Living in Arizona, I know a thing or two about sweating. In fact, for about four months out of the year, when temps reach triple digits, sweating is pretty much a part of my daily routine. So, when I was offered the chance to test a home sauna in the dead of summer, it felt rather..counterintuitive. Would I need (or even want) to hop into a 140-degree sauna when I practically live in one? But the answer, as I would soon find out, was absolutely.

Infrared saunas offer more than just a fancy sweat session. In fact, unlike traditional saunas that simply heat the air, infrared saunas use infrared light technology to penetrate and heat the body directly. Offering all the benefits of natural sunlight—without the harmful effects of solar radiation—infrared saunas are growing in popularity due to their touted therapeutic effects, which range from improved energy, mood and immunity to reduced pain and chronic inflammation (just to name a few).

While infrared saunas can vary in heat type (far or full) and size, I was fortunate enough to test Sun Home Saunas Luminar Outdoor Two-Person Sauna, which offers full-spectrum infrared technology (i.e., the benefits of near, mid and far infrared waves) for both me and a lucky guest. Read on to hear about my full experience, from delivery and setup to testing and maintenance.

What is Sun Home Saunas?

Sun Home Saunas’ vast line of products delivers the therapeutic power of thermal and cold therapy right in the comfort of your own home. From saunas and infrared blankets to cold plunges and red light therapy, Sun Home Sauna has something for almost anyone.

The brand offers a variety of infrared saunas that differ by intended use (indoor vs. outdoor), heat type (far-infrared vs. full-spectrum infrared) and size (accommodating one person or up to five people). If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t sweat (get it?)—they offer an infrared sauna buying guide to help you with your selection.

For this piece, I tested the Luminar Outdoor 2-Person Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna. This particular sauna also comes in a five-person model if you have the extra space and cash (which, surprisingly, is not much more). But the two-person model—which measures 57 inches wide by 51.5 inches deep by 82.7 inches high—is more than spacious enough to comfortably accommodate two people (or, if you prefer the extra space, just yourself).

Sun Home Saunas Luminar Features

The stylishly modern Luminar comes equipped with equally impressive features to truly elevate your sauna experience:

• 6 Powerful Full-Spectrum Infrared Heaters: Six full-spectrum heaters surround the cabin, while an additional three far infrared heaters are strategically placed under the bench and on the floor. The temperature adjustment range for the sauna is 90 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Aerospace Grade Aluminum Exterior and Cedar Wood Interior: The thermally efficient outdoor Luminar withstands various climates while maintaining optimal cabin temperatures. Its interior, carbonized heat-treated wood offers superior durability, while its double-pane, tinted glass windows and door ensure optimal insulation with panoramic views.
• Built-In Speakers with Bluetooth Surround Sound System: The Luminar is equipped with two premium speakers and Bluetooth connectivity for ultimate relaxation.
• Exterior and Interior Medical-Grade Chromotherapy LED Lighting: Exterior LED lighting lines the perimeter of the sauna roof for added ambiance; built-in interior medical-grade chromotherapy lighting offers additional therapeutic benefits with color-changing capabilities to suit any preference or mood.
• Mobile-App Enabled Control System: In addition to the interior wall control panel and remote control, you can adjust the sauna settings from the convenience of your phone, thanks to the mobile app.
• Ultra Low EMF/ELF Shielding: According to Sun Home Saunas site, their innovative shielding technology ensures the lowest and safest electromagnetic field exposure in the industry.
• Oxygen Ionizer: The Luminar includes a built-in oxygen ionizer that purifies the air to eliminate impurities such as pollen and dander.
• Bench Seating: The sauna features two 20-inch deep bench seating areas with curved seats and backrests for added comfort while you relax.
• Accessories: Remote control with holder, a protective cover for when not in use, and optional parts that can be customized to suit your sauna experience (cup holders, towel rack, tablet holder, magazine rack).
• 6-Year Limited Lifetime Warranty: Sun Home Saunas offers limited lifetime warranty on all their infrared saunas (six years for outdoor residential use and seven years for indoor residential use)

How We Tested It

Shipping and Installation

After purchasing your Sun Home Sauna, you can choose a delivery date and time that you’ll be around to inspect and sign off on your delivery. Curbside delivery is free, but note that it will arrive in a very large pallet. So it’s recommended to schedule installation for the next day (or soon after) or have a few additional sets of hands to help you disassemble the pallet and move the pieces to a safe spot until you’re ready to install it yourself (a dolly may be necessary for moving the heavier pieces).

I opted for Sun Home Saunas’ third-party installation crew, Pure Install, to come out and assist with installation (which runs about $1100-$1300 for the 2-Person Luminar model). If you decide to install it on your own, Sun Home Saunas offers instructions and a helpful installation video. Before they came out, I found a spot in the backyard that would be the most suitable for housing my new sauna (which I’ll admit was both exciting and rather challenging).

Sun Home recommends placing your sauna on an elevated concrete or wood base, preferably protected if your area receives rain or snow. While the sauna does come with a protective cover, I was determined to place it under our back patio to shield it from scorching summer temps and unpredictable monsoon storms. A gazebo would also work nicely, provided you allow for enough overhang (Sun Home recommends leaving four to six inches around the sauna and 20 to 24 inches above the sauna roof).

Their two-person team did an impeccable job, assembling the sauna in roughly two hours and discarding the pallets and any trash when they left. They were also incredibly knowledgeable, offering suggestions on where to position the sauna to have the best view while allowing enough clearance for the door. In the end, we arrived at placing the sauna under the back patio facing out to the pool. While it did now block the kitchen window, this was ultimately the best spot for it (hey, you can’t win ’em all). The installation team also checked in with me about optional accessories and my preferred locations, such as cup holders and magazine and towel racks. All in all, it was a quick and customizable experience!

Given the crew finished in record time and we had a few minutes to chat, I asked if they also disassemble saunas in the event of a move. They said that typically, sauna owners leave their units with the home rather than packing them up and taking them with them (Note to self: Never move). If you’re currently renting or anticipate a move in the near future, you might want to consider one of these portable saunas instead. They also told me that they had yet to see one in action—as typically, the homeowner hasn’t had the proper electrical setup prior to the time of installation.

This brings me to the next and final step of my sauna installation journey: The electrical.

Electrical

The Luminar 2-Person Sauna requires a dedicated 240-volt, 20-amp GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), which a licensed electrician must install. Given the sauna was placed near an existing outlet and electrical wiring (i.e., I’m not trying to re-wire electrical across my yard), I thought this would be a quick—and affordable—task. But I was wrong. The required electrical wiring cost an additional $1350, and after checking in with Sun Home Saunas and a few additional quotes, I learned this was a fair quote for the labor and parts.

Testing

With the electrical up and running, it was finally time to give it a go! I chose a swimsuit and shorts for my attire and, per sauna recommendations, sat on a towel so that my sweat wouldn’t penetrate the cedar bench. While I skimmed the instructions ahead of time, the wall control panel was rather intuitive, allowing you to set your temp and time, connect your iPhone music to Bluetooth, and adjust the lights to your color preference (something you can easily do with the wall panel or remote control). The instructions suggested a 30-minute session at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for your first time, so that’s what I went with.

I’ll admit I didn’t know what to expect; I had previously only used steam saunas, which were not my cup of tea. This, on the other hand, was not at all uncomfortable or stuffy. Sure, the heaters did provide solid warmth, but I was amazed to see how much I was sweating in spite of not being so uncomfortably hot. And never once did my phone reach too high of a temp (something that would happen very quickly if I were sitting out under the Arizona sun). As for the 30 minutes, they went by fast (of course, it didn’t hurt having some beautiful lights to look at and some nice tunes to listen to). I truly felt like I was having a deluxe spa experience in my own backyard, and the panoramic views made for not feeling too confined.

