HVAC Tips
The Micro-Return Strategy: Mike’s Fix for Rooms That “Feel Cold but Read Warm”
Every HVAC tech has heard it:
“My thermostat says 72, but the room feels cold.”
Mike Sanders hears it more than anyone—and he knows exactly what it...
The Sleeve-to-Stud Integration Plan: Mike’s Structural Rules for a Zero-Flex Install
When most homeowners and even many installers cut a hole for a through-the-wall AC or heat pump unit, they focus on one question:
“Will the sleeve ...
Mike’s 4-Point Airflow Compass: A Geometry-Based Method for Predicting Cold Spots
Most people think cold spots happen because the HVAC unit is too small, the vent is weak, or the wall unit “isn’t pushing air far enough.”
Mike San...
Off-Center Placement Theory: Why Mike NEVER Installs a Wall Unit Dead-Center
If there is one rule Mike Sanders repeats more than any other during system design, framing layout, or pre-install audits, it’s this:
“Centering a...
The No-Noise Envelope: Mike’s Techniques for Reducing Wall-Unit Vibrations by 40%
If there’s one complaint homeowners have about through-the-wall AC and heat units—even the top-tier models—it’s noise.
But as Mike Sanders explains...
Heat-Rise Logic: Mike’s Vertical Temperature Strategy for Units with Electric Heat
Most homeowners think comfort problems start on the thermostat.
Mike Sanders knows they actually start on the ceiling.
Electric heat—especially fro...
The Pressure-Neutral Room: How Mike Balances Intake & Exhaust to Prevent Stale Pockets
Mike Sanders has a rule he repeats on every job, whether he’s installing a through-the-wall AC, a PTAC, a heat pump, or a multi-zone ductless syste...
Envelope Engineering for Wall Units: Mike’s Method for Stopping Thermal Bleed at the Cutout
When homeowners talk about inefficient through-the-wall AC units, Mike Sanders notices something: they almost always blame the equipment, not the e...
Static Pressure Recovery: Mike’s Building Mods That Transform Bad Systems Into SEER2-Performing Ones
Most homeowners believe HVAC efficiency comes from equipment SEER ratings. Mike Sanders knows better.
He’s seen brand-new 16–20 SEER2 systems run l...
High-Velocity Problem Solving: Mike’s Fixes for Homes Where the 4-Ton System Overpowers the Layout
Most homeowners think bigger HVAC equipment means better cooling. Mike Sanders knows the opposite is often true.
A 4-ton system is a serious airflo...
Filter Rack Science: Mike’s Method for Eliminating Static Loss and Extending Equipment Life
Most homeowners think of the air filter as a simple maintenance item.
Mike Sanders knows better.
4 Ton 14.5 SEER2 120,000 BTU 80% AFUE Goodman Upf...
Noise-Indexed System Layout: Mike’s Quiet-Home Design Rules for 4-Ton AC Condensers
A 4-ton AC condenser is a workhorse. It can cool large homes, open layouts, and energy-hungry spaces. But without smart system design, it can also ...