Weatherization Tips for Your Home

Place caulk or foam between the electrical box and drywall on switches and outlets located on exterior walls. Then place these foam gaskets behind the plates for a good, airtight seal.

Promote energy conservation and child safety by keeping drafts and your child’s favorite toys away from unused electrical outlets.

If you have an attic access located within your home, make sure the access door is insulated and seals tight, much like a refrigerator. Use weather-stripping and screen door latches for a snug seal.

Caulk is best for gaps and cracks less than about one-quarter inch wide. If the caulked joint will be visible, consider using a paintable caulk. Use a high-quality caulk to ensure durability and longevity.

Seals windows airtight, eliminates condensation, cold drafts and heat loss. The kit contains enough plastic shrink film and two-way tape to cover four average size windows. Use tape to hold the plastic film in place and then use a hair dryer to shrink film to form a smooth, tight finish inside a storm window.

A family of four each showering five minutes a day can use about 700 gallons of water per week. Water conserving showerheads and faucet aerators can cut hot water use in half, saving that family 14,000 gallons of water a year.

Insulated pipes keep the hot water that exists in the pipes warmer, meaning you won’t have to wait as long for hot water – reducing waste.

Silicone caulk helps fill cracks and gaps where air can enter or escape your home.

Help keep cold air out of your basement or crawl space by covering vents during the winter. Foundation vents help keep your floors warmer and ultimately heating bills down.

Turn off or lower the flow of your shower when you need less. Perfect for reducing water waste when shaving.

The insulation R-value you need depends on the climate and your heating and cooling system, but the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness.