why not have a picnic lunch there one day? Children love to feel involved and a part of the process. Like pets, they too can feel a sense of homesickness for their previous home. It is therefore important to pack the things that matter to them – their favorite stuffed animals, pajamas, blankets, even a few of their toys.

Pack a suitcase

Pack as though you are going away for a night or two. Have the most important and essential items together in this suitcase – clothes, medicine and toiletries, for example. This way, should you need anything you won’t have to rifle through box after box after box.

Have an unpacking plan

So you made it. You had everything packed up, loaded into the trucks and unpacked. As if you’re not already exhausted – now you need to unpack everything. Much in the way you had a packing plan, you need an unpacking plan. Thank goodness for those lists you made while you were packing – they will help you greatly in the unpacking process!

Start with what you need first. Start with the rooms that will be used first. Bedrooms – both master and childrens –  take priority here. Have the beds set up and made so that you have someplace comfortable to go to and crash at the end of the day. Have towels placed in bathrooms and your toiletries in place so you can wash up at the end of the day.

Unless you’ve arranged with your cable, internet or satellite provider ahead of time, you may not have a television to watch at the end of the day. Make sure lamps and reading lights are unpacked so you can read in bed… or on the couch… as you make your way around the sea of boxes.

The next most important room would be the kitchen. Start by unpacking pots and pans… tea kettles, coffee makers… the items you will be needing most. You’ll need items for food prep, plates, cups and glasses. Once the most important items have been put away, you can either continue with the rest of the kitchen or move on. I would suggest continuing with the rest of the kitchen – unless, of course, you plan on doing any work to the space. Then it would be wise to take out and use only the essentials.  Once the bedrooms and kitchens are unpacked you can go at your own pace. I would strongly suggest not to move on to the next room unless the one you are working on is all done. If you go back and forth you are more likely to take a longer time unpacking…

The post What You Need to Know to Prepare for a Move appeared first on Freshome.com.

panuwat phimpha / Shuttershock

Doorbell Cameras Buying Guide

As you might’ve noticed on social media, doorbell cameras are rising in popularity, . If you’re considering one for your own home, this guide can help you make the right decision without all of the trial and error. This guide can help you understand what factors to consider when buying a doorbell camera, including equipment cost, features, the field of view, resolution, compatibility with other apps, warranty and reviews.

What is a Doorbell Camera?

A doorbell camera is a security camera that looks just like a doorbell and helps thwart break-ins and theft. It works just like a regular doorbell and chimes when you ring it, but has a video camera built-in that you can use to monitor your home. With some cameras, you can keep tabs on your home security when you’re away using Wi-Fi and a smartphone or tablet. Most doorbell cameras allow you to speak directly to whoever is on the other end using a speaker. Some come with motion detectors so you can record only when activity is detected.

How to buy the best Doorbell Cameras

Now that you know exactly what a doorbell camera is and what it can do to help secure your home, take a look at the factors to consider when shopping for the best doorbell camera.

Types of Doorbell Cameras 

Doorbell cameras come with all kinds of features, price points and video resolution. Doorbell cameras are both wired and wireless, and some can connect to your Google Home or Alexa. There are also doorbell cameras that provide HD video resolution and clear two-way audio. Some cameras require a monthly subscription fee for monitoring.

Choose the Right Size 

Choosing the right-sized camera is important because your doorbell camera should cover the entirety of the area you want surveilled.  

Compare Doorbell Cameras cost 

Several different factors contribute to the overall cost of a doorbell camera, including video resolution and the field of view. You’ll find doorbell cameras ranging from $99.99-$400.

Read Doorbell Camera reviews ­

Before you decide on a doorbell camera, it’s best to research reviews for each brand. Look for detailed reviews that speak to features, resolution, wireless capabilities, design and overall operation. Look for specific details that help you make a purchasing decision that’s right for you and your home.

Installation

Most doorbell cameras can be installed without the need for a professional. You can easily do it yourself fairly quickly.

Doorbell Camera brands

In this section, we’ll take a look at the top doorbell camera brands and one or two of each brand’s popular doorbell cameras.

