School is back in session, and we have a quiz for you!

The cold months of winter are just around the corner. Will your home pass the energy test to keep you warm and cozy and your wallet fat?

Or will missing the grade leave you and your money out in the cold?

Let’s find out!

Question # 1
Does your home have major air leaks?
If you answer honestly, you probably don’t know. And that’s ok. Here are 3 ways to find out:

1. The old fashioned hand test. Walk the perimeter of your home and feel around the doors, windows, and outlets for obvious temperature differences or gusts of air. Feel something? You guessed it, you’ve got a leak.
2. The candle test. For less obvious leaks, light a candle and hold it near suspected leak areas such as outlets, light fixtures, crown molding, etc. If the candle flickers, you have a draft. (Be sure to turn off your central heating and air first)
3. Use an air leak detector. Turn the device on and point it at the areas where you suspect leaks. A small light coming from the device will scan the area you are pointing at. If there is a leak, the light will turn blue if the leaking air is cold, it will turn red if the leaking air is warm. If there are no leaks the light will not change.

Question # 2
Do you know what the top 3 common home devices are that drain energy?

1. Plasma TV. They can drain about 1,400 kilowatt hours annually, even when off, just from being plugged in.
2. Video Games. PlayStation, Xbox, and Wii can waste around $25 per year, all while turned off.
3. Laptop Computers. As long as it’s plugged in to the wall, it’s zapping energy.

Question # 3
Do you know what mostly unseen element of your home can be a big energy waste?
Answer: Your uninsulated HVAC Ducts

For maximum efficiency, all HVAC Ducts should be sealed & insulated. This is especially true for ducts in unconditioned spaces, like like attics, basements and crawlspaces. If left unsealed and uninsulated, your conditioned air leaks out continually, meaning lots of unnecessary energy spending every year.

Did your home pass the test? Give us a call at 1-800-516-0949 and we’ll help you get your home buttoned up for the season.