Seal those leaks to save energy and money

                        
It’s no big secret that winters in Ohio are long and cold and summers are short and hot. To minimize energy usage and heating and cooling costs, it is essential to make the windows and doors energy efficient by sealing or replacing them. Heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, accounts for 56 percent of the energy used in typical U.S. homes. Heating uses 31 percent alone. A few simple updates can reduce both energy used and money spent. Energy Star is the rating system that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented to help consumers identify products that meet their energy savings criteria. Energy Star also provides a Learn More website that provides consumers with tips and techniques for saving energy and money. “The Learn More at energystar.gov uses a slightly different logo and provides guidance to homeowners on how to be more energy efficient,” said Jonathan Passe, communications coordinator, Energy Star residential programs. Energy Star calculates that sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make the home more comfortable and energy efficient while saving money. Most air leaks happen at doors, windows, and furnace ducts. Replacing doors and windows with new ones that are Energy Star rated is one option. Another solution is to find all of the windows, doors, and skylights that are leaking and then seal the leaky parts before insulating if appropriate. “We don’t always recommend that homeowners replace windows because there are other things they can do to reduce energy use. When they do decide to replace windows, we recommend purchasing Energy Star rated windows. The rating is per climate zone and homeowners in Ohio need to look at the Energy Star rating on windows for Ohio,” said Passe. Sealing can block outdoor pollutants from getting indoors and can reduce the noise levels from the outside. Products that can help include: Caulk, which is generally used to seal around windows, doors, skylights, and baseboards. High-temp caulk is used to seal around chimneys, furnace flues, and dryer vents. Expanding spray foam, slow expanding foam is used for smaller gaps and high-expanding foam is for larger holes. Weatherstripping can be installed around windows and doors to prevent drafts. Installing door sweeps on the bottom of doors can also prevent drafts. Several other low costs recommendations from Energy Star include: Installing a programmable thermostat that can adjust the house temperature either warmer or cooler when no one is home. Insulating heating ducts in unheated areas such as attics and crawlspaces prevents heat loss at the registers. Having the furnace and air conditioner serviced for cleaning and maintenance by a professional every year can also help save money and energy. For more information on finding and sealing leaks around the house, tips, and how-to’s, visit www.energystar.gov/homesealing.


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