Even in climate-perfect Oakland, we get hit with winter’s chilly temps. There are a couple things you can do to winterize your home and save energy costs, starting with an old-fashioned treasure hunt for leaky places.
Yes, we suggest that you take a good look at every window and door. Then go ahead and investigate openings like mail chutes, electrical/gas service entrances, cable TV and phone lines, outdoor water faucets, dryer and other vents, and air conditioners.
How do you detect leaks? According to the U.S. Energy Department, leakages may be identified through these test approaches:
- Light test – “Shine flashlight at night over all potential gaps while a partner observes the house from outside. Large cracks will show up as rays of light.”
- Paper test – “Shut a door or window on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out without tearing it, you’re losing energy.”
- Smoke test – “Light an incense stick and pass it around the edges of common leak sites. Wherever the smoke is sucked out of or blown into the room, there’s a draft.”
We understand this smoke test provides the most complete leak detection. In our opinion, the incense smoke works best when you start chanting too. Only kidding! Remember that anywhere smoke’s getting sucked out is a leak, and keep track.