I anticipated feeling exhausted afterward, similar to how you’d feel after a hot day at the pool. But it was quite the opposite! I felt very refreshed and energized. I actually spent the afternoon having a fairly productive day getting work done. I also looked noticeably less puffy in my face the next day (coincidence?). While the jury is still out on any reported long-term effects, my father, who suffers from chronic inflammation and restless sleep, has reported less pain and more restful nights after testing the sauna for just one week.

Maintenance

One thing to note: Sweat. Drips. Everywhere. That little bench towel could only do so much, as perspiration was pouring off of every single limb and onto the floor. While the wood is anti-bacterial and self-cleaning, the instructions recommend wiping up any perspiration before it penetrates the wood (something that put me a little on edge during my 30-minute sweat session). To prevent stains from developing over the years, they advise wiping down the sauna interior with a damp cloth on a weekly basis. As for the exterior, they recommend treating it the same way you would any piece of high-quality furniture.

A protective cover came with the sauna, and it is recommended to keep it on when not in use. I’ll admit, trying to figure out how to properly put the cover (which is equipped with Velcro and straps) over the sauna was not easy. And the roof corners were rather sharp, ripping the cover as I attempted to maneuver it around. I reached out to Sun Home Saunas about this issue (did I mention they have exceptional customer service?), and they said it was a known problem that they are working to resolve. So, in the interim of sending out their team to install protective corners, they sent out a new cover.

Pros

• Full-spectrum infrared technology provides therapeutic benefits without feeling overheated
• Durable aluminum exterior and heat-treated, cedar wood interior
• Bluetooth speakers
• Chromotherapy, color-changing LED lighting
• Mobile-app-enabled control system
• Safe EMF/ELF shielding technology
• Optional installation (for added fee)
• Free shipping
• 6-year limited lifetime warranty
• Amazing and quick customer service

Cons

• Pricey (with installation and electrical setup being potential added expenses)
• Not easy to move/transport
• Sauna roof corners are very sharp, resulting in the tearing of the protective cover (a known issue that they are currently working to resolve

FAQ

How hot does the sun home sauna get?

The Luminar temperature can be adjusted to as high as 170ºF. That being said, unlike traditional saunas (which can get up to 220ºF), infrared saunas deeply penetrate the body, achieving benefits at lower temperatures (typically 150ºF). Because the infrared heat resonates at the cellular level, you achieve a deep sweat without feeling overheated.

What is the electrical requirement to run a sun home sauna?

The Luminar 2-Person Sauna requires a dedicated 240-volt, 20-amp GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter), which a licensed electrician must install.

As for energy output, Sun Home Saunas says that one session is comparable to operating an electric oven or running a clothes dryer, with a typical electric bill cost of about 30 cents per session.

Final Verdict

I could easily see adding this to my daily routine. Not only did I feel so much better after one session, but research suggests that infrared saunas may have a number of health benefits when used long-term. While the sauna and incurred setup fees are on the pricey side (and I have yet to see how this will truly impact my next electrical bill), I was overly impressed with the experience. Now I just need to look into a cold plunge to truly complete the package (will a swimming pool suffice until then?).

Where to Buy the Sun Home Saunas Luminar

The Luminar 2-Person Infrared Sauna can be purchased directly on Sun Home Saunas’ website for $8,199. The five-person model is available for about a grand more at $9,299.

Utility boots have come a long way over the decades. Previously associated with being obnoxiously heavy and having an annoying steel plate that seemed destined to pierce through your foot rather than save it, gone are the days of lackluster work boots with only safety in mind.

Manufacturers have gone to great lengths to not only make them even safer but also more comfortable and, dare I say, attractive. Modern work boots claim to be safer, lighter and better fitting—and can be worn all day. Could it possibly be true?

Keen Utility’s Evanston boot is one of those new-era utility boots that challenge misconceptions. I tried them to see if they could withstand my everyday tasks and meet industrial standards. I was thrilled with these boots, so read on to hear why.

What is the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot?

Keen Utility designed the Evanston work boot to meet the needs of many professionals. However, I found it practical for any application where comfort and safety are paramount. Keen Utility states that the work boot is great for assembly line workers, electricians, the aerospace industry and light manufacturing.

The boots tick all the boxes for standard work boots, with safety and meeting standards being the highest priorities. They’re a six-inch high waterproof boot suitable for many manufacturing and construction situations. Durable leather offers the wearer protection and makes the boots visually appealing.

Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot Features

The Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot stands out with a suite of high-performance features designed for durability and safety. This boot is not only oil, slip and heat resistant, but also boasts a carbon-fiber toe. This makes them a lighter alternative to traditional steel toes while maintaining robust protection. Rated for electrostatic discharge (ESD), the boot ensures safe use in environments where static electricity is a concern.

The boot’s six-inch ankle height provides essential protection and stability, a crucial aspect both industrial settings and demanding work environments. The heat-resistant outsole further enhances durability, allowing the boot to withstand high temperatures without compromising performance or comfort.

The Keen Utility Evanston is equipped with Keen.ReGEN technology, a proprietary sole designed to offer 50% more energy return compared to standard foam soles. This technology helps reduce fatigue and increases comfort during long hours on your feet. Additionally, the boot features a 90-degree heel (half an inch) that contributes to its stability and balance.

The eyelets are constructed from plastic rather than metal, minimizing the risk of marring highly finished surfaces—a thoughtful detail for professionals working with delicate materials. The boots also have reflective elements for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The leather used is barnyard resistant, meaning it effectively withstands the detrimental effects of common livestock-related hazards like oleic acid and urea.

Furthermore, the Leather Working Group certifies the leather as “environmentally preferred,” which ensures that the tanneries adhere to rigorous environmental standards, including waste management and greenhouse gas reduction.

As an extra bonus, the boots are PFA-free and contain no “forever chemicals.”

How We Tested the Keen Utility Evanston Work Boot

The boots arrived by mail in terrific packaging—a sturdy boot box that I’ll be reusing. The boots were pre-laced and ready to use, so I put them on my feet around 8:30 a.m. As someone who dislikes wearing shoes and only wears them as a necessity—something I equate to foot prison—I didn’t even think to take these brand-new boots off my feet for almost 12 hours!

I wear a Euro size 39 with a narrow-to-normal width foot and received a U.S. women’s 8.5 medium boot. The fit was perfect, and Keen’s signature roomy toe box was a welcome relief for my claustrophobic toes and the real or imagined widening of my foot as I age. The cushioned part around the ankle felt comfy and didn’t give me that restrictive feeling I get when I revisit my early 90s hipster days and wear my heavy, black ankle boots.

I wasn’t going to test the carbon fiber toe for safety as they did once on Myth Busters (anyone else see that episode?), but the toe was clearly fortified. I felt confident that my tootsies were in safe hands and opted out of dropping a toolbox on my foot. Another welcome surprise was that the composite toe was not even noticeable, even as my toes were bent, which is something I’ve struggled with in other steel-toed boots.

I spent the remainder of the day doing various chores in these boots. I weeded, ran the string trimmer, cleaned gutters and dug up volunteer lemongrass that was invading my flower beds. I walked on grass, mud and mulch. I even took my daily multi-mile walk on asphalt in these boots because it didn’t occur to me to change my shoes.

Keen Utility boasts that the heel design of these boots helps secure the foot in place on ladders. While climbing the ladder to clean my gutters, I felt absolutely confident. While digging with a shovel and on the ladder rungs, the sole’s sturdiness did not cause discomfort or fatigue. As the day went by, I was so very surprised that my ankles also did not feel any chafing or excessive pressure.

