Home with Dean Sharp

Dean continues discussing air conditioning alternatives, focusing on the importance of using fans effectively inside the home. He also explains the benefits of whole-house fans, detailing how they can significantly reduce the need for air conditioning by pulling in cool night air and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the day.

Dean has a serious discussion about paint and painting and everything you need to know. Dean is joined by a Benjamin Moore employee, David Vaughan, as he talks about the company and the different types of paint brands. Dean provides advice on painting and masking tape to avoid paint splashing when painting. Deans talk about the art and science of painting. 

Dean takes calls and helps a caller dealing with a flood of water in the garage. A Benjamin Moore employee joins Dean, David Vaughn, again as he discusses the company and where to purchase their paint. David Vaughn shares what makes Benjamin Moore paint different from other brands in the paint market. Dean talks about taping and when/how to remove it when finished painting. Dean explains what primer is and what it’s used for. 

Dean helps a caller with a resolution when dealing with their home, which suffers cracks frequently due to the proximity of the property being close to the ocean. Dean gives a caller information on adding a wooden garage door and its longevity span. David Vaughn shares Benjamin Moore’s latest and greatest new items for 2024 available from the company. Dean suggests purchasing the best paint that you can afford. Dean wraps up with more quick tips on types of paint and painting.

It's an all-calls show! Dean takes calls from listeners, including one about a new construction project with a steam shower. Dean advises on using removable teak for the bench area to prevent moisture and mildew issues. Another caller asks about building a retaining wall, and Dean provides detailed guidance on DIY options, including using interlocking blocks and the need for permits based on soil retention.

It's hour 2 of an all calls show! Dean takes calls from listeners, including a question about managing a hillside driveway slope for an ADU project and another about pressure regulator issues causing inconsistent water pressure in a home.

Dean kicks off part two of "Staying Cool" weekend, emphasizing the importance of addressing AC issues as they arise. He recaps key tips from yesterday, such as running the AC longer to reduce power spikes and improve dehumidification, which enhances evaporative cooling for the body.

Diving deeper, Dean explains that AC systems are complex and depend on more than just equipment quality. He highlights that most HVAC problems are cumulative, involving factors like home insulation and window exposure. Dean reveals that 70% of homeowners are unhappy with their HVAC systems due to poor design and workmanship.

Finally, Dean discusses the importance of proper duct placement and sealing, noting that register placement is crucial for effective air circulation. He advises placing supply lines on the far side of rooms, away from return air vents, for optimal cooling.

Dean kicks off the second hour by taking calls, addressing questions about register placement to improve home temperature. He tackles issues with central air systems blowing weak and warm air, suggesting it might be time to call an AC repair professional to check the condenser or outside unit.

Dean explains that refrigerant should last the system's life, but pinhole leaks in the pipes can lead to a need for replacement. He also advises that AC systems function as dehumidifiers, but only when they're running.

Addressing another caller's inquiry, Dean discusses whether shutting doors can help AC efficiency. He generally advises against it, as the system is designed to service the entire home.

Finally, Dean recommends the Ecovent Whole Home System, which uses sensors to control vents and maintain air balance, providing an exception to the rule about not closing registers.

Dean continues with DIY home upgrades to enhance your AC unit, especially for those in the southern U.S. He suggests adding a UV light to keep the inside coil clean in humid climates.

Next, Dean addresses duct cleaning, advising not to worry unless there's a specific cause identified by your HVAC company. He emphasizes that duct leaks are a more critical issue and recommends considering aerosealing.

For older systems needing a compressor boost, Dean suggests a hard start unit, an affordable addition that helps the condenser start more efficiently.

Dean wraps up the hour by summarizing his top tips from the Staying Cool weekend.

Dean talks about everything you need to know about staying cool during this Summer. He talks about air conditioning and other things. Dean explains what the differences between heat and cold temperature. Dean talks about the heat of the sun and the temperature of the sun’s core. Also, how infrared energy is created. Dean explains the secret of shade and what it's all about. Lastly, Dean talks about moisture and the connection with air conditioners.