HVAC Tips

Wall air conditioners are built to last—but like any appliance, they wear out over time. Knowing when to repair and when to replace can save you money, time, and discomfort during a hot summer.

For the Savvy homeowner, this guide will break down lifespan expectations, common failure symptoms, cost comparisons, and expert-backed rules of thumb.

Through-the-wall (TTW) air conditioners are low-maintenance by design, but that doesn’t mean “set it and forget it.” With just a few easy steps each season, you can keep your AC unit running efficiently, quietly, and safely.

This maintenance checklist is designed for the Savvy homeowner who wants to protect their investment and avoid costly repairs. Routine care = longer life + lower bills.

If you’re installing a through-the-wall (TTW) air conditioner, one of the most common questions is:
“Do I really need a wall sleeve?”

Short answer? Yes—if the unit is designed for TTW use, a wall sleeve is not optional. It’s a key part of performance, safety, and energy efficiency. For Savvy buyers, understanding how sleeves work and which one to choose can save time, money, and frustration.

Installing a through-the-wall air conditioner (TTW AC) is a fantastic way to cool a room without sacrificing window space or dealing with portable units. While it does involve more planning than a window unit, many homeowners find it a manageable and rewarding DIY project.

This guide walks you through every step—planning, prepping, and installing—with practical tips and safety notes. Perfect for Savvy shoppers who want to take control of their home upgrades.

When evaluating air conditioners like the Amana 11,800 BTU Through-the-Wall Unit, understanding energy efficiency ratings like EER, SEER, and CEER is critical. These acronyms directly impact how much you'll spend each month and how long your unit will last.

If you're a Savvy buyer, you don’t just look at the sticker price—you calculate the total cost of ownership. This guide helps decode what those energy labels actually mean and how to use them to make a smart purchasing decision.

Not every space is built for central air. And for the Savvy buyer—someone who wants the right balance of power, value, and low maintenance—through-the-wall (TTW) air conditioners offer a smart, efficient solution. But what exactly is a TTW AC? And when is it better than other types of cooling units?

This guide explains the fundamentals, pros and cons, ideal use cases, and how TTW units compare to other common cooling methods.

When summer heat kicks in, the battle of Through-the-Wall vs. Window AC units becomes very real. If you’re upgrading your home cooling and trying to choose between the two, this guide will help you make a confident, informed decision—especially if you're considering premium solutions like the Amana 11,800 BTU Through-the-Wall Air Conditioner.

Choosing the right BTU (British Thermal Unit) capacity is one of the most critical steps in selecting an air conditioner. Get this wrong, and you could end up with a system that cools inefficiently, runs constantly, or wears out faster than it should. If you're shopping for a through-the-wall unit like the Amana 11,800 BTU Wall Air Conditioner, it’s important to match its cooling power to your room size and environment.

This guide will help you calculate the right BTU capacity, explain what factors can affect your calculation, and provide expert-backed advice to avoid common mistakes.

Are smart thermostats just another gadget trend, or are they actually worth the money? I tested them in real-life mom mode — here’s what I learned about energy savings, ease of use, and whether they make sense for your family.

Feeling lost in the filter aisle? Between MERV ratings, HEPA claims, and allergy promises, it’s easy to overspend — or undershoot. Let’s break down which furnace filter actually fits your needs without overcomplicating your shopping list.

If you’re like me, safety is non-negotiable — especially when little ones are involved. Whether you’re installing your first gas furnace or just want peace of mind this winter, here are practical, real-mom-approved safety tips to help your home stay warm and worry-free.

Heard people talk about “single-stage” and “two-stage” furnaces and felt like they were speaking another language? Don’t worry — I’ve got you. Here’s the down-to-earth breakdown on what it means, why it matters, and how to choose what works best for your home and budget.