Pros:

• Certified for safety standards and ESD
• Comfortable
• Lightweight
• Environmentally preferred leather
• Reflective
• Chemical and biological resistant leather
• Multiple widths

Cons:

• No color selection for women
• Limited sizes in both men’s and women’s styles

Why Trust Me

I’ve been wearing work boots for most of my adult life. I’ve lived and worked on an organic farm, worked as a land surveyor in many regulated environments, owned a landscaping company and done gobs of contracting work in painting and basic carpentry. Nothing makes my work easier than comfortable and practical footwear.

As a professional product reviewer, I am committed to considering my needs and those of others when evaluating products. The boots are no exception, and I considered many factors in order to give a fair assessment. I looked at both my personal needs and those of people of different sizes and in various industries.

FAQ

Are Keen boots good for work?

There are many types of work boots that are certified for certain industrial uses and safety issues. Many Keen utility boots are approved for these uses and, therefore, are excellent work boots. Keen also has hiking boots and casual boots that may be suitable for certain work environments.

Are Keen shoes good for your feet?

They’re certainly not bad for your feet! In fact, with the arch support, protection and roomy toe box, your feet are getting the royal treatment as far as footwear goes. Keen utility boots come with a 30-day trial, so if you find that they are not meeting your needs, you can return them.

Are Keen boots waterproof? 

Some Keen boots are waterproof. The Evanston boot reviewed is rated as waterproof and is indicated for wet and dry use. If waterproof boots are a must, be sure to check the manufacturer’s stated uses and capabilities.

What Other Reviewers/Experts Had to Say

LaRita B. gives a 5-star review on Keen’s site, saying, “Wide enough!!!!! Yes, finally, Keen listened! These safety-toe boots are wide enough to fit my foot. Thanks, well done.”

Vicki Rose, owner of SPC Specialty Products, a woman-owned business serving the manufacturing and energy sectors, says, “I wear industrial boots daily for work. This boot meets all the safety requirements, looks good, and even comes in a women’s 5, which is perfect for me.”

“Best boot ever,” says Jade P on Keen’s site. “I bought these off of a recommendation from a coworker. So comfortable, even without another insole! My blisters I got from my other boots went away, and because of the composite toe all my ankle pain is gone (because my old boots were too heavy). Seriously the best purchase I’ve ever made.”

Keens vs. Red Wings

I compared these boots to a pair of Redwing steel-toed boots that I used to wear for work and found the Keens have far more support and cushioning. The carbon fiber toe was not even noticeable on the Keens, as opposed to the discomfort inflicted on my foot by the old-school steel toe.

I also compared the Keen to a newer pair of steel-toed Red Wings side-by-side and found the comfort and styling to be somewhat equal, but the Keen was significantly lighter.

Final Verdict

The extensive listing of safety ratings on this boot makes it viable for almost all work conditions. The wonderful support and comfort allow for all-day wearing without the need to break them in. It’s stylish, too. I was unable to come up with really any criticisms of this boot, so I 100% recommend it. There’s nothing to risk thanks to Keen’s 30-day return period, so try out a pair for yourself.

Where to Buy

You can find Keen Utility’s Evanston boot on Amazon and Zappos for around $150. The sizing is accurate, and with Keen’s 30-day return policy, the risk of buying shoes online is minimized.

My partner and I were going to build a formal workshop this summer. Unfortunately, those plans got put on hold, leaving us in a quandary about where to house tools and materials for a camper restoration project we had coming up.

After some digging online, I found the White Duck Alpha Wall Tent, which seemed like a good solution. Still, my partner has worked with canvas for most of his life—running awning and marine canvas businesses, plus consulting for a military tent repair facility—so when it comes to buying anything made of the stuff, he balks at the quality (or lack thereof) and the price.

Even before our White Duck canvas tent was set up, his begrudging turned to enthusiasm, and he’s been trumpeting its praises ever since. It turns out we aren’t the only fans. I talked to Zena Ives, owner of Battle Creek Camping Resort in South Dakota, who relies on White Duck tents for her glamping cabins.

“From Girl Scout trips to large families who want to all stay together, the sheer size of the tent provides rave reviews,” Zena says. “In it, we have four queen beds, a dining table with chairs and a fireplace with a sitting area. This is our third White Duck tent, and we can’t wait to add more to our glampground.”

Whether you need a quick, sturdy workshop or a cozy space for any activity, White Duck canvas tents might just be the ideal choice.

What is the White Duck Alpha Wall Tent?

White Duck makes four canvas tent styles: wall, bell, scout, and cabin. Each comes in a multitude of sizes. We settled on the Alpha Wall Tent in the 12-foot-by-14-foot size, which appropriately fits our backyard space.

Our intended use for this tent was a little astray from its more popular applications, which include camping and outdoor entertaining, such as Airbnb glamping rentals, temporary hunting cabins, family campouts, backyard parties and weddings.

Because of that, we were initially unsure if it could withstand the rougher demands of a workshop. But as soon as we unboxed it and felt the quality of the canvas and sturdy frame, we were sure it was up to our task.

While our goal was a summer workshop, White Duck’s Alpha Wall canvas tents are touted for use in four seasons. They’re made to accommodate a wood stove, with a fire-resistant jack (opening) for the pipe. You can use your own stove or choose from a number of White Duck models. Other notable features include windows with bug mesh and storm protection, an extra layer of waterproof vinyl around the lower sides and guylines to secure them against the wind.

The tent arrived in two surprisingly large boxes, which, in total, weighed a hefty 200+ pounds. But overall, it was intuitive to erect, thanks to the helpful instructions. It is large and heavy, so it did take some muscling. It is a two-person job to lift the top to place the side upright poles, and then it’s a bit of a bear to lift the corner poles high enough to slide the side flaps underneath (which must be done neatly to avoid gaps in the outside).

Admittedly, there was a bit of swearing involved. Still, the expletives were mixed with understanding because we know the snug design is not a flaw but necessary to ensure a good seal and the canvas is adequately taut. It took one person about one hour to set it up, from unboxing it to driving in the final stakes, plus about 10 minutes of help from a second person.

My partner and I liked the aesthetic. It’s spacious without looking like a utilitarian box. It’s reminiscent of historic military tents or maybe something from the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s. Every morning when we come outside, we chuckle that one of these days, some reenactors might be camped out inside, ready to greet us with a cup of coffee.

White Duck Outdoors Canvas Tent Features

• Durable 10.10 oz. Army duck cotton canvas
• Double-stitched seams with reinforced corners
• Water-repellent, mold and UV-resistant finish
• Heavy-duty frame with anodized aluminum poles
• Shock-absorbing bungee cords for weather reinforcement
• Pre-installed wood-stovepipe jack, with 5-inch and 6-inch pre-cut pattern
• PVC groundsheet made from 16 oz. polyvinyl
• Four windows with three-layer storm protection
• Bug mesh on doors and windows, which is PVC-dipped and UV-resistant
• Heavy-duty nylon guyline ropes with quick tighteners
• Six sizes, from 8’x10′ to 16’x 24′
• Upgraded “pro” version available with lighter fabric, portable AC vent, fire-repellency, second door

How We Tested It

Modifications

Our first course of action was to modify the tent’s design to fit our particular needs more comfortably. Since our model didn’t come with a back door, we cut two vertical slits to form a roll-up one, then framed out the sides of the doorway with wood to keep them from getting damaged.

For additional shelf space and wood storage, we created upper shelves on both sides by suspending a piece of plywood with a rope tied to the roof bars. It’s not the most official-looking setup, but it does seem to keep with the garrison theme, and the rigging has managed to hold whatever we’ve tossed up there.

