While it’s well-known that homes require insulation to mitigate heat loss through walls, ceilings and floors, the concept of air sealing is often less understood. Yet, the Green Building Advisor states that, “one third of the energy you pay for probably leaks through holes in your house.”
Air leaks occur when outside air enters and conditioned air leaves your house uncontrollably through cracks and openings. In addition to wasting energy, air leaks may contribute to moisture problems, and poor indoor air quality (U.S. Department of Energy, 1999).
Air sealing will save you money on heating and cooling costs, improve system longevity, and increase occupant comfort. It will also help to create a healthier indoor environment. Air sealing doesn’t require much effort, and is generally very cost-productive.
Air Sealing Measures
Some measures you can do yourself include:
- Caulking around windows and doors
- Installing foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates
- Installing weatherstripping around windows and doors (include the garage door)
- Replacing door bottoms (thresholds) with those that feature pliable gaskets
Other sources of air leaks, such as attic and lighting fixture penetrations, are best addressed by a professional. Before beginning any of these measures, it is a good idea to have a comprehensive energy audit performed, which includes both a visual inspection and thermal imaging scan. An energy audit can detect cold spots, air leaks and intrusion, energy-hogging appliances, and insufficient insulation levels.
Save with Energy Upgrade Rebates
Good news! There are several energy upgrade rebates available that make air sealing substantially more affordable. Eligible homeowners can recoup 75% of their project costs; up to $250 for air sealing and up to $400 for insulation through SRP. To check eligibility requirements, click here. We are an SRP Certified Contractor. APS and Electrical District No. 3 offer similar rebates.
Another possible solution, if your current windows are in good shape, or if you’re renting your home, is installing some storm windows. “Low-e” or low emissivity windows can increase energy efficiency and indoor comfort at about twenty five percent of the cost of replacing the whole window. A storm window that is not low-e can still help you save energy and money, but using low-e windows is much more cost effective. They pay for themselves in an average of two to four years. They can save you 12-33 percent on your energy bills over the course of a year. Utility companies may even offer incentives to install them in your home!
efficient replacement windows. If the cost of this option is too prohibitive for you, don’t fear, there are a few other less costly options you can try. Caulking and weatherstripping are two of the more inexpensive methods of correcting drafty windows. Thermal draperies can also be used, but keep in mind that if your windows are drafty, draperies will not correct that issue.
insulating material that is encased in a wood or metal frame that attaches to the interior side of the window frame with magnets or Velcro. These types of panels completely obstruct the view from the windows that they cover. Another effective option to consider is window film. While window film does not obstruct your view, it does prohibit you from opening the window until you remove the film.