1. Ring

Ring is a top-rated doorbell camera brand that offers a variety of plans and Wi-Fi connectivity for all of its doorbell cameras. Take a look at two of Ring’s best doorbell cameras.

• Ring Video Doorbell 2
  • Wireless operation
  • 1080p video resolution
  • Integration with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT
• Ring Video Doorbell Pro
  • Easy setup
  • 1080p video resolution
  • Motion detection

Cost: Starting at $99.99 (monthly fees starting at $3/month)

2. August

August is another top-rated doorbell camera brand that integrates with Amazon Alexa and is available with cloud storage.

• August Cam
  • 960p resolution
  • Cloud storage for $4.99 a month
  • Motion detection

Cost: Starting at $170 on Amazon

3. RemoBell

RemoBell provides great overall value with live on-demand streaming and infrared night vision. 

• RemoBell S
  • Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and IFTTT integration
  • HD video
  • Customizable motion zones, adjustable motion sensors and a 180-degree field of view (horizontal and vertical)

Cost: Starting at $99.00

4. Google Nest Hello

Nest Hello is a great doorbell camera brand due to features and Bluetooth connectivity options. It’s perfect for Nest Device users.

• Google Nest Hello
  • 160-degree field of view
  • HD video
  • Package arrival notification

Cost: Starting at $149.99 on select sites for a limited time – normally $229 ($5/month)

5. SkyBell HD

SkyBell is great for those who want all of the perks of a doorbell camera in HD video quality. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa, and all cameras come with a one-year warranty.

•  SkyBell HD
  • 1080p HD video with full-color night vision
  • Motion sensor alerts
  • Rain and weatherproof

Cost: Starting at $141.57

6. Vivint

Vivint is a high-quality brand that offers top-of-the-line doorbell cameras that can easily integrate with your smart home. 

• Vivint Doorbell Camera
  • Vivint Smart Clips (30-second video clips on-demand)
  • Smart visitor detection
  • Custom notifications

Cost: About $199 and about $60 per month (long-term contract required). Toll-free number: 855-688-6632

7. SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is a quality doorbell camera brand that offers crisp, clear video and works with doorbells on almost any kind of home.

• SimpliSafe Doorbell Pro
  • 1080p video resolution
  • Connectivity with every sensor in SimpliSafe system
  • Works with existing doorbell

Cost: Starting at $169

8. Frontpoint

Frontpoint is a top brand known for affordability. Its doorbell cameras come with a three-year warranty.

• Frontpoint Doorbell Camera
  • 720p video resolution
  • Cloud storage
  • Night vision

Cost: Starting at $99 with monthly fees of $49.99

9. Doorbird

Doorbird is a German brand of doorbell cameras that provides superior video quality and top-notch features.

• Doorbird Video Doorbell Camera
  • Push notifications for up to eight devices
  • Voice with deliveries
  • Free cloud recording

Cost: Prices starting at $416

10. Zmodo

Zmodo Greet is a brand known for its features and affordable prices. 

• Zmodo Greet
  • 720p video resolution
  • Night vision and motion detection
  • Zmodo Cloud

Cost: Starting at $74.55 on Amazon and monthly costs starting at $4.99

The post Doorbell Cameras Buying Guide appeared first on Freshome.com.

Best Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems: Reviews and Comparison

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, central air conditioners and furnaces aren’t the only two options. Ductless heating and cooling systems, also referred to as mini-split systems, offer superior performance with a smaller footprint. These HVAC systems come with a wall-mounted indoor unit and an outdoor unit consisting of a compressor.

Mini-splits are ideal for cooling or heating small spaces such as condos and home additions like attics, garages and finished basements. However, a multi-zone system consisting of 2-6 indoor units can quickly cool or heat multiple rooms in your home using a single compressor.

If you’re looking to replace your old and inefficient HVAC system with a new one, consult this guide to learn how to pick a perfect ductless heating and cooling system for your home and discover the best ductless brands. We also recommend speaking with local HVAC professional in your area to get further advice on sizing and installation.

What makes the best Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems?

With endless options available in the market, choosing the right ductless system that meets your budget and performance requirements can be a challenge. This section explains the factors that you should consider when comparing brands that offer mini-split heating and cooling systems.