Workshopping

Next, we filled the tent with various building materials and tools, including a chop saw, table saw, two work benches, a set of vertical shelves and a cart full of tools. Even with that load, all of the workspaces are still easy to access, and overall, it doesn’t feel cramped, thanks in part to the five-foot-high side walls and almost nine-foot ceiling peak.

As for durability, we have been trying not to let sharp wood or metal lean against the canvas, but it inevitably happens. Even when we accidentally dropped a stack of 2x4s onto one wall, they didn’t rip the canvas or create scuff marks.

The White Duck canvas tent also has some added durability features, including an internal metal wire truss above the front door to keep the tent stabilized in the wind and an extra layer of waterproof poly sewn around the bottom to keep pooling rain and splashes from mucking up the canvas.

Winds, Sun and Dust

Throughout the summer, we’ve encountered a broad spectrum of weather and other elements. We live about 7,500 feet above sea level, which means the sun blasts everything with UV rays. Three months in, the canvas shows no sign of stress or drying. Also, it reflects the sun’s heat quite well, even on the hottest days. Most of the time, it’s cooler in the tent than outside.

Ives has had similar luck with her Alpha Wall tent. “We are in a valley in the Black Hills of South Dakota, so we easily get 60 to 75 mile-an-hour winds and hail,” she says. “This tent has held up with no issues, and families who were inside during the storms all stated it kept them safe and dry and that they were impressed by the quality of the tent.”

We also get dust storms here, which come with 50+ mph winds. This is no problem for the tent, which held firm. The guylines are also made from sturdy nylon rope and include quick-tighteners, so correcting any lax lines is easy, allowing for movement.

Rain, Snow and Cold

White Duck doesn’t claim absolute waterproofness, but it hasn’t yet let in a drop of rain, even during a surprise downpour. But, in case you need more protection (like if you think it will have prolonged snow on top), the company also sells a thoroughly waterproof fly sheet for the top, which they recommend for prolonging the tent’s life by protecting it from sun damage and debris.

White Duck also sells an awning expansion for the foyer, which is meant for cooking under or storing gear. Otherwise, the tent has a nice little built-in awning overhang at the door for overhead protection.

Since the floor is a separate component, we wondered if it would allow water to seep through, but that has not happened. In fact, we feel so confident that it won’t that we’re now storing some valuable wood furniture there, too.

We haven’t yet experienced how it fares in the cold. But winter is approaching, so we’ll update this once the snow flies. Perhaps we’ll even add a wood stove to the mix to see how that works!

FAQ

Are White Duck tents waterproof?

White Duck canvas touts their tents as “water-repellent,” but even after a summer of rainstorms, ours has yet to leak or get condensation on the inside. The company also sells a fly sheet (tarp) for the top for added protection in extreme weather.

How do you clean a White Duck tent?

The company recommends regularly opening the doors and windows to vent out the tent to prevent mold and mildew. For dirt spots on the canvas, use a dry bristle brush to buff out the dirt, then a damp cloth to pat out the area. Never use bleach or other chemicals that can harm the material and protective treatments. If the tent needs heavier cleaning, soak it in mild soap and water or spray it down with a garden hose, then leave it stretched out in the sun to dry. For instructions on packing, storing, re-treating the waterproof protection and maintaining the zippers, see White Duck’s blog.

What Others Had to Say

A reviewer on Amazon who bought the 10-foot-by-12-foot Alpha Wall wrote: “We’ve had this tent up and in daily use for almost a year. It’s withstood up to 60mph winds and torrential downpours with no problems. Best tent ever!”

A reviewer for Alaska Magazine wrote of the Regatta Bell Tent, “There’s a lot I like and can say about this tent. Fun is the first word that comes to mind. Little kids love to play in tents, but the Regatta Bell was next-level fun for them. They were heartbroken when I put the tent away last fall.”

White Duck Tents vs. Kodiak Tents

The closest size Kodiak tent to our White Duck Alpha Pro 12-foot-by-14-foot is a 12-foot-by-12-foot model. It’s about half the price and weighs 75 pounds compared to White Duck’s 200 pounds. But that price and weight come with a difference in ruggedness.

White Duck vs. Kodiak stats: Anodized aluminum vs. galvanized steel; 10.1 ounces of canvas on the entire structure, vs. 10 ounces on the top and 8.5 ounces on the walls; 16-ounce polyvinyl floor vs. 13.5-ounce vinyl floor; and five external guy lines per side vs. four. Those stats may explain why White Duck tents look consistently more taught than Kodiak Tents in most photos.

A few other notable differences:

• White Duck has 5-foot-tall sides and an 8.8-foot peak, compared to Kodiak’s 5-foot walls and 7.5-foot peak. For a camping tent, the wall height might not matter much, but as a workshop, the 5-foot walls are essential to comfortably placing and using tools against the wall, such as a table or chop saw.
• White Duck’s door is a zipper with flaps that roll back and up, while Kodiak’s is more square.
• White Duck includes an awning over the doorway to protect it from the elements.
• Kodiak has one “storm” window with a pop-out awning, plus two more windows.
• White Duck can accommodate up to a 6-foot stovepipe vs. Kodiak’s 5-foot stovepipe.
• The largest Kodiak tent is 12 by 16 feet vs. White Duck’s 16 by 24 feet.
• Kodiak’s floor is sewn in; White Duck’s is separate. White Duck claims the separate floor makes cleaning and transporting it easier.
• White Duck offers a fire-repellent coating option.
• White Duck offers a secondary fly for the top for added protection.

Final Verdict

If you need a temporary workshop, White Duck’s Alpha Wall Tent is an ideal solution. It’s spacious, exceptionally sturdy against wind and rain, adaptable, quick to assemble and charming. It’s also a good choice for extended family camping trips, as well as a sheltered backyard entertainment space and even a playhouse for kids.

The only caveats are that it’s heavy and bulky to transport and takes longer than a nylon tent to set up, so it wouldn’t be suitable for a short weekend camping trip or if you have a small car. But otherwise, we can’t recommend this tent enough. Its walls are high enough to accommodate a table saw; its rafters are strong enough to hang materials from; the canvas is sturdy enough to withstand pointy objects; and the color nicely deflects the sun’s heat.

Though we were initially disappointed at not being able to build our permanent workshop this summer, the White Duck Alpha Wall tent came through in a big way, and at least for us, it has truly been the next-best solution. We can’t sing its praises enough. Once its workshop days are over, we’ll surely use it for years as a glamping tent.

Where to Buy White Duck Tents

White Duck Alpha Wall Tents cost between $1,650 and $4,350, depending on size. They are available online directly from White Duck, as well as from Cabela’s, Walmart and Amazon.

Pool cleaners can be expensive, and nobody wants to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a product that doesn’t work. That’s why we’ve tested multiple pool vacuums for ourselves, so you can read honest, in-depth reviews from expert product testers before shelling out your hard-earned dollars.

Not only is the Hayward Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner Family Handyman-approved, but it’s also relatively affordable. Whether you’re cleaning an above-ground pool or in-ground pool, an automatic pool vacuum is necessary to cut down on the back-breaking work of manually cleaning your pool.

So, if you’re shopping for a reasonably-priced pool cleaner, we’re here to help with a full review of the Hayward Pool Cleaner.

What is the Hayward Pool Cleaner?

The Hayward Poolvergnuegen is a two-wheeled suction cleaner that attaches to your pool’s pump for hands-off cleaning. Content Director Nicole Doster tested the cleaner in her own pool. She likes to call it the “set-it-and-forget-it” pool cleaner because of its simplicity.

“Of all of the pool cleaners I’ve tested, the Hayward Pool Cleaner was the easiest to install and maintain due to its simple design,” she says.

