Install foam gaskets behind the wall plug and switch plate covers. Each
little box lets in cold air, so it makes sense to reduce the draft with an easy
to install gasket that can be found at your favorite home store.
Poorly sealed ductwork can be another source of energy loss. While it is
more difficult to get to, fixing unsealed seams can prevent your heat from
flowing into the attic or under the house, thus wasting precious heat. Over
time ductwork seams tend to come apart, especially if they were originally
sealed with duct tape. Doing some detective work on you duct work and resealing
seams could actually save you up to 10% on your energy bill.
While some people recommend installing plastic sheeting over your windows to
prevent heat leakage, experts actually say it is better to caulk or weather
strip around windows with leakage issues. The plastic sheeting, while not very
attractive, makes it hard for the sun to shine through or for you see through
and it actually provides little insulation value. It is probably better to
remove screens for the winter so that sunlight can flow easily through,
providing passive solar heating during the daylight hours. If your windows are
really worn and hard to seal, it may be time to consider installing new, energy
efficient models. While this is definitely an expensive option, it will pay off
over time and it will enhance the overall value of your home.
Finally, check the damper on your fireplace or wood stove. Make sure that it
closes completely when you are not using the fireplace or stove, otherwise it
is like a large open window in the middle of your house.
Insulation: Check the
condition of the insulation in your attic. Because heat rises, the attic
is an especially important area for insulation. Often, homes that are more
than thirty years old have little or no insulation in the walls or
ceilings. While insulating inside the walls is a major renovation project,
most attics are fairly easy to access, so it is worth checking into. If
you need to install attic insulation, experts recommend using R-38 in the
ceilings.