Price

The price of a ductless system is the factor you’re likely to consider first. Most split systems cost $800-$6,000, offering different levels of energy-efficiency and features. An energy-efficient model costs more but ultimately provides monthly savings on energy bills. Also, many mini-splits qualify homeowners for tax credits or utility rebates, providing additional savings.

Energy-efficiency and performance

Not all ductless systems ensure the same level of performance and energy-efficiency. These systems come in different capacities to cool or heat rooms of various sizes. Make sure to calculate the actual BTUs (British Thermal Units) needed to keep your room cold or warm.

Installing a large system wastes energy, while a less powerful unit must work continuously to maintain temperatures, leading to higher energy bills. As such, unit size matters when selecting a ductless system. Most brands display each unit’s cooling/heating capacity along with its size.

Each system has its own SEER (Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Ratio) and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings. The higher these ratings, the more energy-efficient the system will be. When buying a ductless system for your home, you should also look for units that are ENERGY STAR certified. This label ensures that the system offers energy savings without compromising performance and comfort.

Compressor Type

The type of compressor that a ductless heating and cooling system uses also influences total energy savings. A split system makes use of either a rotary or variable-speed compressor. A rotary compressor turns on and off to maintain required temperatures, operating either at full or no power. On the other hand, variable-speed compressors, also known as inverter compressors, run at different speeds to maintain optimum temperatures inside the room. Variable-speed compressors help you save on energy bills while ensuring total comfort all year round.

Additional features

Apart from basic cooling and heating functions, you might also want to consider advanced features in your split system. Advanced features include adjustable airflow, Wi-Fi-enabled remote monitoring and control, humidity control and programmable timers.

Customer reviews

Most reputed brands list customer testimonials on their website. These reviews are a great way to verify the claims made by the company about its products. Specifically, look for reviews on installation, performance and customer support to get clarity before you invest in a ductless heating and cooling system.

Warranties

Most well-known brands offer warranties ranging from 5-12 years on their split systems. Choosing a model with a better warranty period will ensure that you get reliable performance out of your heating and cooling system without worrying about part replacement costs.

Best Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems

Here’s a list of five top ductless heating and cooling systems.

Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FH

Mitsubishi Electric offers some of the most energy-efficient and reliable ductless heating and cooling systems on the HVAC market. The MUZ-FH single-zone series models provide superior performance, boasting 33.1 SEER and 12.5 HSPF. These ENERGY STAR-certified split systems are available with multiple indoor unit options and human sensing technology to direct conditioned air at hot/cold spots in the room. These mini-split systems cost $980-$1,300, excluding the interior unit. The company offers a seven-year warranty on the compressor and five-year warranty on parts.

Daikin LV Series

Daikin is one of the largest HVAC brands in the world. The company offers a range of energy-efficient mini-split heating and cooling systems for residential applications. The LV series units combine excellent performance and efficiency, offering up to 24.5 SEER and 12.5 HSPF. These systems also earned the ENERGY STAR Most Energy-Efficient Mark in 2017.

The split system also comes with a host of features, including self-diagnostics and automatic defrost. LV series ductless heating and cooling systems have an average customer review rating of 4.8 on Daikin’s website. These units cost $1,300-$2,000 depending on the cooling/heating capacity you choose. Daikin offers a 12-year limited warranty on parts upon product registration.

Fujitsu Halcyon RLS3Y

Fujitsu is another reputed brand in the HVAC market that manufactures high-performance split systems for residential applications. The Halcyon RLS3Y series single-zone ductless systems offer exceptional energy-efficiency with a SEER of up to 33.0 and HSPF of up to 14.2.

The powerful outdoor unit can operate efficiently in heating mode even in temperatures as low as -5 degrees Fahrenheit. The ENERGY STAR-certified system also comes with an inverter compressor to provide additional savings on your energy bills while providing optimum comfort all year round. The RLS3Y series systems cost $1,600-$1,800. Customers get a seven-year warranty on the compressor and a five-year warranty on parts.

