Have you ever found your energy bill was much higher than you expected? Or that it is significantly increasing with each bill? There are many reasons why your energy bill fluctuates, and of course the more you use your heating or cooling systems, the higher your bill. However, if your bills are higher than normal, it is very likely your air conditioning unit is working overtime. The common culprit? Poor insulation and air leaks throughout the home. Learn how proper insulation and sealing air leaks can keep your home more comfortable all year round.
Air Sealing
Most homes experience some form of air leakage, which is where outside air enters your home and conditioned air exits your home. These air leaks cause your heating and cooling system to work much harder in order to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, which in turn spikes your energy bill. Reducing or eliminating air leaks means your home will maintain a consistent temperature, saving you money in the process. Air typically leaks through:
Unsealed or poorly sealed doors and windows
Poorly designed airlocks
Unsealed vents, skylights and exhaust fans
Gaps in or around ceiling insulation and around ceiling penetrations
Gaps around wall penetrations (pipes, conduits, power outlets, switches, air conditioners and heaters)
Gaps between envelope element junctions (e.g. floor−wall or wall−ceiling)
Poorly fitted or shrunken floorboards
When it comes to poorly sealed windows, oftentimes replacing the window is your best and most cost-effective option. At Greenawalt Roofing, we can review all the options and styles to help you make the best choice for your home. We recommend and install MI windows and doors which are manufactured in the United States and backed by a Limited Lifetime Customer Assurance Warranty.
How to fix air leaks
Caulking and weather-stripping are two of the more common ways to fix air leaks. Weather-stripping is the process of sealing the openings around doors and windows to prevent air from entering and escaping. This includes any material that helps block air flow such as foam, vinyl, felt and tape. Caulk is a multipurpose material that seals air leaks created by gaps, cracks and joints. It is ideal for sealing cracks less than 1-quarter-inch wide. Or, if air leakage is primarily coming from your window, it might be time to get them replaced.
Insulation
Insulation stops the transfer of heat; in winter it stops cold air from outside penetrating inside, and vice versa during summer. Properly installed and efficient insulation is the staple of an energy efficient home.
Contact Greenawalt Roofing Company today for a FREE estimate on getting your windows replaced!
