Gaps around doors, windows and pipes let heated or cooled air escape. Sealing them is one of the cheapest fixes.
Find leaks
- On a windy day, hold a lit incense stick near doors, windows and outlets and watch for the smoke to move
- Look for daylight around doors
- Check the attic hatch, pipe openings and around the dryer vent
Seal them
- Weatherstripping for doors and windows that open
- Caulk for gaps that don't move
- Door sweeps for gaps under doors
- Foam gaskets behind outlet covers on outside walls
Make sure fuel-burning appliances like furnaces and water heaters have enough air to vent safely. If unsure, ask a professional. Savings Lantern isn't paid by any utility, energy supplier, installer or product maker.