Homes in Fairplay, MD, with poor insulation or improper constructions constitute a significant concern regarding heat loss. Consequently, most homeowners crank up the heating systems during winter, which results in higher energy bills. Here are seven places where your home loses the most heat:
Gaps in Walls, Windows and Doors
The tiny holes in the walls, windows and doors are significant sources of heat loss in your home. These drafts contribute to 38% of the total heat loss in your home and deserve serious attention. Putting it into perspective, 1/8 of an inch crack under a 36-inch-wide exterior door can cause air loss equivalent to a 2.4-inch diameter hole on the wall.
You may need expert help to determine where the holes are as they’re not usually visible to the naked eye. The best remedy for this issue is weatherstripping all moving parts and proper wall insulation.
Windows
Glass windows are a poor insulator of heat, causing about 10% of heat loss in your home through radiation. For this reason, you’ll notice it’s generally colder when you stand by a window.
You can correct the loss by installing triple-glazed panes or storm windows that reduce the loss by 10-20%. You may also invest in plastic sheets that help reflect heat. Consider using drapes or curtains to limit the amount of heat loss by direct exposure to the windows.
Framed Walls
Over time, the various kinds of insulation lose effectiveness, which eventually means you’ll need to replace or upgrade them. Consequently, your home will lose heat through walls due to contact with its surroundings. Fortunately, there are various options for insulation you can add to the existing insulation without having to do a significant renovation.
You may decide to use fiberglass, mineral insulation, spray foam or loose-fill cellulose. However, hire professionals since this isn’t a simple DIY project.
Ceilings
The attic is a popular spot to fit vents, pipes or ductwork, making it culpable for tiny holes. Therefore, you must seal these points completely to avoid further heat loss. You may need additional insulation if the current thickness of your insulation falls below 11 inches of fiberglass/wool or below eight inches of cellulose.
Recessed Lighting Fixtures, Electrical Wiring and Pipes
Electricians install wiring and lighting fixtures through hollow openings on the walls or ceilings, leaving behind small holes. You can correct these issues by installing gaskets for lighting fixtures, electrical receptacles and switches. Use spray foam to seal and prevent air loss along plumbing, wiring outlets and inlets.
Basement Walls and Subfloors
The basement walls contribute to nearly 20% of the heat loss in your home, while the subfloor can cause a 1% loss. The main reason is due to poor insulation on the cement below. To fix this issue, improve your home’s thermal resistance (R-Value) by adequately insulating your basement.
However, if this job proves to be difficult, consider concrete blocks, fiber, blankets, foam board or reflective foil insulation. Expanding spray foam will work best for the basement’s duct, plumbing or vent holes.
Doors
Shockingly, the doors contribute the least to energy losses in your home. However, we can’t completely rule them out during a heat loss audit. If the audit suggests you have heat loss by your door, it’s time to purchase another door.
We recommend using Energy Star steel or fiberglass when considering a new door purchase. These materials are better insulators compared to glass and wooden doors.
Whereas all homes lose heat, an energy audit helps pinpoint the loss’s exact location. If you live in Fairplay, contact Hagerstown Heating & Cooling for heating, maintenance, home zoning automation and HVAC installation services.
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