HomeCalc Pro Blog
The HomeCalc Pro Blog offers practical advice, expert tips, and data-driven insights to help you make smarter decisions for your home improvement and financial projects.
Foundation Footing Depth for Cold Climates: Advanced IRC Rules
A deep dive into IRC requirements for foundation footings in cold climates. Learn about frost line maps, thickened slab edges, and protecting foundations from frost heave.
EER vs. SEER: Clarifying the Two Key Efficiency Metrics
Learn the difference between EER and SEER ratings for air conditioners. Understand why SEER is a seasonal average and EER measures peak performance.
Air Sealing First: Why Caulking and Weatherstripping are Better Investments Than New Windows
Before spending thousands on new windows, learn why air sealing common leaks in your home offers a much higher and faster return on investment for energy savings.
Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace: Which is Right for Your Climate Zone?
An analysis of heat pumps and gas furnaces. Learn the pros, cons, and operating costs of each to determine the best heating system for your home's climate.
Ductwork Design (Manual D): The Unseen Key to HVAC Performance
Your HVAC system is only as good as its ductwork. Learn what ACCA Manual D is, why it's critical for airflow, and how improper ducts waste thousands.
What is AFUE? Understanding Furnace Efficiency Ratings
A complete guide to AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Learn what the percentage means, the difference between 80% and 95% furnaces, and how to choose the right one.
The Manual J Load Calculation: Why It's the HVAC Gold Standard for AC Sizing
ACCA Manual J is the mandatory gold standard for determining your home's HVAC load. Learn why sizing by square footage is dangerous and the critical inputs (R-Value, Climate Zone) required.
The True Cost of a Low SEER AC Unit (Why the Price Tag is Deceiving)
The initial savings on a low SEER air conditioner are often dwarfed by high lifetime energy costs. Learn the difference between SEER and SEER2, and how efficiency impacts your savings.
Deck Footing Depth 101: Why You Must Dig Below the Frost Line
Learn the fundamental rule for deck construction: digging footings below the local frost line. We cover IRC requirements, load transfer, and how to find your local minimum depth.
Insulation R-Values: What They Mean and Why Your Home Needs More
Understand insulation R-values, how they slow heat transfer, and the minimum R-values required by the IECC based on your specific Climate Zone for maximum energy efficiency.
Flooring Waste Factor: Why You Need 10-15% Extra (And When You Need More)
Don't run out of flooring. Learn why you need 10-15% extra for waste, and why diagonal patterns or tile can require 20% or more. Calculate correctly.
Climate Zones 101: Why Your Location Dictates Your HVAC Size (DOE Zones Explained)
Understanding the DOE Climate Zone Map is vital for home efficiency. Learn how your zone (from Zone 1 to Zone 7) determines insulation R-values and your mandatory AC size.