The pool cleaner is designed for pool floors and rounded corners. It cleans pools up to 16 by 32 feet in size. While it can handle uneven surfaces, it’s not intended for steps or walls and does not act like a skimmer.

Hayward Pool Cleaner Features

We initially decided to review the Hayward Poolvergnuegen because of its simplicity, reliability and affordability. Hayward has been known to make quality pool equipment for more than 80 years, and its 2-wheel automatic pool cleaner is consistent and easy to use.

While the Hayward Pool Cleaner doesn’t have as many smart features as some other pool cleaners on the market, it does come “pre-programmed” with different patterns for the cleaner to rotate and turn as it makes its way around the pool. Those patterns create a steady cleaning routine that cleans an entire pool within hours.

The Hayward Pool Cleaner cleans almost any size pool and has self-adjusting turbine vanes for maximum power and easy debris management. Its two wheels have deep treads, giving it extra traction as it spins and rotates across pool floors. The adjustable roller skirt, treads and programmed steering ensure it climbs walls and maneuvers around obstacles and uneven surfaces. During testing, the cleaner would move six to eight feet across the floor, then pivot its wheels to turn from 90 to 360 degrees; however, that made it harder for the cleaner to target specific areas and not repeatedly clean the same area.

The cleaner’s hose is easy to put together and customize to the size of your pool. The cleaner comes with 10 two-foot hoses that couple together seamlessly—no messing with long hose lengths or cutting required.

How We Tested It

Content Director Nicole Doster set up, installed and used the Hayward Pool Cleaner in her own backyard pool.

“Installation was very simple, which is one of the biggest perks of this product,” she says. “The hoses fit together in less than 10 minutes, and the cleaner head came fully assembled.”

The cleaner also has multiple ways to attach the unit to the pool’s suction port. You can insert a valve adapter nose cone into the pool’s skimmer, use a vac lock that screws onto a designated suction port, or insert the hose directly into a vac lock.

“We already had a vac lock installed, so this was the option we chose,” Nicole says.

“Our initial tests for the pool cleaner involved placing the Hayward Cleaner side-by-side with our other pool cleaners,” Nicole explains. “We added four cups of dirt and debris—ranging from fine sediment to small pebbles—to the bottom of our 24- by 16-foot pool. We measured how quickly and thoroughly the cleaner cleaned up the debris.”

The Hayward Pool Cleaner was Nicole’s favorite of the bunch. “It was slow and steady and picked up most of the debris,” she says. “It picked up so much dirt and sediment that it filled up the pool’s filter very quickly (within minutes) to the point where it kept getting stuck. Luckily, we don’t usually have that much debris in the pool, so it just showed the cleaner’s suction power. Overall, the pool cleaner is very hands-off and easy to use.”

Nicole continued testing the cleaner for over three months. She also phoned a veteran pool owner, Bobby Attonito, who has over thirty years of pool cleaning and maintenance experience. After using the Hayward Pool Cleaner in his own 15-by-30-foot kidney-shaped pool, Bobby said, “I’ve owned Hayward products before, but this is the most sophisticated by far.”  

Bobby noted that the cleaner does not go far up the sides of the pool—only about two feet before dropping down, but that it is not an issue for him. He also said cleaning the entire pool takes roughly three hours. While he didn’t have any issues with broken parts or repairs, Attonito was pleased to note that Hayward always offers parts and repair guides for its products, making them easy to fix if something breaks in the future.

“I think I will have this product for the rest of my life,” Bobby says.

After three months of daily testing, Bobby said the cleaner didn’t clog. It even picked up small stones that his past pool vacuums would get clogged with.  

FAQ

Is Hayward a good pool vacuum?

After months of testing pool cleaners in real people’s backyard pools, the Hayward Pool Cleaner is one of our favorites if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use and effective pool cleaner.

Why is my Hayward pool cleaner not moving?

If you find that your Hayward Pool Cleaner isn’t moving, there is probably an obstruction in the cleaner. The brand recommends removing the inspection plate at the bottom of the cleaner to see if a large piece of debris is wedged between the bearings and the turbine.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

With over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, here’s what reviewers said about the Hayward Pool Cleaner.

Verified purchaser Douglas Wilson says, “Excellent pool sweeper! I find this one the best I’ve had for my pool. Really does what you want with no tangles and a strong suction. Once my pool pump is activated the job gets done! Really helps my pool man so my worries for a clean pool throughout the week are gone! I love this unit and I highly recommend it!”

Five-star reviewer Chuck Miller says, “This checks all the “must have” boxes that everyone complains about on other cleaners. And it checks all my boxes, so no brainer… This is my second one. First lasted 4+ years, with 2 minor repairs: the rubber tires eventually wear down (about 2 years), and it has gears inside that also eventually wear down (2-3 years). Pretty easy to replace gears and away it goes… Very happy with it, and not only would I buy it again, I just did buy another.”

Hayward Pool Cleaner: 2-Wheel vs. 4-Wheel

If you have a pool larger than 16 by 32 feet, then you may want to purchase the four-wheel version of the Hayward Poolvergnuegen. The four-wheel version is just $30 more and cleans pools up to 20 by 40 feet. It also comes with a hose about seven feet longer and weighs about 1.5 pounds more than the two-wheeler. Apart from those things, virtually all of the specs and features of the two-wheeler and four-wheeler are the same.

Final Verdict

After testing the Hayward Pool Cleaner daily for over three months, our Content Director Nicole Doster confidently recommends this easy-to-use, automatic pool cleaner. It effectively cleans dirty pools and doesn’t get caught or clogged on typical debris. While its cleaning method is slow and steady, Nicole thinks it’s a good value and effective at cleaning standard-sized pools.

Where to Buy the Hayward Pool Cleaner

Shop the Hayward 2-Wheel Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner and other Hayward pool cleaners on Amazon. The Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner 2X sells for $429, while the 4X retails for $459.

Kye Ortiz grew up with a “toolbox dad”—meaning, “If it couldn’t be done with a screwdriver, a wrench, a hammer and some nails, then he wouldn’t do it. He’d call somebody,” says Ortiz.

The San Bernardino, California, father of three admits that, while his dad was amazing, he wasn’t a role model who would show him how to pull up his bootstraps and take on projects around the house. But something Ortiz did have was the ambition to learn things on his own—and the passion to provide for his family.

So he did just that, starting with upcycling an old table when he bought his first home in 2002. Today, the 32-year-old can do that and so much more, including gutting entire rooms, building walls and installing flooring. Meanwhile, fans are coming in droves: Ortiz has grown an Instagram (@kyledidit) following of 162,000, thanks to his engaging how-to reels and cool-guy-next-door nature. (Fittingly, his trademarked tagline is “aggressively relatable.”)

Starting with a blank slate

Ortiz currently lives in what he refers to as “an average builder-grade home,” his third family residence in 10 years. This particular abode is different from the others; it marks a true coming-of-age for him, his wife, Amanda Ortiz; and children (Jonah, 10, Emma, 7, and Samson, 4). He’s done more than ever before in this home. And from day one of moving in—in 2020—he’s captured it on video.

“My first-ever post on Instagram was a video of me standing in front of a storage pod in the driveway and I was like, “Hey
I’m Kyle … let’s do this.”

From there, he tackled the first project that needed attention: repainting the joint. At the same time, Ortiz made the gutsy decision to leave his longtime corporate job as an analyst for a utility company and make a living from brand content partnerships. “It was a big leap for me to leave the job,” Ortiz admits.

Seizing life by the paintbrush, he began work based on one of his main DIY philosophies: “If you hate the room, you probably hate the color of it.” So he took what was nearly every wall covered in an “Olive Garden brown,” and turned them into clean slates. To brighten up the space, he went with a pretty warm white, Sherman Williams’ Greek Villa.

