Saturday, January 21, 2012

Tips To Decrease Your Energy Bills This Winter By Draught Proofing Your Apartment

By Damian Hounslow


An energy-efficient home is one that most of us would like to have, but simply don't take the time necessary to achieve. However, draught proofing your home will reduce your energy bills quite dramatically as you will see below.

A big problem needs to be attended to quickly in order to really cut your consumption and ultimately the bills, but even the smallest holes have a huge impact on the energy that's lost. The first step involved in finding the leaks is with a lit stick of incense. Wait for the right weather conditions to get the best results, it should either be extremely cold or very windy. Then, it's a matter of observing the disturbance of smoke, if any in the various areas being inspected.

Then, it is a matter of sealing the gaps. By doing so, every room will feel more comfortable and there will be a reduction of heat loss by up to 10% which is a huge amount on a heating bill. All the materials necessary could be easily found at any hardware store.

Just do the math to see exactly how much you'll be saving with this 10% reduction and then multiply it to see how much you'll be saving over the many years to come. It's safe to say that it is a very worthwhile investment.

Make sure to check the doors, windows, electrical outlets, plumbing connections to the wall as well as the dryer exhaust with the stick of incense. Additionally, do the same tests along the fireplace if this feature exists in the home. Surprisingly, it can lose anywhere between five to 8% of the energy.

As most people don't use their fireplaces on a daily basis, it is recommended to make a removable seal which is done with an inexpensive 2 inch piece of Styrofoam. The seal can be made more attractive by covering it with a fabric that matches the room. This tip can only be used on wood burning fireplaces, so if you have a gas burning fireplace consult a professional. Also, make sure that the flue is always closed when not being used.

The windows always need special attention because they are the draftiest of all in many cases. A quick tip is to use heavy weighted drapes or wide slat vertical or horizontal blinds. However, a thorough treatment of foam sealant or caulking would be ideal.




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