Everyone loves summer, but here in Massachusetts, the seasonal heat can be uncomfortable for many. We always take steps to ensure our homes are ready for the harsh winter weather, but it’s equally important to seal and insulate the home envelope for summer, and this is especially true for older, multi-level homes.
Your home’s exterior — windows, outer walls, ceilings, and floors — is called the envelope. When you take steps to properly seal and insulate the home envelope, your home’s cooling and heating will run more efficiently.
Energy Star studies show that heating and cooling account for about half of the energy use in your home. Insulation provides maximum protection when your home’s air leaks are properly sealed. It’s easy to spot leaks around windows and doors, but also look for hidden air leaks. Some of sites in your home that have the potential for air leakage that can raise your heating and cooling bills include around:
- Dryer, stove, fan vents
- Outdoor faucets
- Ductwork leaks
- Recessed lighting
- Attic hatch and crawl space entrance
A caulk gun is the only ammunition you need to attack those air leaks, but it's important to then have a trained HVAC professional check to ensure you still have proper ventilation. Your energy savings and cooling costs may be reduced significantly when you and a diagnostic HVAC professional effectively identify and seal leaks and check insulation.
For more information about how to seal and insulate the home envelope, contact Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We proudly serve homeowners in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts.
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