Every winter people look for ways to improve their home efficiency to reduce heating costs. Last month I discussed heating systems and insulation. This month I will quickly touch on weather proofing and occupant lifestyles.
Weather Proofing Advice: Gaps in the building envelope allow warm air out and cold air in. On a cold day try burning an incense candle and take it around your home. Let the smoke pass around the edges of exterior doors, windows, electrical power outlets and anywhere else you suspect a draft. If you see the smoke trying to escape, there is likely an air gap costing you money. Exterior doors have weather-stripping around the edge and the door sweep (under the bottom of the door) that need replacing or adjusting over time. Windows often need caulking every few years on the exterior. Interior window trim should be sealed too. Power outlets that are on an exterior wall should have a gasket to prevent air escaping. Don’t forget the attic hatch, the back of it should be insulated and the edges need weather-stripping. Wood burning fireplaces not in use should have their damper closed. If the fireplace is never used, consider having it sealed.
Lifestyle Advice: Changing the way you live can reduce your heating needs. Let in the southern light, since direct sunlight comes in through our southern windows. Use heavy curtains, the more you can see through the curtains the easier heat can radiate (leak) out. Are you walking around in a t-shirt and shorts at home? Try socks, slippers, track pants and a sweatshirt, rugs for cool flooring and a couple of soft blankets on the couch for watching TV. If you can lower the thermostat a couple of degrees by bundling up you will reduce your heating bill. If you’re not home during the day, get a programmable thermostat and set it to 19-20 degrees while you’re out and during the middle of the night. If your bedrooms are cool it may be because your leaving the doors closed during the day. Leave them open. Hot air rises and will keep the room warmer so you won’t feel the need to turn up the heat before you go to bed. If you don’t use every room in the home, you can close vents so that you’re not heating those spaces. If you only use one room for most of the day, a space heater may be better than heating up the whole home.
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Written By: Steven Silva Sales Representative with Royal LePage Your Community Realty