Visualize an inflated balloon. Now I want you to keep the air inside it warm. What are your options? You could put a blanket over it and the air would stay warm for awhile. One thing for sure is you don’t want any holes in it. All it takes is one and all is lost.
This balloon is your home. The more holes you have the more your heating system is working and the larger the hole in your checkbook! In many instances air infiltration is more costly than inadequate insulation.
Is your home drafty? Do you see condensation on your windows? Does it appear a cobweb manufacturer has taken residence in your home? All these are indications of air infiltration. So, what to do?
A common belief is that windows and doors are the biggest problem when it comes to air leakage. Chances are this is not true in your home. Some of the most significant losses occur in areas you may not notice, such as in attics, basements and crawl spaces, under and above porches and in garage walls. Following are some do it yourself tips.
First, survey the exterior of your home. You will find many penetrations leading into your living space. Look for holes for electrical outlets, dryer vents, outside water faucets etc. Are the holes sealed around the perimeter? Next, look at where your wood framed walls meet the foundation. Gaps and spaces may not be readily visible but rest assured they are there! These areas can be easily addressed. For gaps or holes ¼” or less fill with caulking. If the area you are sealing is going to be painted in the future get a paintable caulk.
If the holes are larger than ¼” then a spray foam is recommended. A high expansion foam is good for large holes where a large void needs to be filled. You want to use a low expansion foam around windows and doors to prevent excess pressure that could interfere with their functionality.
Here’s a big one. During construction many pathways were created for electrical and plumbing purposes. Many of these start in the basement and end in the attic. This creates a chimney effect in which warm air and your cash freely flow in a direction you may not like, unless of course you want to leave your mark on the world as a large carbon footprint! So, get dirty and save by climbing around your attic and basement and sealing openings around wiring and plumbing. CAUTION; many of these caulking and foam products are flammable so don’t use them around heating exhaust pipes, recessed lighting or ANYTHING THAT COULD GET VERY HOT! Let the pros handle those areas.
A professional Home Energy Audit will provide you with a thorough assessment of problem areas, a plan to resolve them and a projection of your savings.This in conjunction with the services of an accredited Home Performance contractor can save you up to 40%+ on your energy bills.You can also get some great tips from “Cut Your Energy Bills Now,” by Bruce Hurley.

Patrick Maloney
Energy Management Solutions