Air Quality

• Before weatherizing your home, it's important to evaluate the quality of your indoor air. Check the appliances that burn fuel for any leaks. Test radon and install a carbon monoxide detector. Look for areas that have mold or mildew and fix leaks. Clean up mildew, dust or other contaminants. When using any toxic products, be sure to ventilate the house well. When weather permits, allow fresh air into the home by opening windows or doors.
  
  

Identifying Air Leaks

• One good way to detect air leaks in a home is to turn off the furnace and shut all windows and doors. Turn on exhaust fans and vents to the outside and then light incense. Watch carefully for where the smoke goes, holding the incense near known culprits, such as outlets, window and door frames, and near fireplaces or dryer vents.
  
  

Caulking and Weather Stripping

• Use calk for areas that are stationary, such as outlets and vents. For doors and windows, you need to use weather stripping, since these areas will need to open and close. Apply caulk to a clean, dry surface after removing old caulking with a putty knife. Be sure to use sufficient amounts of caulk and apply in a continuous line without stops to avoid air bubbles or an incomplete seal. Weatherstripping around doors and windows should be applied in weather above 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Measure the stripping carefully before cutting and make sure you use the correct product for the area to be weatherstripped. Only apply to areas that are clean and dry.
  
  

Other Tips

• Keep the damper closed in your fireplace. Use storm windows or replace windows with energy efficient models if possible. An alternative is to apply plastic film to the windows. Follow the product directions closely to ensure a tight seal. Put rubber gaskets behind outlets and switch plates, especially on exterior walls where cold air is likely to make its way inside.