He also did another easy lift by changing all the light bulbs from cool to warm. “It’s a simple switch anyone can do—and it makes a whole lot of difference,” he says.

The kitchen was a sea of espresso-hued cabinets, which was bringing down the vibrancy of the space, so he painted those a green Jack Pine color from Benjamin Moore. Even the granite countertop got the paintbrush treatment: Ortiz gave it a fresh sheen using neutral-colored paint in an effort to keep it an appealing contrast with the green cabinets.

Sustainability first

Ortiz grew up in a budget-conscious family and admits that when he married Amanda and they had Jonah, they were trying to be as scrappy as possible. In fact, that’s largely what led him to begin building his DIY skills in the first place.

Little has changed since. His approach to any job is still to do it inexpensively and, most importantly, sustainably. “I try to show people that if you can save it, you can reuse it,” he says.

To wit: For a recent brand partnership, he was tasked with redoing his laundry room and installing a utility sink. He tore out most of the room, but saved what he could, including the cabinetry, which he repainted instead of tossing, even though he had enough in the budget.

“We live in a 10-year-old home. In that kind of situation, no matter who you are, you don’t need a sledgehammer—you need a screwdriver,” Ortiz muses with a laugh. He adds, “If you don’t want something that’s in your house, another person will. And in the small chance no one wants it, you can donate it to a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. I always want to remind people to be mindful of how much they’re consuming, and how as a society we tend to destroy something just to make a space look different. I try to teach my children those values.”

All for the family

In the spirit of work-with-what-you-got, Ortiz got creative when assessing how to redesign his children’s bedrooms.

“Jonah has a closet, but he’s not a hanger-of-clothes,” Ortiz admits. “So we transformed it into something more usable for him to match the way he puts things away.”

Ortiz kept the hanging space, adding a second-level rod, but installed a built-in dresser with six drawers—which is actually two Ikea dressers, one stacked atop the other. And with reusing in mind, he took off the sliding doors and did a hack by hanging hinges, turning them into more user-friendly swinging doors.

In Emma’s room, he really played into her personality. The elementary schooler wanted a place to put pictures of her friends, party invitations and even the school lunch calendar. So he installed a corkboard where she can pin whatever she likes. “She just wants to look up and know when pajama day at school is,” Ortiz says with a chuckle. A budding artist, Emma was happy when Dad also put up a chalkboard wall. And while Emma is now “over” the pink she once requested, Ortiz says he has no problem slapping on some fresh paint.

In 4-year-old Samson’s room, Ortiz painted a whimsical mural of mountains on the wall. “There are only so many years when that works,” he says. “I am open to changing it.” Now, as baby goes through toddlerhood, Ortiz is considering painting the walls yellow, Samson’s favorite color.

Together, the family spends a lot of free time in the kitchen. There are four big island seats that give bird’s-eye views of the range and stovetop. “I love to cook so it’s fun to gather around there in the evenings,” says Ortiz. He also mentions the upstairs living room as a hangout space for movie and game nights.

Other spaces in the home have required a lot more planning, ingenuity and, above all, gut instinct. A front closet-turned-drop zone is one example, as is a completely rebuilt home office that the couple shares.

Looking ahead

Ortiz has built both his home and business on the simple premise of being himself and working with what he has. “I encourage everyone to pick projects that will have a high impact on their quality of life,” he asserts.

Having established a foundation, Ortiz plans to keep growing his DIY business and to continue inspiring and educating homeowners on what endeavors they can take into their own hands—and think outside the toolbox.

Above all, Ortiz is a father and husband first, and knows what joy it brings his family to see his videos. He considers each and every clip as leaving a legacy—something for the kids to look back on and say, “Can you believe my dad once did this?”

Having a home that’s reflective of who they are as a family will always be the most important thing for Ortiz. “I don’t design my house for future people. I don’t know those people … it’s not my concern,” he says. “At the present moment, this very day I want to live in a house that I like. A space to work in and relax in, and something that really feels like home. This does it for me. I’m so happy to be here.”

If you’re a homeowner who relies on a DeWALT battery-powered walk-behind mower to keep your lawn looking sharp, you’ll want to pay close attention: Stanley Black & Decker has issued a recall for certain DeWALT mowers due to a potential laceration hazard. This recall could impact anyone using these mowers, so knowing if your model is affected and what steps to take next is essential.

Read on to learn more about the recall, the risks involved, and what you should do if you own one of the recalled mowers.

Which DeWALT Mowers Are Recalled?

Stanley Black & Decker has recalled over 46,000 lawnmowers (and another nearly 10,000 in Canada). According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall impacts the following mowers:

• 2024 DeWALT Battery 21” Push walk-behind mowers
  • Models: DCMWP234U2, DCMWP600X2
• DeWALT Battery 21″ Self-Propelled walk-behind mowers
  • Models: DCMWSP256U2, DCMWSP650Y2

Why Are These DeWALT Mowers Recalled?

These DeWALT walk-behind mowers are recalled because, if water gets into the handle support while the battery is installed, the impacted mowers may fail to shut off when the bail handle is released. They may also start without a key, presenting a laceration hazard.

There have been ten reports of mowers failing to shut off and one report of a mower starting without a key, which resulted in a minor finger laceration (no medical attention was required). Still, you shouldn’t ignore this DeWALT mower recall.

How Do I Know If My DeWALT Mower Is Recalled?

To identify if your DeWALT mower is part of the recall, follow these steps:

• Start by checking its color—these mowers are black, gray, and yellow with “DeWALT” printed in yellow on the front or side.
• Next, look for the model number on the rear door of the mower.
• You’ll also need to find the date code, which is laser-printed in yellow on the mower’s left side, just above the rear wheel. The date code will be in this format: “20XX YY-58,” where “20XX” indicates the year, “YY” is the week, and “58” is the factory code.

If your mower’s date code falls between 2023 32-58 and 2024 13-58, it’s part of the recall. Mowers made after March 2024 (date code 2024 14-58 and later) are unaffected.

What Should I Do If I Have a Recalled DeWALT Mower?

If you own a recalled mower, stop using it immediately (especially if it has gotten wet) and contact Stanley Black & Decker to schedule a free repair at an authorized service center near you.

Cozy interiors are trending, and boucle furniture fits right in with this shift. If you browse Pinterest or Instagram for decor inspiration, you’ve probably seen curved boucle accent chairs or creamy boucle sofas on your feed.

A little bit upscale and seriously cozy, boucle furniture is a lovely choice to soften contemporary decor styles. It helps that boucle furniture can be soft and comfortable, too. Learn more about boucle furniture and if it’s right for your home ahead.

What Is Boucle Furniture?

Boucle furniture is upholstered with boucle fabric, a textured material made of looped yarn. The textile is soft, dense, and cozy, often described as having a “nubby” texture.

In part, boucle furniture’s popularity is due to its welcoming and warm appearance, which can add dimension to modern rooms. “Boucle’s cozy, inviting texture complements a range of design aesthetics, particularly mid-century modern, Scandinavian, and minimalist styles,” explains Natane Boudreau, interior designer and founder of Studio Boudreau. “It works well with neutral color palettes and organic shapes, offering a balance between visual interest and understated elegance.”

Traditionally made with wool yarn, fabric options are also more plentiful nowadays, with natural and synthetic boucle available.

What Makes Boucle Furniture Different?

Boucle is one of many textured upholstery fabrics that can add coziness to a piece of furniture. Its “nubbiness” is really what sets it apart. Knobby loops of material make it more textured than smoother fabrics like microfiber, chenille, or velvet. It looks somewhat similar to sherpa and sheepskin fabric, albeit less fluffy, which actually works to its advantage.