Gree Sapphire

Gree is a well-known and trusted HVAC brand that offers several high-performance and energy-efficient ductless systems. The Sapphire is an ultra-high-efficiency smart ductless system from the brand that boasts an exceptional SEER of up to 38.0 and an HSPF of up to 15.0.

These units use variable-speed two-stage compressors and come with features such as intelligent defrost, intelligent preheating, self-diagnostics and remote control. These units offer reliable heating even when the temperatures drop as low as -22 degrees Fahrenheit. Sapphire ductless systems cost $1,400 to $2,100 based on the unit size you choose. Gree offers a five-year warranty on all parts.

Pioneer WYS

Pioneer sells affordable mini-split systems for residential applications. The WYS series wall mounted ductless system from Pioneer is widely popular among homeowners within the US.

Available in a variety of capacities, these energy-efficient systems use an inverter compressor and boast features such as an anti-cold air function and remote access. With an average customer rating of 4.8, the 12,000 BTU model is one of the best selling ductless systems from the WYS series, boasting a SEER of 19.5 and HSPF of 9.5. Prices for WYS systems vary from $698-$1,998 based on the cooling/heating capacity you choose. Pioneer offers a two-year warranty on parts and a five-year warranty on the compressor.

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For years, homeowners bought air conditioners and furnaces separately to cool and heat their homes. Today, heat pumps are gaining popularity because they can independently heat and cool a space. Heat pumps are also energy-efficient, offering significant savings on heating and cooling costs.

However, the many heat pump models on the market can make it tough to choose the right one for your needs. This handy guide contains information on what you should look for in a heat pump, the different types of heat pumps available, and the prices you can expect, so you can make an informed buying decision.

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump is essentially an all-in-one air conditioning and heating system that works year-round to keep your living space comfortable. During the summer, it extracts heat from the inside of your home and moves it outside. During cooler months, the device reverses the process, collecting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it to the inside of your home.

Even when it’s cold outside, there is still some heat in the air. A heat pump pulls this heat out of the air and transfers it into your home. If outside heat is insufficient, the heat pump has an electric heater that will supplement the outdoor air to meet your heating needs. 

How to buy the best heat pump

A heat pump is a major investment, so you should carefully consider several factors before making a buying decision to ensure you get the most value from it. We cover these factors in the following sections. 

Types of heat pumps

There are three main types of heat pumps: air source, split-ductless, and geothermal. All heat pumps operate on the same principles but gather heat from different sources. Regardless of the type, all heat pumps should be installed by a professional HVAC technician who can determine the right size and product for your home and climate.

Air source heat pump

Air source, also known as air-to-air, is the most popular type of heat pump. The system is comprised of an indoor and outdoor unit and works by extracting heat from the outdoor air and transferring it into the home. These heat pumps are inexpensive and take up little space. Since they use outside air as the medium for heat exchange, the units function well in moderate climates.

Split-ductless heat pump

Split-ductless heat pumps are also called mini-splits. They include two units: an outdoor compressor and a maximum of four indoor handlers. These systems do not require ductwork, circulating refrigerant through the tubing that connects the indoor and outdoor units. Split-ductless heat pumps are quiet, energy-efficient, and can be operated by remote control. They offer design flexibility and are ideal for homes without ducts. 

Geothermal heat pump

Geothermal heat pumps are classified into ground and water source heat pumps. They move heat through a series of pipes that are buried in loops outdoors. In addition to controlling temperature, geothermal heat pumps also control humidity. These systems require little maintenance and work well in extreme climates. 

Heat pump sub-types

In addition to the three main types of heat pumps, there are also several sub-types, including hybrid, solar, and absorption, or gas-fired, heat pumps.

Choose the right size

Size is a critical factor when considering heat pumps. Choosing the right size will help you avoid issues such as inflated energy costs, extreme temperature fluctuations, imbalance in indoor humidity, and short cycling of the system. A heat pump that is too small will work too hard to provide the amount of heat you need in your home, while one that is too big will emit too much heat, resulting in inefficiency.

When it comes to size, it is more about the unit’s heating and cooling output than its physical bulk. Generally, heat pumps range from 1.2kW to over 10kW. 

