Learn how to locate common sources of home air leaks and seal them. You'll save money and improve the comfort of your home.
 

Windows

Windows are the largest source of energy loss in a typical home. Caulking is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable and efficient. Inspect the outside of your windows for old or cracked caulking. Carefully remove and replace with caulk that is suitable for outdoor use, such as silicone.

Doors

Check around the frame of all exterior doors for weatherstripping. If it appears torn or frayed, replace it with new weatherstripping. Also, check underneath the door. If there's a gap, that means air is escaping. Install a door sweep to seal that gap. You can find weatherstripping and door sweeps at your local home improvement retailer.

Attic

Make sure you have the right level of insulation in your attic, which is measured in R-value. Check your insulation R-value against recommended levels for your climate zone. If you fall short, contact a qualified professional about adding insulation to your attic. It's one of the most effective ways to improve home comfort and efficiency.

Your attic should also be tightly sealed. Locate all ceiling fans, recessed lighting fixtures and electrical outlets in the ceiling below your attic — each is a potential source of air leakage. Pull back the insulation to find the cutouts and seal them with caulk or expandable foam. Only lay insulation on insulation contact (IC)-rated fixtures. An approved light cover (inverted bucket) is safe for all fixtures. Check for and seal gaps around vents, flues and ductwork. Also, seal the attic access with weatherstripping.

Basement

Air can leak out of gaps and cracks in the rim joists, where the wall meets the ceiling, as well as plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls. Caulk is best for sealing gaps or cracks that are one-quarter inch or smaller. Use spray foam insulation to fill gaps up to three inches. Fill larger gaps by cutting and stuffing pieces of insulation.

Fireplace

Fireplaces can lose a significant amount of energy through the chimney. Keep the flue damper tightly closed when the fireplace isn't in use. Low-cost accessories, such as flue sealers, glass doors and inserts, can reduce heat loss and make your fireplace more efficient when in use.

To ensure your home is as efficient as possible, get a home energy audit. Your auditor will inspect your home to locate areas where it may be wasting energy.