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Q. Our air conditioner shuts off periodically and drips water from pipes. How much will this cost to repair?

A. There are a number of things that could cause your unit to shut off periodically before it has reached the desired temperature of the thermostat. The problem could be anything from a simple short in a low-voltage wire to something major such as a failing compressor. The other problem of water dripping from pipes could be any number of things as well. The solution could be as easy as repairing a PVC drain line or something more expensive such as an insulating issue. The good news is that Aire Serv will come and diagnose your system and give you the cost of repairs before any work is done. You know the price before we start — that’s our promise! - PHILIP GORE, AIRE SERV, TEXAS

Q. How do you make a small kitchen look larger and have the best/more storage? - ANTONIETTE SCHMELZER, NEW JERSEY

A. The first question I would ask yourself is “Do I have the ability to provide more natural lighting?” Natural lighting always makes a space feel roomier and is not a difficult project for an experienced professional. It can be introduced in several ways, including skylights or solar tube lighting. Also, make sure you plan artificial lighting carefully to provide light in work spaces and accent the features of your cabinetry, countertops, and appliances.

Secondly, if you are planning new appliances in your remodel, try to work a counter-depth refrigerator into your budget. The extra nine or so inches a standard-depth refrigerator protrudes past the counter line into the floor space of a small kitchen makes a huge difference in the perception of space in the room.

Next, when selecting cabinetry, keep in mind that choosing the right storage options can double the storage capacity when compared to standard cabinets. Today’s modern cabinets offer a variety of features, from vertical “spice shelf” pullouts to rotating shelves to roll-out trays and more. Last, but not least, the colors and styles you choose for cabinets, wall treatments, and flooring will have a big impact on the feeling of space in the kitchen. Try to keep “the perception of space” in mind as you go through this selection process. - TOM JACKSON, DREAMMAKER BATH & KITCHEN, SOUTH CAROLINA

Q. How do you fix a leaky faucet? - PHYLLIS LONT, WASHINGTON

A. Generally, all the internal rubber components are replaced. Over time, they just wear out. Some faucets may require replacement of the seats and washers, some require a new control ball and seats, while others require a new cartridge. - KEITH GLASS, DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, MR. ROOTER CORPORATION, TEXAS

Q. We have an older home with only a few grounded outlets. Would it be worth it to ground the rest? How difficult is this? - SAMUEL COOPER, SOUTH CAROLINA

A. It is not uncommon for the ungrounded type outlet to be changed out for a grounded type outlet, even though there is no actual ground. (Physically, the outlets are the same size.) It can be very labor intensive to properly provide grounding to individual outlets. This type of work usually requires that the entire electrical system be brought up to current codes. Contact a qualified, licensed electrical contractor for more specifics in your locale. - JIM FOLTZ, MR. ELECTRIC SENIOR SERVICE PROFESSIONAL OF WACO, TEXAS

Q. Your thoughts, please, on electrical heat versus gas in an older home. Also, radiant heat versus forced air.

A. Historically, gas has been less expensive than electricity when using them both directly as fuel. However, in the past few years, electric heat pumps have gained reliability and efficiency while natural gas prices have continued to climb. The combination of these two factors has made electricity more cost-effective in many markets. Additionally, the price of electricity is less likely to have the vast fluctuations to which natural gas may be subject. A qualified local contractor will be able to provide you with a load analysis of your home and present a computerized cost comparison based upon fuel costs in your area.

Although radiant heat can be very comfortable and provide great individual room control, you will still need some sort of forced air system for air conditioning and indoor air quality. Generally speaking, the “double” costs associated with the installation of two separate systems usually outweighs the benefits.