Boucle tends to be easier to clean than these plush materials. A major benefit of boucle is that it isn’t prone to matting either, a common complaint with sheepskin or sherpa furniture. This is part of why boucle furniture has a decent reputation for durability, too.

How Much Does Boucle Furniture Cost?

Boucle furniture isn’t cheap, but it’s not eye-wateringly expensive either. Its reputation leans more high-end and luxurious. However, its popularity means it’s available at a reasonable price range as budget retailers try to keep up with trends.

It’s possible to find some boucle sofas under $1000 from retailers like Amazon or Wayfair, but you’ll find a lot more boucle couches in the $1000 to $3000 price range. That’s about the price you can expect from retailers like West Elm, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and similar stores that sell trendy furniture.

As expected, the smaller the piece of furniture, the lower the price tends to skew. So, a boucle accent chair will often be more affordable than a boucle sofa.

If you want to incorporate the material on a budget, opt for accessories instead, which tend to be the most cost-friendly. Boucle ottomans, poufs, and cushions can come with a lower price tag but still bring that cozy visual interest.

Is Boucle Furniture Easy to Clean?

Boucle is not the easiest to clean, but that doesn’t mean you should shy away from the material. It’s not easy to wipe it down like with leather and vinyl couches. However, it won’t hold onto crumbs and dirt as much as fluffier fabrics. Expect something in between. The fabric is pretty sturdy and vacuuming can help remove debris from the textured weave.

Boucle can be carefully incorporated into homes with children or pets. As Boudreau notes, “While boucle is fairly durable, its textured surface can be challenging to clean, especially in households with young children or pets.” She suggests considering placing boucle furniture in lower-traffic areas or opting for pieces with removable, washable covers.

Pantea Bionki, owner and lead designer at Bionki Interiors echoes the fabric’s durability, and recommends dark colors in dirt- or stain-prone areas. “Bouclé’s thicker weave and higher pile make it more durable, so it holds up well over time. Its texture also helps conceal dirt and wear, particularly in darker colors, making it a practical option for everyday use.”

Ease of cleaning can depend on material as well, so shop around according to your needs. Wool is naturally stain-resistant. Nowadays, there are durable synthetic options that are treated to be spill or stain-resistant. Some pieces, like couch and cushion covers, can also be washable.

Is Boucle Furniture Right for My Home?

If boucle furniture really catches your eye, you can find a way to use it in your home. It’s perfect if you’re looking for furniture that’s luxe and modern but also cozy and homey. Bionki notes, “Bouclé furniture is an excellent choice for those seeking comfort, texture, and an organic feel in their homes. [It] complements modern and organic design aesthetics, adding an element of softness and warmth to any space.”

Boucle furniture comes in various types and styles. It’s also available in many colors, though neutrals tend to be most popular. Even its texture can vary in its knobbiness, so there are many ways to incorporate it into unique home styles.

Since it’s not the easiest to clean, homes with young children or pets might want to stay away from using boucle furniture in high-traffic areas. In particular, think about how pets might react to the texture. The nubby loops are likely to catch on claws, causing damage to the fabric. It can prove irresistible to some cats, so if you have a furniture scratcher, keep that in mind.

Boucle accessories can be a great alternative to furniture, especially if you love the fabric but don’t want to invest in a furniture piece that kids or pets may damage. You can still make a statement with an affordable boucle cushion, boucle curtains, or a cozy boucle rug.

About the Experts

• Pantea Bionki is the owner and lead designer at Bionki Interiors. As a certified interior designer and home stager, she specializes in creating bespoke interiors, down to the finishing touches.
• Natane Boudreau is an interior designer and the founder of Studio Boudreau, an interior design and creative consulting company that aims to create spaces that are true to people’s authentic selves.

There you are, perfecting the seasoning in your soup, when suddenly your vent hood starts clattering. It’s tempting to ignore the problem by just turning off the vent, but that’s not a great solution since it means smoke could circulate into your living space, and if you’re cooking on a gas stove, there are a number of other toxins as well. Luckily, if you have a noisy vent hood, you might be able to fix it yourself.

Here’s how to figure out the cause of your noisy vent hood damper, or what other elements could be broken, how to fix them and when it’s a better idea to call a professional.

Noisy Range Hood Vent Causes

There are a number of reasons your vent hood could be noisier than usual. “It could be as simple as a loose grease filter or as complex as a bad motor,” says Glenn Lewis, President of Mr. Appliance. Here are some common possibilities.

Loose Damper

If you notice the noise when the wind has picked up, a loose damper is the likely culprit. “This will force the metal of the hood to slam against the unit and make a clanking noise that can drive some people crazy,” says Geoff Walker, superintendent at ASAP Restoration.

Stuck Damper

If the damper is damaged, warped or stuck, it can also create a clatter. “You can identify these issues typically by just turning the hood off,” says Aaron Wilson, a home appliance expert with JustAnswer. “The noise should stop shortly after turning it off.”

Bent Fan Blades or Loose Pieces

If your fan blades are bent, broken, worn or wobbling, or other parts of the hood are loose, they can cause a noisy vibration. “Check for loose screws on the range hood, especially around the fan,” says Melanie Powers, president at Goodberlet Home Services.

Motor Needs Oil

If you hear a squeaky, high-pitched sound, it could indicate that your motor needs to be lubricated. If lubricating doesn’t fix the problem, you might need a new motor.

Clogged Filter

Residue can build up on the grease filter, so check to see if it’s clean and installed tightly in place.

Uninvited Guests

It’s also possible that your vent hood has become the entry point for rodents to enter the home, says Walker. “This can cause it to clang every time they go in and out,” he says.

How to Inspect Your Range Vent for a Faulty Damper

Typically the range vent hood is located on the outside of the house, close to the wall where the range is installed. Once you locate it, see if it’s the vent hood that’s making the flapping noise.

“If the range vent flap is located on the inside, then it will be directly above the range inside of the ventilator fan area, and you should be able to adjust it, albeit awkwardly, from below the vent hood,” says Walker.

How To Fix a Noisy Range Hood

Stuck or Worn Damper

If you think a noisy vent hood damper is the root of your problem, then start by replacing the vinyl or foam backer, says Walker. “It has likely deteriorated and metal is hitting against metal when it flaps open and closed,” he says.

To do this, remove the old vinyl or foam and completely clean the surface. Then, add new sticky foam to the back of the vent flap so there’s no metal-on-mental contact.

“This will eliminate the clanging noise that it makes when caught in the wind or during operation,” says Walker. “You can purchase a roll that will last a lifetime for less than $10, and it will solve the problem for a long time before it needs to be reapplied.”

You can also install a spring-loaded backdraft damper, which typically costs between $10 and $30.

Bent Fan Blades or Loose Pieces

Inspect the fan for wear or damage and replace the blade if needed (blades typically cost less than $50). Also, check for loose screws and tighten those.

Squeaky Motor

If the motor is your culprit, apply a few drops of non-detergent oil to the motor. A can should run around $10. Be sure not to use automotive oil, which is too thin and can damage the motor.

Clogged Filter

Remove the filter(s) and clean them to remove grease buildup. Your owner’s manual may include a helpful troubleshooting guide, too.

When to Call a Pro to Fix Your Range Hood Vent

It’s definitely possible that you may be able to fix your noisy vent hood damper.

“This is a super simple DIY job for many people, but for those that can’t reach the vent hood, or for those that aren’t interested in getting a bit dirty in the process, then you might be better off calling a professional to do this for you,” says Walker.

Powers and Wilson agree it’s also a good idea to call a pro if you think you have an electrical issue or need fixes within the ductwork, since damaging the ductwork can add to the cost and complexity of the fix.

