Revealing the Hidden Sources of Home Heat Loss

Even if your window and doors are sealed up tight, there may be other sources of heat loss that are not so easy to spot.

Warm air is something you want to keep in-house in the wintertime, but it seems like it's always trying to escape. Even if your windows and doors are sealed up tight, other sources of heat loss are not so obvious or easy to spot.

Fireplace

Your chimney is an outlet for the warm air generated by your furnace. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use and check the seal to make sure it's as snug as possible.

Air Ducts

Ductwork can develop gaps and poor connections over time. Seal accessible ductwork with mastic tape and insulate ducts in unconditioned spaces. Contact an HVAC pro if you suspect more serious issues.

Plumbing and Wiring

Gaps may occur where electrical lines, plumbing and pipes enter your home from the outdoors, typically in the attic or basement. Seal these areas with spray foam insulation, available at your local DIY retailer.

Get a Checkup

To optimize comfort and efficiency, consider a home energy assessment. A qualified energy advisor will inspect your home and provide you with a customized list of energy-saving recommendations.