In our minds, when it comes to the home, nothing beats a good Do-It-Yourself project. When a house has specific energy-related issues, homeowners and potential buyers can begin the diagnostic process. We recognize that this isn’t necessarily a replacement for professional evaluations, but the DIY approach can help to uncover issues for quick fixes or further investigation.
Take the time to inspect the items on our list below and make note of any stand out problems. Then use this list and notes to serve as a to-do list for fixing up any problem areas, as well as prioritizing repairs and upgrades as necessary. And if any problems in particular stand out and you're looking for a repair or service, we can recommend our favourite people in the industry - just drop us a line at info@weselltoronto.com and we'll be happy to send you the contact information of some of the best in the business!
- Gaps along the baseboards, flooring edges, seams between walls and ceilings, and anywhere else that two different building materials meet; potential sources of energy loss
- Insulation around switch plates and electrical outlets. First, turn off power to a switch or electrical outlet, then use a power tester to ensure that no current is flowing to the switch/outlet. Finally, remove the cover plate and probe around the opened outlet with a stick or screwdriver; any resistance suggests the presence of insulation
- Windows and doors; rattling indicates an air leak source
- Fireplace flue; if you can feel a draft of air, either the fireplace flue may be open or there might be gaps in the closed position
- Cellar door and attic hatch; the same amount and same type of insulation should be in the hatch as in the attic floor
- Attic vents; ensure vents are not blocked by insulation
- Hot or cold areas on floors or in rooms; indicative of possible insulation issues
- Drafts through mail slots and pet doors; seal these openings to reduce energy loss
- Exhaust fans and hoods, along with dryer-vents; ensure there is an appropriate airflow in moisture-heavy spaces
- Foundation seals, siding, mortar between bricks (especially around building corners); these are all areas requiring periodic maintenance and are prime sources of air leaks
- Worn or improperly installed caulking and weather stripping; remove and replace
- Storm window installation; creates an extra layer of insulation
- Wrapping on water heater, hot water pipes, and furnace ducts; provides an extra layer of insulation
- Replacement of furnace air filters; improves indoor air quality and extends the life of your furnace
- Ducts and seams; dirt streaks indicate leakages to be sealed
- Replacing incandescent bulbs with CFL or LED bulbs; improves energy efficiency
Post a comment