All Guides
Every guide we've published — 22 in total — on solar and battery storage, HVAC efficiency, and smart automation. Filter by topic or search for the number you're chasing.
22 guides
Two States Now Warn That Rebate Offers Are Probably Scams. Here's Why.
Minnesota and North Dakota both tell residents that unsolicited contact about home energy rebates is likely fraudulent. The reason is simple: the programs aren't open. Here's how to tell a real offer from a fake one.
6 min read
The Gas-to-Heat-Pump Rebate Is Gone. The Electric-to-Heat-Pump One Isn't.
DOE Program Notice 26-2 removed fuel switching from the HEAR rebates. Here's exactly what changed, who is still eligible, and what to do if your project is already underway.
6 min read
Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace: The Real 2026 Cost Comparison
Upfront cost, operating cost, and total cost of ownership for heat pumps vs. gas furnaces in 2026 — with the trade-offs most guides skip.
6 min read
What Does a 10kWh Home Battery Actually Cost in 2026?
A clear breakdown of home battery pricing in 2026 — hardware vs. installed cost, what drives the range, and why incentives are the biggest wildcard.
3 min read
Smart Plugs vs. Smart Thermostats: Where Should You Start?
If you're just beginning to cut your energy bill with smart home tech, here's which upgrade delivers more — and where to start.
3 min read
Home Battery vs. Backup Generator: Which Is Actually Better?
Battery backup and standby generators solve the same problem differently. Here's an honest comparison of cost, runtime, and which fits your situation.
3 min read
Heat Pumps in Cold Climates: Do They Actually Work Below Freezing?
Addressing the biggest myth about heat pumps — whether they still work in genuinely cold winters.
2 min read
Do You Need a C-Wire for a Smart Thermostat? (And What to Do If You Don't)
A plain-English guide to the C-wire — what it is, how to check if you have one, and your options if you don't.
3 min read
Do Smart Thermostats Actually Save Money? What the Data Shows
An honest look at real-world smart thermostat savings, beyond manufacturer marketing claims.
2 min read
How Long Will a Home Battery Actually Power Your House in an Outage?
How long a home battery lasts in a blackout depends on what you back up. Here's how to estimate your real runtime.
3 min read
Is a Whole-Home Battery Backup Worth It in 2026?
A practical breakdown of whole-home battery costs, payback periods, and when it actually makes financial sense.
2 min read
Ducted vs. Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps: Which Is Right for Your Home?
The choice between ducted and ductless heat pumps depends on your existing ductwork, layout, and budget. Here's how to decide.
3 min read
What Rebates Are Actually Available for Heat Pumps in 2026?
Heat pump incentives come in three layers — federal, state, and utility. Here's how they work and how to find what you qualify for.
5 min read
ecobee vs. Google Nest vs. Honeywell: 2026 Smart Thermostat Comparison
The three big smart thermostat brands, compared on room sensing, learning, HVAC compatibility, and price — to help you pick the right one.
4 min read
Energy Arbitrage Explained: How Batteries Can Pay for Themselves Without Solar
A home battery can earn its keep by buying cheap power and using it when power is expensive. Here's how energy arbitrage works — and when it's worth it.
3 min read
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in 2026 — And When Do They Pay Off?
Real 2026 solar pricing, what drives the cost per watt, and how to think about payback period for your home.
3 min read
How to Tell If Your HVAC System Is Properly Sized (Manual J Explained)
An oversized or undersized HVAC system wastes money and comfort. Here's what proper sizing means and how to know if yours is right.
4 min read
LFP vs. NMC vs. Sodium-Ion: Home Battery Chemistry Explained
The chemistry inside a home battery affects its safety, lifespan, and cost. Here's what the main types mean for homeowners in plain terms.
4 min read
How to Vet a Solar Installer: Questions to Ask and Red Flags to Avoid
Your solar installer matters more than your panel brand. Here are the questions to ask and the warning signs to walk away from.
3 min read
Smart Home Energy Monitors: Are They Worth the Investment?
Whole-home energy monitors show you exactly where your electricity goes. Here's how they work and whether they're worth it.
3 min read
Insulation vs. HVAC Upgrades: Which Should You Prioritize First?
Before spending on a new HVAC system, it's often smarter to fix your home's envelope first. Here's how to decide the right order.
3 min read
Signs Your HVAC System Needs Replacing vs. Just Repairing
Should you repair your aging HVAC system or replace it? Here's a practical framework for making the call.
3 min read
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