Winter is in full force in Oklahoma and you could be spending more money on your heating bill than you need to be. Drafty windows are one of the top ways for heat to escape your home. Making sure that windows are properly insulated is the best way to increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Test the windows in your home for drafts. Place a candle or tissue next to the window. If your see the flame on the candle flicker, or if the tissue flutters, then that means there is a draft coming from the window. The window should be insulated to keep heat in.
Here are a few insulation tips to consider when preparing your home for the chill of winter.
Repair any cracked glass or damaged trim around the window. Most of the time drafts are caused by loose trim or the panels of the window. Replacing these or using caulk to seal the leaks will save a lot of heat. Like caulk, putty can be used to fill in cracks and air leaks in the wood paneling and trim work around the window.
Single pane windows are a big source of heat loss in older homes. To keep from replacing the glass you can buy window insulating plastic. This is a sheet of place that is cut to fit over the window. It is hung around the edges of the trim tightly, and left up all winter.
Another great insulation tip is to hang heavy curtains or drapes during the winter months. When coupled with storm windows and other insulation methods the drapes will help the home retain heat.
Saving money on utility bills is a big concern for many people, and by following a few insulation tips you can save a few bucks each month. You will also be a little warmer this winter. For more information on proper insulation of your home contact Air Assurance, providing quality service to the Tulsa metropolitan area for over 25 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock