Adding extra insulation to these spots helps avoid the influx of cold air and reduces demands on the furnace
The majority of homes don’t have sufficient insulation to maximize efficiency. When contractors build new homes, they typically install the minimum amount of insulation required by code. Unfortunately, even the amount required by code is not enough to keep the home comfortable and save money on energy bills. Nearly fifty percent of the monthly utility bill is spent on heating and cooling costs. That cost rises when a home is poorly insulated. When there’s not enough insulation, heated and cooled air escapes through the walls and attic. A common indication is uneven temperatures throughout the home. When the various rooms have different temperatures, there’s probably a concern with insulation levels. Take a look at the monthly energy bills over the last few years. Insulation gradually settles and can become compromised by moisture and mice, becoming less effective. Maybe the kitchen is suddenly feeling a bit chilly in the winter or the bedrooms are overheated in the summer. If the rooms are properly ventilated, the problem is most likely poor insulation. Heated and cooled air will escape from anywhere that doesn’t have a tightly sealed barrier. The heating and cooling system then works longer and harder to make up for the energy waste, which shows up on the utility bills. In the winter, drafts in the home are the result of cool air entering around window frames and doorways. Adding extra insulation to these spots helps avoid the influx of cold air and reduces demands on the furnace. Installing insulation can be a DIY project, but it’s often cost-effective to hire a professional. Many HVAC contractors offer blown-in insulation services which resolve issues with existing homes without a large mess or remodeling project.