7 tips to cut your energy costs: How to Find and Fix the Hidden Energy Leaks Are hidden energy leaks costing you money on heating and cooling your home? How to find (and fix) them: Seal Air Leaks – Eliminating drafts can save you from 5% to 30% on your annual energy costs. Check for gaps anywhere different building materials meet, along baseboards, where the flooring meets the wall and the junctures of walls and the ceiling. Upgrade Insulation – Get a thermographic inspection to determine if you have adequate insulation or if your insulation has settled or been compromised by moisture damage. Fill the Gaps – Use expanding foam insulation or caulk to fill any gaps and holes in exterior walls. Add weather stripping to windows and install foam outlet gaskets on exterior electrical outlets. Insulate Attic Hatches – Seal and insulate access hatches to your attic space. Prebuilt hatch and attic stair covers are available, or you can make your own using foam board. Address Windows and Doors – In cooler climates, add weatherstripping and install shrink-wrap to large windows or patio doors. In warmer climates, use window coverings to reduce solar gain. Cover the Water Heater – Add a water heater blanket or consider upgrading to a more energy efficient model. Insulating a water heater can reduce standby losses by 25 to 45 percent. Use Landscaping – Plan your landscaping to help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures both in the summer and the winter. Strategically planted shade trees prevent overheating, while dense windbreaks protect against cold winds.
Posted on: Fri, 25 Oct 2013 18:02:46 +0000