Making your home more energy efficient will lower your fuel bills and make you more comfortable indoors during the winter (and summer). To do this you may have to take action on several fronts: adding insulation to walls, weather-stripping windows and doors, and filling up gaps in the walls and ceilings, just to name a few. Many times, however, there are less conspicuous spots where smaller amounts of heated air can escape. Listed below are eight of these areas that could benefit by adding insulation. Once sealed, the cumulative effect can be dramatic. When working with fiberglass insulation, wear gloves and a dust mask. If you use the foam insulating sealant, wear gloves and safety goggles.
1.
Seal Sills
In new construction, the space between the top of the foundation and the sill can be sealed using narrow strips of foam insulation. When the sill is put in place, the foam will be sandwiched between the sill and foundation, blocking air filtration. (Fig. 1)
2.
Wrap Ducts
Ducts can be wrapped in paper-backed fiberglass insulation or foil-backed bubble wrap; use duct tape to hold the insulation in place (Fig. 2). Where ducts enter and exit through walls, ceilings, and roofs, seal the edges with foam insulation.
3.
Wrap Pipes
To insulate pipes, buy preformed pipe sleeves that fit over the pipe (Fig. 3), or wrap the pipe using pipe wrap insulation (narrow rolls of blanket insulation) and secure it with duct tape. Both will also prevent pipe sweating in the summer.
4.
Encase Water Heater
A water heater can be wrapped in a fiberglass thermal blanket to cut down heat loss. Water-heater blankets are sold in kits that include tape and a thermal blanket encased in a plastic sleeve. (Fig. 4)
5.
Seal Holes
Foam insulating sealant expands like shaving cream out of its can and can be messy to work with if it's not contained in a hole or crevice. But foam is a good choice for where pipes go into walls (Fig. 5). Read and follow package instructions carefully, and do not apply too much because it can continue to expand for a while. Wear gloves and safety goggles when using this type of foam.
6.
Close Gaps
Windows are often a major source of thermal loss. If you can feel a draft, remove the casing and stuff pieces of fiberglass insulation in any cracks between the window jambs and the framing. (Fig. 6)
7.
Insulate Ventilation Ducts
Wrap attic ventilation ducts with thin batts of fiberglass insulation (Fig. 7). This insulation prevents condensation from forming and leaking down through the ceiling where hot vented vapor meets cold attic air.
8.
Seal Utility Boxes
An electrical outlet insulator inserted between a switch or a receptacle and its cover will stop airflow (Fig. 8). You can also inject silicone caulk around all wires inside the box and around the drywall or plaster.
