Plug those air leaks! How to seal your home for summer.
You have most likely heard of “winterizing” during the fall to keep out the cold air during the winter. But, did you know that it’s just as important to seal your home for summer? Although a blast of warm air may not seem as noticeable, your electric bills and home comfort will take a hit. Warm air that creeps in during the summer creates hot spots and lowers efficiency.
Here are some things that can result from a leaky home during the summer:
- Increases cooling costs. Air leaks can mean that your home won’t reach temperature as fast, especially if the leak is right next to your thermostat. Because of this, your air conditioner will run longer and run up your utility bill!
- Uneven temperatures galore. Do you have that one room that won’t get cool? That may be due to poor insulation or poorly sealed windows and doors. You’re paying to have a cool home, you should be able to enjoy that comfort EVERYWHERE in your home.
- Lowers indoor air quality. Yuck! Think about all the air that is leaking in through your windows and doors unfiltered. Your indoor air can already be more polluted than outdoor air – don’t make it worse.
So, what can you do to seal your home for summer? Well, use things like caulk, weather stripping and foam gaskets to stop minor air leaks. Also, make sure you have closed your chimney damper. If these Band-Aids aren’t helping, it may be time to hire a professional to take a look at your insulation.
What are your tricks for sealing your home for summer (or winter)?