Here are some factors to consider when choosing your heat pump’s size:

• Whether it will be used mainly for heating or cooling
• Your local climate, including the average seasonal high and low temperatures
• The level of insulation in your home
• The size of your living space and the number of people who live in it.

Compare heat pump’s cost

Factors that affect the cost of a heat pump include the brand and quality, size and output, efficiency, and type of unit. Installation and placement also affect the final cost. On average, it costs about $5,600 to install a heat pump. For precise pricing information, including installation costs, you should contact a local HVAC professional.

Read heat pumps reviews

Before buying a heat pump, it’s helpful to research reviews. Reviews give you insight into the pros and cons of a specific unit and how it compares to other units within its range. When going through reviews, focus on performance, temperature range, energy-efficiency, sound ratings, cost, features, reliability, and warranties. You can read multiple heat pump reviews on freshome.com.

Installation

There are a few different ways to install heat pump systems. To ensure optimum comfort, you should consider hiring a professional to install it for you.

• Split system: This is the most common installation of any ductless heat pump. An indoor evaporative unit is placed in the attic, basement, or closet, while the condenser and compressor unit is located outside in a large metal box.
• Package system: With this type of installation, all the mechanical components are housed in a large metal box outside. Only the ductwork is found inside the home.
• Mini-split system: Also known as a ductless heat pump system, this system is great for homes without ducts. The system works much like air source heat pumps but on a smaller scale.

Window heat pumps are ideal for homeowners who want to manage indoor temperatures without spending too much on energy bills.

Heat pump brands

Before we review some of the top heat pump brands on the market, here are some key industry definitions: 

• AFUE Rating: The AFUE (Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating is a measure of how efficiently a unit uses fuel. The higher the rating, the more efficient a unit is. 
• SEER and EER Ratings: The SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is calculated by dividing the cooling output of the unit in a given season by the energy it used during that period. EER is a measure of a unit’s efficiency when outdoor temperatures are at 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
• BTU: BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which measures the amount of heat energy needed to raise one pound of water to one degree Fahrenheit at sea level. The higher the BTU, the faster the unit can cool a space. 
• HSPF: HSPF (Heat Season Performance Factor) is a measure of a heat pump’s efficiency. It measures the total heating output in BTU compared to the total energy used in watts. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heat pump. 

Below we review some of the top heat pump brands on the market.

Goodman

Goodman makes their own parts, offers good warranties, and provides great value. Goodman heat pumps are also quiet and last for years with adequate maintenance. Popular models include GSZC18 and GSZC16.

• The GSZC18 has a cooling capacity between 23,000 and 56,500 BTU/h and a heating capacity between 22,000 and 59,500 BTU/h. The GSZC16 has capacities between 24,000 and 60,000 BTU/h when cooling and heating.
• The GSZC18 offers efficiencies of up to 19 SEER and up to 10 HSPF, while the GSZC16 offers up to 16 SEER and 9.7 HSPF.
• The GSZC18 costs about $2,886 and the GSZC16 costs around $2,485.

Trane

Trane makes sturdy machines and offers better-than-average heat pump warranties. While the heat pumps are a bit pricey, they come with excellent customer service and value. Some of the best heat pumps under this brand are the XV20i and XV19 models.

• The XV20i model offers efficiencies of up to 20 SEER and 10 HSPF, while the XV19 features up to 19.5 SEER and 12 HSPF.
• The prices of Trane heat pumps range from $4,600 to $10,000, including installation costs.

York

York heat pumps are highly efficient and feature quiet operation to help you maintain a peaceful home environment. York divides its products into several series to fit different customer needs. Some of the top models are the YZV and YZT units under the Affinity series.

• Both the YZV and YZT models have capacities between two and five tons.
• The YZV heat pump has efficiency ratings of up to 20 SEER and 11 HSPF, while the YZT unit offers up to 19 SEER and 10.0 HSPF.
• The YZV and YZT models cost about $2,850 and $1,700, respectively, not including installation costs. 

Tempstar

Tempstar heat pumps are efficient, and their parts are readily available when you need repairs. The manufacturer also offers some of the best warranties on the market. Two of the most popular models are the TVH8 and TCH6.

• Both the TVH8 and TCH6 have capacities between two and five tons.
• The TVH8 heat pump offers up to 19 SEER, 13 EER, and 11 HSPF, while the TCH6 features up to 17.5 SEER, 13.5 EER, and 9.5 HSPF.

Carrier

Carrier offers a wide range of models to choose from, regardless of where you live. The units are durable and reliable, working for over 20 years with proper maintenance. Some of the best Carrier heat pump models are the 25VNA0 with Greenspeed intelligence and the 25VNA8.

• The 25VNA0 has capacities between two and five tons, while the 25VNA8 has capacities between two and four tons.
• The 25VNA0 delivers up to 20.5 SEER, 16 EER, and 13 HSPF, while the 25VNA8 offers up to 18 SEER, 12.5 EER, and 11 HSPF.
• On average, purchasing and installing a three-ton Carrier heat pump costs about $7,690.

This list is by no means exhaustive. There are other heat pump brands that offer reliable products, quality parts, good warranties, and high value, including Day & Night, Armstrong, and American Standard, so be sure to research all of your options before making a buying decision. 

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If a new furnace is in your future, you’re likely wondering what makes the best furnaces stand out from the competition. When considering how to reduce your energy costs and increase your home’s energy efficiency, selecting the best furnace can be challenging. In this guide, we’re going to look at the most important factors to considerations when comparing furnaces.

What Makes the Best Furnaces?

A wide variety of factors play into what makes the best furnaces, including the following:

Price

It’s difficult to compare competing brands in stores or online, as furnaces are often sold through wholesalers or HVAC dealers directly. Additionally, posted prices typically do not include the cost of professional installation. If you do see pricing online, it is likely the cost of just the furnace itself unless stated otherwise. Your best option is contacting a professional HVAC technician for an in-home estimate.

Customer Reviews

What are other customers saying regarding their experience with these products? Are they satisfied with their furnace’s quality, longevity, and warranty? Do they have issues with finding replacement furnace parts or maintenance? Use these reviews to help leverage your decision.

Customer Support

Working with customer support is an essential factor in the furnace-purchasing process. On most websites, you’ll see a “chat” bubble at the bottom of the screen. Using that function allows you to ask questions about products in real-time. You can then compare your notes to the responses of other manufacturers.

Advanced Features

Check the features for each furnace you’re comparing. That includes the AFUE rating, heat exchanger, and blower speed. When you click on the product’s details, do you see notes about intelligent interaction, automatic adjustments, and optimal efficiency? These are features of the highest quality furnaces.

Industry Certifications

Make sure the furnace you’re selecting is from a company that has CSA industry certification. This industry certification is set for gas and oil furnaces regarding energy efficiency, emissions, safety, and other strict standards.

Best Furnaces

Bryant Evolution 98 Variable-Speed Modulating Gas Furnace | Up to 98.3 AFUE

With over one hundred years in the heating and air conditioning industry, Bryant makes consistently delivering durability, quality, and reliability their mission. Providing value for homeowners has been and remains the driving force behind all of Bryant’s technology and designs.

Featuring up to 98.3 AFUE, the Evolution 98 Variable-Speed Modulating gas furnace is the ultimate in quiet comfort and efficiency. This furnace also offers Energy Star qualifications, Perfect Heat technology, and Perfect Humidity technology that ensure the best in operation and design.

Pricing:

Up to $3,000.00

Average Reviews:

Overall, customers love that this Bryant furnace has a low noise level, great warranty, high-quality features, and exceptional comfort.

Features:

• Up to 98.3 AFUE

• Modulating gas valve

• Energy Star qualified

• Perfect Heat technology

• Fan On Plus technology

Warranty Information:

• Heat exchanger: limited lifetime warranty following registration

• Heat exchanger: limited 20-year warranty if not registered within 90 days

• Parts: limited 10-year warranty after registration

• Parts: limited 5-year warranty if not registered within 90 days

American Standard Platinum 95 | Up to 97.3 AFUE

American Standard has been constructing heating and air conditioning products for over a century. It has always been their mission to use integrity and purpose when putting their customer’s needs first.

