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Green Tip and Trade

Caulk or seal up window cracks and air leaks

Christina Huh Nov 25, 2010

Fact: The amount of heat escaping through cracks in the average house is equivalent to having an open window year-round. No matter how well your house is insulated, if there are cracks and gaps, the air you just paid to heat or cool will quickly be lost. But air sealing is easy and relatively cheap and can cut down on chilly drafts, reduce your heating bills, and slash your overall home energy use — which is better for you and for the planet.

Get some eco-friendly caulk and seal the air leaks around doors and windows. If your home has a fireplace, make sure that you keep the damper closed when the fireplace isn’t in use. Insulate outlets and switches. You can also make a few draft dodgers. 

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