Protecting Your Home and Your Pocket
(ARA) ' Spring is nearly here. Time to crack open the windows and clean the
screens. Does your looming list of spring cleaning also involve home improvement
projects? If not, consider adding energy-saving techniques to the list and you'll
spare yourself the shock of this season's high energy bills.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts that once again residential
energy costs will be on the rise, so start your home improvements by inspecting
for interior or exterior areas that could cause your energy bills to escalate.
Air leaks are the leading cause of home cooling loss. 'Most homeowners don't
realize that there are holes, gaps and cracks around the foundation, window and
door frames, electrical outlets and plumbing lines. Even under the siding and in
the basement,' explains Kevin Huber, project manager for a home builder in the
DC-metro area. 'By sealing these areas, the problem can easily be fixed.'
Fixing these problem areas shouldn't break your pocketbook though. 'With a 400
percent increase in heating and cooling costs over the past decade, air-sealing
your home is just one of many ways to save money and make your home more
comfortable,' says Jeff Fancher, global brand manager for foam sealants at Dow.
One of the simplest ways to seal cracks is with Great Stuff Insulating Foam
Sealant by The Dow Chemical Company.
Fancher recommends the following home improvement tips to make your home more
comfortable and energy-efficient:
Uneven Room Temperatures
Because only 20 percent of homes built before 1980 are well insulated, uneven
room temperatures are a common complaint with older homes. This issue can be
traced to air leakage, a poor HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning)
distribution system and insufficient insulation. The solution may be as easy as
checking your HVAC system, installing proper insulation or air-sealing all areas
that contribute to air leakage in the affected area.
Insulation and Air Sealing
If you feel uncomfortably cold in the winter or hot in the summer, or if you own
an older home and haven't added insulation, consider doing an energy audit to
check the insulation levels. Additional insulation can protect against air
leaks, control moisture and save you 10 percent or more on your energy bills,
according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Mold, Mildew and High Humidity
In areas like the attic, humid air may become trapped inside the windows,
producing condensation, and could eventually lead to mold and mildew. When left
unchecked, it can cause wood to rot and could lead to respiratory problems for
those with sensitivities and allergies. To minimize the problem, air-seal and
insulate gaps between the attic and living quarters.
An added benefit to insulating your home is a reduction in pesky insects. 'Aside
from sealing gaps and cracks, a permanent foam sealant will close open pathways
where insects enter the house,' added Fancher.
Great Stuff Insulating Foam Sealant is available in three different varieties:
Gaps and Cracks for voids up to 1-1/2 inches wide; Big Gap Filler, a
triple-expanding formula for larger holes; and Window and Door, which forms a
soft, flexible seal without exerting pressure in the frame.
For more information and energy-saving tips, visit
www.dowgreatstuff.com .
If you are looking for a Minneapolis HVAC contractor, please call us today at (952)933-1868 or complete our online request form.
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