Winter is just around the corner. As the days grow shorter and the weather cools, homeowners are beginning to think about weatherizing their homes against the winter ahead.
"It's never too late to think about weatherizing your home," said Loup Power District's New Business Supervisor Rick Cheloha.
ENERGY STAR, a nationwide energy efficiency program sponsored by the EPA and the US Department of Energy (DOE) offers helpful tips to improve energy efficiency on its Web site at www.energystar.gov.
One of the most economical ways area residents can improve energy efficiency in residential and commercial properties is by properly sealing and insulating the structure. According to ENERGY STAR, homeowners can potentially save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs, or as much as 10% on their total annual energy bill, by improving the sealing and insulation of their home.
Easy-to-find air leaks and drafts are those that can be felt around doors and windows. Air leaks in attics, basements and crawl spaces may require more effort to discover. Sealing as many of these leaks as possible with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping can have a significant impact on improving comfort and reducing utility bills.
The agency encourages property owners to always have a heating and cooling technician check to make sure any gas or oil fueled appliances are venting properly after any home sealing project. All the experts agree adequate insulation helps keep the home warm in winter and cold in summer.
Common types of insulation include batt or blown fiberglass, cellulose, rigid foam board and spray foam. When correctly installed along with air sealing, each type of insulation can deliver lower energy bills during the hottest and coldest times of the year. Adding insulation to the attic is often the most effective way to increase energy savings.
A quick way to learn if more insulation is needed is to look across the uncovered attic floor. If the insulation is level with or below the attic floor joists, more insulation may be needed.