1. Add Weatherstripping
Replace worn-out weatherstripping. Pay close attention to seals on doors that get a lot of use, such as those on the front of the house or between the house and attached garage.
2. Improve Windows
If you're not ready to spring for new windows, fix up the ones you have by replacing latches that don't grip tightly, adding weatherstripping or making repairs to storm windows that are stuck open. You can even build simple wood-and-glass interior or exterior storm windows. Installing a storm window on the inside or outside of an old-fashioned single-glazed window doubles its R value (to 2 or slightly better, about equivalent to an entry-level insulated glass window).
3. Tune Up Boilers and Furnaces
Oil-fired boilers and furnaces need a yearly cleaning and tuneup. Gas-fired furnaces and boilers can go longer without it, but if you haven't had a gas appliance tuned up in two or more years, schedule this as soon as possible.
4. Deal with Air Conditioners
There is no effective way to insulate a window air conditioner. Remove it. Install an insulated cover on through-the-wall air conditioners. Consider replacing these appliances and stepping up to central air if your budget allows it.
5. Patrol for Heat Leaks
Take some time on a bright Saturday morning and have a look around the house, especially in dark crawlspaces, attics and any rooms above a garage. Use spray foam to seal gaps where you see daylight entering. Likewise seal around gaps where pipes and wires enter the attic from the floor below.
6. Insulate Drop-Down Stairs
Buy a polystyrene hood to fit over the opening for the drop-down stairs that lead to the attic. You can also build one yourself using polystyrene panels and construction adhesive.
7. Cover Fireplaces
A fireplace is nothing more than a direct hole to the outside. If the fireplace is unused, close the damper and install a removable panel built of drywall glued to a piece of polystyrene insulation. Install air-tight glass doors in a metal frame over working fireplaces.
1. 增加挡风雨条
更换破旧的挡风雨条。密切注意经常使用的门的密封,例如房屋的前门或者房屋和连接的车库之间的门。
2. 改进窗户
如果你还没有准备立新的窗户,就可以通过更换那些不能扣紧的锁栓、增加挡风雨条、或者修理那些被卡住而关不严的防风窗,来修复现有的窗户。你甚至可以做出简单的木材和玻璃的内防风窗或者外防风窗。将它们安到镶单层玻璃的老式窗户的内面或者外面,来增加窗户的 R 值(可以达到 2 或者略好一些,大约相当于门户级的中空玻璃窗户)。
3. 调整锅炉和炉子
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