WEATHERIZATION

Air Sealing

By use of the blower door or historical data, the home can have its thermal envelope sealed (the area in which one lives). This is done on all walls, ceilings and floors of a conditioned space. A home that is properly air sealed will make the insulation more effective. Most notable areas include attic chases (thermal bypasses such as chimney and soil stacks), entry doors and basement band joist penetrations. Materials used include caulks (regular and high temp), expandable foam, insul-shield, R-rated foam board and fiberglass.

Duct Testing & Sealing

Leaky cold air returns force furnaces to draw air from areas not intended. Sealing cold air returns allows furnaces to operate up to 25% more efficiently. A mastic material is applied to all seams. In the event a furnace supply line (heat and air conditioning) has a long run, sealing the line will allow the force of the blow to reach its intended destination.

Air Venting

Proper venting of appliances and fans will not only make the home more energy efficient, but will also increase safety. Dryer vents should be vented to the outside using the smallest run and straight metal piping. This will allow the dryer to operate more efficiently and will reduce the amount of fires that begin in coil piping due to heat and lint. Bathroom fans should vent to the outside, which will allow moisture to exit the home and reduce the likelihood of mold.

Hot Water Tank Wrapping

On tanks that permit, wrapping the tank with insulation will keep the water hotter longer, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat it. We also recommend insulating both the hot and cold water lines that come out of the tank, beginning 12” from tank running out 6’.