The platinum series features American Standard’s most powerful and efficient gas furnaces. This model converts up to 97.3 percent of fuel into your home’s heat. It also provides fully modulating heating, which means it operates between 40 and 100 percent firing rates for the ultimate in comfort control and efficiency.

Pricing:

$1800.00 – $3,000.00

Average Reviews:

Overall, customers are satisfied with the way American Standard furnaces lower their utility bills, how long they last, and how quietly they run.

Features:

• Up to 97.3 AFUE

• Remote monitoring and programming

• American Standard’s most efficient furnace

• Acculink communicating compatibility

• Comfort-R mode

Warranty Information:

• Heat exchanger: Lifetime limited warranty

• Internal functional parts: 10-year limited warranty

• Base-limited warranty: If the product is not registered within 60 days, these terms will apply

• Optional extended warranties are available

• Optional transfer Warranties are available

Amana AMVM97 | Up to 90 AFUE

Amana started in 1934 as a refrigeration company. They have since branched out to provide a variety of innovative residential and commercial products, including furnaces.

This Amana furnace features high energy efficiency combined with quiet operation to deliver optimal home comfort. The CoolCloud app allows technicians to connect, configure, and diagnose any issues that may arise. ComfortBridge technology makes automatic adjustments to keep your home comfortable.

Pricing:

Up to $2,600.00

Average Reviews:

Customers purchasing this Amana furnace are satisfied with the product’s quality, features, quietness, price, warranty, and dealer service. Overall, they recommend this product because it exceeds their expectations.

Features:

• Up to 98 AFUE

• Stainless steel tubular primary heat exchanger

• Energy Star qualified

• ComfortBridge Technology

• CoolCloud HVAC app

Warranty Information:

• Limited lifetime unit replacement warranty following registration

• 10-year limited parts warranty

Lennox Elite Series ELO183 | Up to 83 AFUE

Since 1895, Lennox has been delivering innovation, trust, and quality to its customers. This Texas-based company has distribution locations throughout the United States. They work diligently toward their commitment to safety, and creating better home environments.

Selecting this Lennox oil furnace means you’ll have energy efficiency of up to 83 AFUE. That translates to 83 cents of every dollar you’re spending on fuel converting to heat for your home. This furnace’s streamlined design allows you to install it in almost any space.

Pricing:

Up to $2,600.00

Average Reviews

Customers selecting Lennox furnaces, on average, are happy with their furnace’s features, price, and warranties. The features that helped them decide to choose Lennox include the Energy Star qualification, features, brand reputation, and warranty.

Features:

• Up to 83 AFUE

• PSC motor

• Insulated blower compartment

• Beckett AFG burner

• Air filter and humidifier compatible

Warranty Information:

• Heat exchanger: limited lifetime warranty

• Covered parts: 5-year limited warranty

Rheem Classic Plus Series Model # R802TA050314MXA | UP to 80 AFUE

For nearly 100 years, Rheem has delivered innovative air and water solutions to businesses and homes throughout the world. Their mission is to ensure their customers experience comfort and savings.

The Classic Plus Series R802T gas furnace features ratings of up to 80 AFUE. Its two-stage motor keeps your home comfortable while increasing your furnace’s performance. You’ll also find an exclusive PlusOne ignition system, which ensures reliability.

Pricing:

$875.00 – $1,500.00

Average Reviews:

When you scroll through reviews for Rheem furnaces, you’ll see the majority of them are between four and five stars. Overall, customers are delighted by the product’s quality and how long it lasts.

Features:

• Up to 80 AFUE

• Three-way multi-positional design

• PlusOne Diagnostics

• Removable heat exchanger

• Constant torque motor

Warranty Information:

• 10-year conditional parts warranty

• Heat exchanger: limited lifetime warranty

Wrapping it Up

Selecting a new furnace goes beyond weighing the pros and cons. You should also consider the cost, customer reviews, customer support, and industry certifications when selecting the best furnaces. The model’s features and warranty information should also be weighed carefully. Together, measuring these criteria will help you pick a furnace that’s right for you.

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