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Draft proofing your home is a cost-efficient way to reduce your energy bills. In fact, research shows that you can lower your energy bills by as much as 25% by simply sealing gaps in your windows, doors, and other areas where exterior air can enter and interior air can escape.

A draft is costly because of the constant airflow it creates. When you set the thermostat in your home to a desired temperature, your heating system or air conditioning works to achieve it and maintain it. But with drafts, your heating and cooling systems are working against the air seeping in from outside. When cold air from outside flows in when your heat is on, or when hot outside air seeps in when your air conditioning is operating, both systems must stay on longer to reach the desired temperature. The longer they work, the more you pay in your energy bill.

You should seriously consider draft proofing, as it has many benefits. Nobody likes chills and other discomforts in a drafty home and you can be sure that if your appliances are working overtime to maintain your internal temperature, that they will need more maintenance in the long-term. Just a few minutes of your time spent draft proofing can lead to all around savings.

Draft proofing is defined as the process of identifying and sealing cracks and gaps. For example, by using weatherstripping or by caulking. However, it is far easier and less expensive to put draft blockers around the windows and under all the doors. If you rent your house, condominium or apartment, these draft stoppers are ideal for lowering your energy bills without a permanent installation.

There are several easy methods to search for drafty areas in your home or apartment. Strike a match or a lighter by a door or window, or just run your hand around the window or along the bottom of the door. If you see your drapes or curtains moving slightly when the windows are shut, you know you have a draft problem.

As you draft proof your home, you will be able to determine the areas that are leading to costly energy bills. In older houses, windows and doors may have settled, but the insulation could also be faulty, which is especially likely if its old and a much lower quality than today’s products. Draft stoppers are ideal for out-of-the-way places, like basement doors and attics. These items are made of flexible material and fit into any opening.

There are a number of places where air could enter or escape, in addition to the usual suspects — the windows and doors. When you are draft proofing, pay attention to pet doors, clothes dryer vents, mail slots and openings where telephone and cable wires run through.

Draft proofing in new homes is also important because window and door caulking might loosen from the weather. This is typical with garage doors and sliding glass doors leading outdoors. Air infiltration can also occur around plug outlets and electric switches.