How to plug heat loss in your home
Homes leak heat
If your heating bill cost you’re a small fortune this winter yet you still had to pull on an extra layer of clothing to keep warm, chances are you’re living in a home that leaks heat.
Why is this a problem?
Many NZ homes are cold and uncomfortable because heat leaks out through every gap and uninsulated area – like water through a sieve. Plugging up the gaps and getting well-installed insulation into your home will make it easier to heat, and warmer, drier and healthier to live in.
Additional Related Article to Read : Magic Blinds – Raise and Lower Them With Care
According to the World Health Organisation, homes should have a minimum indoor temperature of 18˚C for people to stay healthy. In New Zealand our average daily temperature inside in winter is just 16˚C.
Things You Can Do About Heat Loss
Plugging gaps around doors
Plug up gaps so heat can’t escape and drafts can’t get in. Common places where drafts occur are around doors, windows, skylights, fireplaces and plumbing.
Use draft stoppers around doors and windows and block off your open fireplace if you are not using it.
Ceiling insulation
Get insulation put in your ceiling and under your floors. Ceiling insulation should be the first step towards stopping heat loss.
If you already have insulation, check it is properly installed – there shouldn’t be any gaps, folds or creases. A good quality carpet underlay can do wonders for keeping out cold drafts and saving money on your heating bill.
No gaps larger than 2mm between insulation and joist.
Insulation depth should be at least 120mm thick.
NOTE: Gaps are needed around most down-lights for safety reasons.
Curtains
A lot of heat can be lost through windows. Blinds aren’t great at preventing heat loss, unless they are specifically – designed thermal ones.
The best form of insulation is curtains made from thick, thermally-backed material that is preferably double-layered. The curtains should be tight against window frames and either be floor-to-ceiling length or have a pelmet.
Hot tip: Draw curtains before dark and retain the heat from the day.
source : Keep the Heat in: How to Reduce Heat Loss in Your Home