Home technology expert Ross Trethewey takes us on a road trip to help a homeowner solve their thermostat problem. After upgrading his upstairs unit to a smart thermostat, the homeowner ran into some trouble with his lower-level thermostat’s wiring. Ross helps the homeowner understand the wiring, including why there are duplicate colors and disconnected wires, as well as offering a solution to simplify the smart unit’s installation.
Next, we meet host Kevin O’Connor back at the shop to talk about deck stain with paint expert Mauro Henrique. After discussing the common types of decking boards, Mauro shows Kevin the types of stains and sealers he would use on them and even explains their protection levels.
Finally, we follow mason Mark McCullough on a road trip to help a homeowner restore their bluestone patio. Mark shows the homeowner several products that they can use to cut through the mold and mildew on his patio before helping him scrub the surface with a pressure washer attachment designed for the job.
How To Install A Smart Thermostat
With everything smart thermostats can do (scheduling, voice control, remote access, and remote temperature sensing), it’s obvious they’re a major upgrade over standard models. But, with the upgrade comes the need for constant 24-volt power with a common wire. When a homeowner couldn’t figure out how to wire his new smart thermostat, he called home technology expert Ross Trethewey for help.
Where to find it?
To install a smart thermostat you’ll need electrical tape, hand-held drill, pliers, screwdriver and extra twist-on connectors.
Use a multimeter to check for wiring continuity.
Use foil tape to reseal the face of the air handler—which was manufactured by Ecobee.
How Deck Stain Protects Wood
Paint expert Mauro Henrique shares his best tips for deck staining with Kevin O’Connor, including the most common deck wood he comes across and what staining options are available and their benefits.
How to Clean a Bluestone Patio
A backyard stone patio can be a homeowner’s dream. But when it’s surrounded by trees and shade, it can also be a dream for mold and mildew. When a homeowner faced the problem of mold and mildew taking over his patio, he called the Ask This Old House team for help. Mason Mark McCullough brought several solutions (of the cleaning variety!) to help restore that bluestone beauty.
Where to find it?
Using a pump sprayer, Mark applies a multipurpose outdoor cleaner to the bluestone and allows it to sit for a few minutes. Once the solution is set, Mark sprays down the bluestone using a power washer with a surface cleaning attachment.
Original Air Date: May 16, 2024, Season 22; Ep. 24 23:42
Products and services from this episode
- Air handler manufacturer: Ecobee