Learn 4 Simple DIY Projects To Cut Your Energy Bill

Saving money on energy bills is a goal that every homeowner strives for, but few realize just how easy it can be. Windows on Washington has highlighted 4 DIY projects that will not only cut your energy bill but also increase the comfort of your home.

Seal Windows and Doors - Windows and doors are a primary means of drafts and air infiltration for your home. One of the best ways to save on your energy bill is to make sure that your windows are properly sealed.

• Caulk - Inspect the caulk around your windows and doors. Re-caulk any areas that are missing, dry or peeling.
• Weather Stripping – Make sure the weather stripping around your windows and doors has a tight seal. Replace old or faulty weather stripping.
• Locks – Engage the locking mechanism on your windows and doors to create the tightest seal possible for the unit. 
• Door Threshold – If you can see daylight under your door, you are watching your utility dollars flow right out of your house. Have your threshold adjusted so that there is a tight seal between the bottom of the door and your home. You may need to install a door sweep to reinforce this seal.

Air Seal Your Home - General air leakage throughout the home is rarely thought of as a place that you are losing energy dollars. Here are a few areas to consider sealing to save big on your energy bill.

• Electrical Boxes – These boxes on the exterior walls of your home are not typically insulated behind the plates, which causes air infiltration. Simply install foam gaskets behind the outlets and switch plates for an easy, affordable fix.
• Exhaust Fans and Vents - When vents and fans are not in use, they are most assuredly leaking air. Consider installing an insulation barrier or buying a removable magnetic cover to reduce air flow and help prevent leaks.
• Recessed Lighting - Recessed light fixtures are often installed without the proper surrounding insulation. To avoid any potential fire hazard, we suggest consulting with a professional before insulating these areas.
• Basements and Crawl Spaces - Adding insulation, where possible, can prevent the convection cycle of air infiltration in the home. 
• Gaps In Exterior Walls – There may be gaps around the pipes that come through your exterior walls. These gaps can be a source of considerable air leakage, but can be fixed with simple foam sealing.

Insulate Your Attic - The attic is one of the biggest culprits for air leakage and energy loss in your home.

• Attic Insulation - If your attic does not have the proper level of insulation for the climate conditions of your geographic region, you are throwing money away. If the insulation in your attic is less than 11 inches of fiberglass or 8 inches of cellulose, consider adding more to keep the cold air in during the summer and the warm air in during the winter. Consult local guidelines for maximizing the insulation value.
• Attic Hatch - Many homeowners invest in additional insulation for their attic, but leave the hatch exposed to air leakage. Adding weather stripping around the frame and 4 inch foam board to the hatch can help reduce this energy loss. If your attic hatch has attached stairs, an attic tent can also be effective.

Seal Your Chimney - A fireplace seems like the best thing to help keep your home warm, however it is one of the number one places in your home that causes increases in your energy bill due to air leakage.

• Damper – Keep your damper closed when not using your fireplace.
• Specialized Damper – Use a chimney balloon or a spring-loaded fireplace damper to close your chimney and prevent cold air from coming into your room.
• The experts at Windows on Washington are committed to educating home owners on the energy efficiency of their homes. For a professional analysis of your existing windows, doors or insulation, call our experts today for a free consultation. As always, we also provide free estimates for all your home improvement needs.