Tips for Cutting Energy Costs This Winter
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Household energy efficiency is an important
topic when you take into consideration that 44 percent
of your typical home energy bill goes toward heating
and cooling. Air leaks are a constant drain of energy
that can be equivalent to leaving a window wide open.
The makers of WindJammer, a removable weather sealant,
offer these suggestions for making household energy
more efficient.
1. Windows
The energy lost through windows
can account for as much as 10 to 25 percent of your
energy bill. While installing double-pane windows is
a viable option, a more cost-effective option is to
apply a clear, waterproof weather sealant. Using the
easy-to-use dispenser can, apply WindJammer along the
inside seal of the window. After the season, it’s
easily removed by peeling off in a continuous bead.
Total energy savings: $10 to $20
a year per window.
2. Doors
Doors are another source of energy
loss due to cracks in the bottom and on the sides. Purchase
flexible weather stripping for the door frames and keep
doors closed as much as possible when the heater is
on to prevent further energy loss. 3. Walls and roof
Properly insulating walls and
attics is an efficient way to reduce energy waste and
maximize your dollars. The easiest way to approach this
is to add insulation to your attic. Many hardware stores
have a wide selection of insulation and their staff
can direct you to the best insulation for your project.
If your attic has adequate insulation and your home
still feels cold in the winter or warm in the summer,
you may need to add insulation to the walls. Contact
a reputable contractor in your area who can assist you
with this project. This expensive measure can save up
to 30 percent on your electric bill and may be worth
the cost if you live in extreme climates.
4. Plumbing, ducting and electrical
wiring
These areas of the home account
for 30 percent of all air leaks. Simply seal air leaks
with WindJammer where plumbing, ducting, or electrical
wiring penetrates through exterior walls, floors, ceilings,
and soffits over cabinets. The product dries clear to
provide an air-tight, temporary seal. It is easily removable
and won’t damage most surfaces.
5. Ventilation fans, exhaust fans
and fireplaces
Vents, fans and fireplaces account
for 18 percent of energy loss. In just one hour, these
fans can pull out a houseful of warmed air. Turn fans
off as soon as soon as possible to conserve energy.
Chimneys are designed specifically for smoke to escape.
It is important to close the damper tightly when not
in use to prevent warm air from escaping.
Preventing air leaks before the
winter begins will pay off in lower energy costs and
a more comfortable living environment.
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