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If you live in a state where you can experience arctic-like temperatures, there’s a chance that you’ll be using your heater when the weather begins to turn into a winter wonderland. And if you feel as if no matter how much you utilize your HVAC unit or adjust your thermostat, that your home still feels like ice, then it’s possible that you could be experiencing heat loss — but how so?
Here are a few of the many ways heat could be escaping from your home.
Reasons a Home Loses Heat
No Insulation
Let’s start with the obvious: If your house doesn’t have insulation, or lacks it in certain rooms, then you’ll be losing more heat than you think. Believe it or not, insulation — whether it be spray foam or that pink, cloud-like material — is extremely valuable in a home. Think of it as a flannel shirt for your house, helping keep it warm in the wintertime.
Another thing to consider about insulation is that it will help you heat your home on a more energy-efficient level — since it will help trap all that warmth inside. As a result, you’ll adjust your thermostat less, since your living space will be as comfortable as can be with minimal HVAC effort. When having insulation installed, it’s important to scout out a professional company to get the job done. An expert will ensure that your insulation is installed in such a way that your home is always evenly heated (or cooled in the summer).
Ailing Attic
While on the topic of lacking insulation, if there’s no “warmth barrier” in your attic, then losing heat will happen at an even faster rate — since hot air rises. Another thing to consider about your space upstairs? As it turns out, attics are prone to having all sorts of holes and cracks, which equals turmoil when you’re trying to keep your home warm. Especially if your roof has seen better days, that can help make matters even worse.
If you’re looking to keep heat in your home (and cool air in the summertime), having all “wounds” in your attic repaired can make a world of difference. Then, once those are repaired, having a professional install insulation can help add another layer of “temperature protection” to really keep your home as comfortable as can be.
Drafty Doors and Windows
Off of the top of your head, do you have any windows or doors that emit a draft during cooler temperatures? If so, those insulation-less features will not help with your heating situation in the slightest. Ideally, think of drafty doors and windows in the same regard as leaving them open on a chilly, windy day — even though they’re closed.
However, just like insulating your home, it’s important to find ways that you can insulate your windows and doors to help keep heat indoors. For starters, you can have them replaced, completely — but that’s not too budget-friendly. If you’re looking for a cheap, helpful solution, then applying weather stripping can help!
This inexpensive, usually self-adhesive stripping can be purchased at your local home improvement store and can be applied within seconds (just follow the instructions for the best results)! Once the source of the draft is eliminated, not only will your home heat more efficiently, but there will be little-to-no room for traces of cold air blowing through — which is a big win for any homeowner!
If You’ve Tired These Solutions, but You’re Still Losing Heat, Call Us Today!
To schedule your appointment with Quality Plumbing & Mechanical, LLC, call us today at (865) 622-7785 and receive the ultimate in-home comfort with Southern charm!