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By BETH STOUT
Extension Agent
As the temperature begins to drop along with the falling leaves, Rappahannock County residents will once again be concerned with keeping the warm air in their homes. Reducing the number of air leaks in your house and effective insulation will help you to not only have a warmer home but also save money.
According to the U.S. Depart ment of Energy, air leaks in your house may account for 1/3 to 1/2 of your heating and cooling bill. In most cases, air leaks around windows and doors have already been sealed. There are other places where air leaks out of your house that may be very costly.
Electrical outlets and switches should be checked for leaks. Remove the cover plates and seal air leaks by placing foam gaskets behind the outlet plates.
The holes surrounding pipes and electrical wiring, particularly those under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms should also be checked for leaks. Use caulk to seal up the holes.
Fireplace dampers that are not tightly fit are another costly waste of energy. Warm and cool room air can leak out through the cracks. When the fireplace is not used, stuff the gap with insulation, but remember to remove it when using your fireplace.
Fireplace covers or glass doors are effective in preventing warm air from escaping outdoors. Decorative covers can be made out of plywood or sheet metal. The plywood covers should not be used w hen the fire is dying out.
Attic doors and trap doors that do not fit tightly should also be sealed to prevent heat from leaking out of the house. Insulation and weatherstripping can be used to alleviate this problem.
Materials around the home such as rags, rugs, newspapers, plastic and tape may also provide temporary seals for the air leaks depending on their location.
Effectively insulating your home is another necessary measure in reducing your energy costs. Knowing several basics and something about the different types of insulation can help you choose the most cost effective home insulation.
Some of the basics are understanding the “R-value" of insulation, knowing which places to insulate and how much insulation to use, knowing the importance of using moisture-vapor barrier with any insulation, and knowing about types and forms of insulation along with possible related problems.
Homeowners who already have ample insulation installed in their homes might consider other measures. Caulking and weatherstripping, treating windows and glass areas or selecting and maintaining energy-efficient heating and cooling systems would be practical projects. It is generally more economical to
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