Ductless AC for Maine Capes and Colonials: A Smart Fit for Older Homes

June 1, 2026

Many older homes in Maine were built long before central air conditioning were common. While classic Cape Cod and Colonial style homes offer charm and character, they can also present challenges when homeowners want to improve summer comfort and energy efficiency. That’s one reason ductless mini-split systems have become such a popular cooling solution throughout Brunswick and surrounding communities. Ductless AC systems provide efficient cooling without needing existing ductwork, making them an excellent fit for older New England homes. Why Older Maine Homes Can Be Difficult to Cool Many Cape and Colonial homes were not

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Air Conditioner Short Cycling in Maine: Causes, Fixes, and When to Call a Pro

May 5, 2026

Homes in Brunswick, ME depend on reliable air conditioning throughout the stuffy summer months. Modern AC units are sturdy and reliable, providing you with true home comfort. However, an AC can suffer from a range of different issues. One of these issues is short cycling. This occurs when your air conditioning turns on and off frequently without cooling the home. More than a mere annoyance, this sign indicates that something is wrong with your system. At Dog House, we know all about ACs and the problems they face. Our AC maintenance can help prevent short cycling. We want

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Spring Water Heater Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

April 1, 2026

It’s normal for water heaters to work harder during the freezing winters in Brunswick, ME. You need to take time now to make sure your appliance is ready for spring and summer. Besides, risking leaks or cold showers could interfere with enjoying the warm weather activities you look forward to. Why Heavy Winter Use Causes Spring Water Heater Failures The water that flows from your well or municipal pipes is much colder during the winter in Maine than it is in the summer. This means your water heater works twice as hard to reach the desired

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Basement Humidity During Mud Season: Smart Ventilation Tips

March 1, 2026

Early spring often brings melting snow, saturated soil, and that familiar muddy stretch between winter and summer. During this transition, basements tend to feel damp and cool and smell slightly musty. At Dog House, in Brunswick, ME, we help homeowners adjust their HVAC and ventilation systems to handle shifting moisture levels before they turn into comfort or air quality problems. How Spring Thaw Changes Basement Conditions As snow melts and rainfall increases, the soil around your foundation becomes saturated. That moisture does not always enter as visible water. Instead, it raises the humidity level in

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Keeping Heat Pump Efficient During Maine’s Subzero Temperatures

February 2, 2026

Heat pumps are now outselling furnaces throughout the United States. It’s even more so the case in colder states like Maine due to the big energy savings they can provide. That said, The Pine Tree State experiences long, harsh winters that can be hard on a heat pump, especially when considering that interior areas of the state can experience as many as 60 subzero days annually. Let’s explore how you can ensure your system is as efficient as possible during those freezing weeks. Schedule a Fall Heating Tune-Up Every year, schedule heat pump maintenance early in the fall

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Simple Steps to Keep Your Pipes From Freezing in Coastal Maine

January 10, 2026

Winters can get bitterly cold in Maine, which means possibly dealing with frozen pipes in your home. Frozen plumbing will not only leave you without the use of your kitchen and bathroom sinks, but it could also do hundreds or thousands of dollars’ worth of damage if a pipe bursts. Fortunately, there’s plenty that you can do to keep your pipes from freezing or bursting this winter. Know When Pipes Can Freeze Water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but it usually needs to get colder than that for the water in your pipes to freeze. Your plumbing provides

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Tips for Avoiding Holiday Plumbing and HVAC Disasters

December 4, 2025

Plumbing and HVAC systems undergo a lot of wear and tear throughout the year. However, they’re especially strained during the holiday season. There’s typically an increase in cooking and entertaining, both of which can take their toll on your systems. Understanding some of the top ways to prevent problems can help keep your holidays merry and bright. HVAC System Proper heating is crucial in Brunswick, where January low temperatures can drop into the single digits. You can’t risk your HVAC system breaking down at the worst possible time. Following a few major tips can help get your system

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Common Winter Heating Myths Every Brunswick Homeowner Should Stop Believing

November 24, 2025

The winter weather in Brunswick, ME, means brisk winds, freezing temperatures in the morning, and a high demand for indoor comfort. When homeowners gear up for cold weather, they tend to rely on what they consider “best practices” for heating. But not everything we think about heating is true. A few popular suggestions yield higher energy bills, inconsistent heat, or even damage to the system. At Dog House, we know that being educated is the best way to protect not only your comfort but your wallet as well. Let’s uncover the truth behind the most common winter heating myths and help

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Prepare Your Plumbing for the First Frost: A Fall Guide

October 7, 2025

Winter in Brunswick, ME can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. When the mercury plummets, hose bibs and exposed, uninsulated pipes can freeze. With temperatures dipping well below freezing, homeowners who don’t prepare can contend with significant property damage. Fortunately, you can avoid burst pipes, water leaks, and more with the tips that follow. Check out our fall guide for priming plumbing systems for the region’s first frost. Disconnect Your Hoses and Drain Them Trapped water in outdoor hoses and faucets can freeze and expand. This could damage your hoses, your hose bibs, and the connecting water supply lines.

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When to Replace Your Furnace

September 5, 2025

Replacing a furnace is a significant investment, and it’s one that impacts your home’s comfort and efficiency for over a decade. If you’re planning to upgrade, timing is everything. Knowing when to act can help you make the most of your investment and avoid unnecessary stress. Here’s what to consider. The Best Time of the Year to Replace Your Furnace You should replace your furnace before it becomes inconvenient for you. Sure, you can do this any time of the year, but there are a few practical moments that may help you save money and spare

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