Lewis warns that it can also be dangerous to fix the hood yourself. “Not only are there sharp edges past the filters, there are spinning fan blades and electrical power,” he says.

About the Experts

• Geoff Walker is a company superintendent at ASAP Restoration in Tempe, Arizona, and has nearly 50 years of experience in the home repair field.
• Aaron Wilson is a home appliance technician and expert with JustAnswer. He is the lead tech and field manager at Mr. Appliance of Highland Park in Texas and an instructor at Dyer Appliance Repair Academy.
• Glenn Lewis is President of Mr. Appliance, an appliance repair franchise and Neighborly company. He is responsible for the overall leadership and growth of Mr. Appliance throughout the US and Canada.
• Melanie Powers is president at Goodberlet Home Services, a female-owned plumbing, construction, electrical and HVAC repair company, serving parts of Illinois and Indiana since 1982.

Conventional heat pumps have been heating and cooling homes for decades. In fact, about one in three homes in the United States already uses one. However, heat pumps are mostly found in southern and southwest states because they don’t work efficiently in subfreezing temperatures. They work great in temperate climates but are notoriously inefficient and expensive to run in cold Northern winters.

However, if you pair a heat pump with a traditional furnace, they work together to cool a home in the summer and heat it even during bitterly cold winters.

Read on to learn more about this efficient heating and cooling system with insights from two heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) pros — Liam Hogan from Hogan Mechanical Incorporated and Alexander Siv from Amherst Heating and Plumbing.

What Is a Dual-Fuel Heat Pump HVAC System?

This type of HVAC system relies on a connected heat pump and furnace to meet a home’s heating and cooling needs. The heat pump provides heat during cooler seasons, like fall and spring, while the furnace provides heat in the winter. “Heat pumps are really efficient and limit gas usage, so are a nice alternative heat source in a home during cool, but not cold months,” Hogan says.

Additionally, in warmer summer months, a dual-fuel system also works like a high-efficiency central air conditioner. “It’s like the best of both worlds,” Siv says. “You get the efficiency of the heat pump for cooling in the summer and some heat in the spring and fall. Then, in the winter, you get the heating efficiency of a furnace.”

How Does a Heat Pump with Furnace System Work

A dual-fuel heat pump with a furnace system alternates between using electricity to power the heat pump and gas or oil to power the furnace. Outside temperatures are the catalyst for the change within the system.

Cold Weather Operation

As long as the temperature is above 35 degrees F or so, a heat pump can pull heat from the outside air. Under ideal conditions, it can transfer 300 percent more energy than it consumes. So, during cooler seasons like fall and spring, the heat pump handles the heating duties.

The dual-fuel system still incorporates the furnace but does not use burners, just its air distribution features. The heat pump sends hot “refrigerant” through the furnace’s air conditioning coil. The furnace fan draws air from the home’s cold-air returns, blows that air over the warm coil and then sends the warmed air throughout the house.

The furnace kicks in for only the coldest months. “In Massachusetts, your thermostat makes the switch to the furnace when it’s 32 degrees outside or colder,” Hogan says.

Warm Weather Operation

As shown in the photo above, an air-source heat pump is basically a hybrid air conditioner. Both have a compressor (a high-pressure pump) that circulates refrigerant (a volatile gas) through indoor and outdoor coils, a network of tubes designed to facilitate the capture and release of heat.

But while an air conditioner can move refrigerant in only one direction, a heat pump can force refrigerant in either direction, for heating one way and cooling the other. The pump does this by means of an extra diverting device called a switchover valve. In the summer, the heat pump reverses the refrigerant flow so cold liquid flows over the coil and cools your home just like a conventional air conditioner.

Will a Heat Pump with a Furnace System Work for Your House?

To figure out whether a heat pump is practical for your home, you’ll need to contact a heating contractor.

• Start with a heating and cooling load analysis. Don’t trust the label on the old furnace; ask your installer to measure and double-check the math. Home improvement projects (new insulation, new windows or an addition) can change your heating and cooling needs.
• Conduct a comparative cost analysis. If you live in an area with lower-priced natural gas and sky-high electrical rates, a heat pump will not pay itself off as quickly. Your installer can factor in local energy rates (including peak and off-peak electrical rates) to calculate your potential savings and payback.
• Ask about compatibility. Dual-fuel heat pumps are designed to be straightforward A/C replacements, but older furnaces probably won’t work with a new switch-hitting system. “It will need to be determined whether the current furnace can be controlled together with the new heat pump equipment,” Siv says.

How Much Does a Heat Pump with Furnace Cost?

A dual-fuel heat pump with a furnace will cost more than a furnace and A/C install. “A typical gas furnace with an air conditioner will be between $8,000 to $10,000,” Hogan says. “Expect to pay between $12,000 to $15,000 for a dual-fuel heat pump with furnace installation.”

What Tax Credits Are Available for Heat Pumps?

In addition to saving money in the long run, a dual-fuel heat pump might pay you back right away. This upgrade may qualify for an energy-savings tax credit plus rebates. Ask your utility company and HVAC installer about available incentives in your area.

FAQ

What are the downsides to a heat pump?

Heat pumps on their own are not effective in very cold temperatures. While more effective when paired with a furnace, Siv points out that the higher installation cost of a heat pump with furnace system is the main downside. “It’s a great system upgrade if you can afford it,” he says.

At what temperature do heat pumps become ineffective?

Generally, heat pumps are ineffective at 35 degrees F or colder.

Can heat pumps cool your house in 100-degree weather?

Most heat pump models can effectively cool your house in outside temperatures up to 115 degrees F.

What’s the “20 degree rule” for heat pumps?

Never set your thermostat for more than 20 degrees cooler than it is outside. So, if it’s 90 degrees F outside, the thermostat should not be set any lower than 70 degrees F.

About the Experts

• Alexander Siv owns Amherst Heating and Plumbing in Amherst, Massachusetts. He has a master plumber’s license in Massachusetts and more than 10 years of plumbing experience.
• Liam Hogan is the owner of Hogan Mechanical Incorporated a full-service residential and commercial plumbing and heating company in Springfield, Massachusetts. He has ten years of industry experience.

Dishwashers are game changers in the kitchen. They speed up cleanup and mostly automate an otherwise time-consuming chore. But they’re also prone to some of the same plumbing issues as your sink and other drains. If your dishwasher’s air gap is spewing water, it’s time for some plumbing repairs.

What causes a dishwasher air gap clog?

An air gap prevents dirty dishwater from backflowing into fresh water lines. But ground-up food and grease can build up inside the air gap and form a clog over time.

Why do I need to get my dishwasher air gap clog repaired?

This clog can cause water to shoot out of the air gap, making a mess over your counters and potentially flooding the area under your sink.

You’ll need to fix this problem sooner rather than later or else what started as a simple clog could end up being a lot of water damage. If water squirts out the air gap’s vent holes or you notice a foul smell coming from it, it’s time to clean it. Fortunately, this repair is easy and doesn’t require a specialist or fancy tools. All you need is a bottle brush and some household disinfecting cleaner.

How to Fix a Dishwasher Air Gap That’s Spewing Water

• Yank the cover off the dishwasher air gap and remove the snap-in or screw-on diverter.
• Remove any loose food particles.
• Soak the bottle brush in household cleaner and plunge it up and down into the air gap.
• This should clear the clog, but sometimes the backup is further down. If you still have a water leak after cleaning the air gap, clean the drain line where it meets the garbage disposer or drain wye (aka “Y”).
• Once the clog is cleared, wipe everything down and then reassemble the air gap vent.

You’ve solved your problem and saved yourself the headache of repairing water damage and deep cleaning your kitchen after running your dishwasher.