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Energy Loss is Expensive
Though it is true that
a home should never be airtight, as it is
necessary for it to breath, so that structural
problems can be avoided as well as health
problems.
However, unless your home
is properly insulated with weather stripping,
caulking, and energy efficient windows and
doors, you could be spending between 20 to 50%
more on energy cost.
The following are some weatherproofing
solutions to help you reduce your energy cost
and make your home more energy efficient.
- Seal the seams
between the house and windows and doors
moldings with caulk.
- Ensure that windows
have weather stripping on all four sides.
Double-hung windows should also have weather
stripping between the two sashes.
- Replace cracked and
missing putty around windowpanes.
- Consider installing
energy efficient windows and doors, or storm
windows and doors.
- If you have storm
windows, then ensure that the weep hole on
the bottom of the frame is open. A clogged
hole traps moisture, causing fogged windows,
paint failure, and even rot.
- Make sure that all
exterior doors have weather stripping on
both sides, as well as on top and that there
is a sweep on across the bottom to stop air
from leaking in at the threshold.
- Check for cracks in
the foundation and siding, as these could be
a source of air leakage. Also, caulk around
plumbing and gas lines, wiring, such as
telephone lines and cable. In short, caulk
and seal all openings that you find.
- Install foam gaskets
behind all wall switches and receptacles
plates on all exterior walls as these are
notorious for leaking air.
- Keep your fireplace
flue closed when not in use.
- Check the amount of
insulation in your attic and crawlspace.
- Check with your power
company for a thorough energy audit.
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Home: Easy Do It
Yourself Heating
Passive Solar Heating
Tips for the Do-It-Yourselfer
Weathering the High Cost of Heating Your Home
Gas, Oil, Electric, and Solar: Which Heat is
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Energy Loss is Expensive
Insulation—How Much is Enough?
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