13 - Friday, February 27, 1987 - North Shore News INEFFICIENT HOME HEATING SYSTEMS Are you losing energy doll | | | c t EVERY YEAR thousands of Canadian homes lose energy a region’s climate, but the general dollars through air leakage, poor insulation and inefficient heating systems. That’s why most homes shouid have a thorough energy checkup. Here are some hints on how to investigate these major energy components and improve the energy efficiency of your house. AIR LEAKAGE Air leakage contre! is one of the most cost-effective energy conser- vation measures available; home- owners often recover their costs quickly through lower energy bills. So begin your energy checkups by searching for air leaks. The older and windier the day, the better. Cold air drafts may be coming in at major problem areas, such as around doors and win- dows, and less severe leaks can be easily located by pulling a tissue or smoke pencil along walls and ceil- ings and noting where the tissue or smoke flutters. other, such as the moving parts of windows and doors. ° Air-vapor barriers prevent air and vapor from passing from the living space into the building struc- ture.and insulation. They are usually installed on the warm side of the insulation and should be completely sealed. One material commonly used for air- vapor barriers is 0.15 mm polyethylene sheets. INSULATION Next, give some thought to in- sulation, Take note of what areas’ in your house are insulated, what kind of insulation is installed and to what depth. If the insulation work was done by a contractor most of this in- fermation should be written down, either in the contract or in the con- tractor’s records. Failing this, you'll have to do some scouting to ‘Air leakage control is one of the most cost-effective energy conservation measures available; homeowners often recover their costs quickly through lower energy bills.” One or more of three different methods may be required to seal the leaks. : , ° Caulking should be used to seal fixed joints — those that are not * intended to move in relation to each other. © Weatherstripping is used for joints that move in relation to each get the facts. You should ensure that all in- sulation is in good shape (not wet or compacted) and that an effec- tive air-vapor barrier is in place. You should also determine if your insulation is up to current stan- dards. Specific recommended thermal resistance values vary according to ranges are as follows: RSI R walls — 2.810 4.55 16 to 26 basement walls — 2.2 13 roofs and ceilings — 4.4 107.1 floors (over unheated spaces) — 4.7 28 25 to 40 In certain components of the house (for example, a partly filled wall cavity) attaining these recommended levels may be too expensive. Remember that there is a diminishing return for each addi- tional unit of thermal resistance added, so it makes sense to con- centrate’ initial efforts where little insulation exists. Also, insulation works best if the area is airtight; caulk, weatherstrip and add an air-vapor barrier before installing insulation. HEATING SYSTEM Now turn your attention to’ the heating system. Is the system in good shape? Has it recently ‘receiv- _ed major servicing or upgrading? Does it deliver héat to al! parts of the house evenly? : If you answered no to these questions — or if you aren’t sure what the answers are — it may be worthwhile to call in a heating contractor. This person can serve several functions, “from cleaning the heating system and giving it a tune-up to recommending upgrading or rep..cement. In any case, have the heating system serviced unnually to ensure that it runs as safely and efficiently as possible. « . Basic do-it-yourself maintenance See Turn oP IEE ETE REE TY oF ere eR RRNA ANI STZ TES seegmetige | pate Perennials Great , Selection Arabis Aubrietta Carnations Candytuff ALL FABRICS & LABOUR & : a and on our custom made Reo S473 peg. $1.49 DRAPERIES, UPHOLSTERY, = 3 SLIP COVERS, BEDSPREADS -*Many-More Opening Specials on Now!” Spring arden Special —~...Flyer Delivered : Next Week FREE IN. HOME: CONSULTATION 2. Bor'All Vou ~ at The Bay, Park Royal = Need To Grow | _ 925-1417. gp nc aney