Weatherization
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First, have your home tested for air tightness. To find a contractor visit the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR page on the Focus on Energy website. |
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Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows that leak air. |
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Caulk and seal air leaks where plumbing, ducting, or electrical wiring penetrates through exterior walls, floors, ceilings, and soffits over cabinets. |
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Install rubber gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on exterior walls. |
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Look for dirty spots in your insulation. This often indicates holes where air leaks into and out of your house. You can seal these holes by stapling sheets of plastic over the holes and caulking the edges of the plastic. |
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Install storm windows over single-pane windows or replace them with double-pane windows. A less costly alternative during winter months is to tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames. |
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When the fireplace is not in use, keep the flue damper tightly closed. |
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For new construction, reduce exterior wall leaks by either installing house wrap, taping the joints of exterior sheathing, or comprehensively caulking and sealing the exterior walls. Visit the Wisconsin ENERGY STAR Homes page on the Focus on Energy website to find a builder that specializes in building durable, comfortable, energy efficient homes. |