Q. Is it possible to cut kitchen cabinets in order to insert glass panels to help update the kitchen? - FAITH MCKINNEY, INDIANA

A. I’ve been asked this question over and over again. The answer I give is always, “Yes, just about any modification is possible.” You could consider hiring a professional remodeling contractor or cabinet shop to do this for you if you don’t want to tackle this project on your own. I’ll assume that you like the style and color of your existing cabinetry and that your desire is to only modify a few of the doors and drawer fronts. You may want to check with a local glass shop prior to having your doors modified to inquire about the available glass styles, thickness, and installation and then pass that information along to whoever is doing the work for you. By doing this, you’ll eliminate potential problems when the time comes to install the glass panels whether by you, a contractor, or a glass shop. - STEVE RICH, DREAMMAKER BATH & KITCHEN, WASHINGTON

Q. I want a tankless, electric water heater for our house. Do you recommend one? - ALBERT PROSKY, FLORIDA

A. Tankless water heaters can be a good way to decrease your energy usage, because you aren’t constantly heating a tankful of water. The gas models are very efficient and can handle a whole house. The electric models are mostly point-of-use, maybe for one remote sink. The whole-house models require a large amount of amperage (100 amps). This would require a new electric service to most homes and possibly a new electric panel. If you want to go tankless without natural gas, go propane. KEITH GLASS, DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, MR. ROOTER CORPORATION, TEXAS

Q. What is the best way to ensure energy efficiency in a home built circa 1931 on a pier and beam foundation? The wiring was updated in the early 1970s along with the siding, plus we have hardwood floors. - N. SMITH, TEXAS

A. The best way is to verify that you have adequate fiberglass insulation in your home. The condition and types of windows can influence energy loss, too. The age and condition of your appliances are also a factor. Older, worn-out air conditioners, refrigerators/freezers, and washing machine motors use more energy than newer, more efficient models. Quite often, your local utility companies will work with you to come up with a list of corrections and upgrades they recommend. - JIM FOLTZ, MR. ELECTRIC SENIOR SERVICE PROFESSIONAL OF WACO, TEXAS

Q. Is there a way to check your in-house air quality? - JUDITH HUGES, COLORADO

A. Numerous test kits are now available that allow building occupants to easily evaluate their environments for primary IAQ pollutants. These kits can be ordered, easily used as directed, and sent back to the laboratory for a complete analysis. A simple report is returned describing the results and showing how the air compares to recommended pollutant levels. Results can determine if the air appears normal or if a potential issue exists that needs to be fully evaluated.

More-extensive tests are available for advanced consultants or scientists that require the use of specialized materials and equipment. These tests cover molds and allergens, bacteria, aldehydes, VOCs (Vaporized Organic Compounds), pesticides, microbial VOCs, and more.

Q. Can you suggest some innovative new interior wall treatment ideas to replace wallpaper?

A. Fresh ideas for paint treatments include blocking, which is masking off sections of the walls in various patterns (horizontal or vertical bands, random rectangles, etc.) and then painting the sections different colors. An old technique that is new again is the use of Venetian plaster, giving layers of color and depth for “instant patina.” For kitchen backsplash walls: glass tiles, stainless steel, or other metal panels (can be plain or textured, quilted or perforated, or trimmed with nailheads). In bathrooms, full-wall mosaic tile murals can be contemporary or traditional, and are limited only by your imagination. - LYNN AND SANDY MONSON, DREAMMAKER BATH & KITCHEN, MINNESOTA

Q. We are getting pieces of paper/plastic from our water line to the upstairs bathroom. The water flow has also greatly diminished. Is it possible for plastic pipes to erode and flake? - LINDA SHUTTLESWORTH, ALABAMA

A. If this is a pipe problem, it should be occurring throughout the house. I have never known plastic pipe to flake. I would have to inspect this home before a diagnosis could be stated. KEITH GLASS, DIRECTOR OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, MR. ROOTER CORPORATION, TEXAS

Q. What electrical reading would you look for when purchasing a new home? - NANCY JOHNSON, GEORGIA

A. Current electric code requires that “any convenient outlet in the kitchen be GFI protected.” This would include your island plug. Keep in mind that current electric code provides that if any new or remodel work is performed in an area, the electricity in that area must be brought up to current code. Contact a qualified, licensed electrical contractor for more detailed information. - JIM FOLTZ, MR. ELECTRIC SENIOR SERVICE PROFESSIONAL OF WACO, TEXAS