One of the problems in a home is that air is constantly moving. In a past issue, Home Energy magazine looked at energy-efficient remodeling and the problem of drafts.
The magazine noted that a home’s furnace, air-conditioner and ventilation unit move air around by creating pressure differences. These differences can be controlled and regulated. But pressure differences also occur just from hot air rising, which creates low pressures under the air and high pressures above it.
This results in air being pushed around in different directions. Then there is the general problem of holes and cracks in the walls and other parts of the home, drawing in air from outdoors and letting indoor air out.
Sometimes the furnace or the water heater will draw air from the heated part of the home, making rooms uncomfortable no matter what else you do.
Add the problem of air leaking from ductwork and any kind of combustion device you might have, and you can see why these problems occur.
For these reasons, when checking out problems with drafts, have someone look at your house as a system rather than try to find one specific cause for the problem.
Meanwhile, here are some general ideas that ought to help lower heating bills:
– Turn the thermostat down, especially at night. Settings of 65 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night can be energy-efficient.
– Make sure the windows near your thermostat are kept tightly closed. Otherwise, cold air can keep the heating unit working longer than it needs to.
– Clean the filter in your heating system every month.
– Check the attic access door to be sure it closes tightly. If it needs to be weatherstripped and insulated, do it.
– Open drapes and shades during the day, and close them at night.
