Calling all junior detectives! Use your sleuthing skills to spot sneaky leaks.
Is it a GHOST or a drafty window? Did a BLACK CAT just cross your path, or is there a breeze sneaking in under a door? Is your bedroom HAUNTED, because it’s always chilly — even when the heat’s on? If any of this sounds familiar, there may be energy mysteries in your home — and YOU can help solve them.
Here’s what you’ll need in your energy sleuth’s detective kit:
- Post-it notes (Write: “BOO! An energy ghost lives here!” on at least 12 of them)
- Craft feathers (the feathery the better!)
- Flashlight
- Thermometer (optional, for comparing room temps)
Ready for your first mission? Grab your energy sleuth’s detective kit and your grown-up because we’re going on a home energy ghost hunt.
Mystery #1: The ghost in the window.
Windows let you keep a friendly eye on the world outside, but sometimes they let in more than you’re bargaining for.
DETECTION: On a windy day — the windier the better! — grab the lightest feather from your kit. Very slowly move the feather around the edges of every window in your house. It’ll help you detect unwanted airflow around window frames, doors, baseboards, electrical outlets, crawlspaces, registers, and attic doors.
When your feather is “tickled” you’ve found a draft ghost! Sound the alarm (we recommend a ghoulish howl) and mark it with a BOO note.
Fresh out of feathers? Run your hand under cold water and you’ll be able to feel the ghostly drafts for yourself!
SOLUTION: For a low-cost fix, your grown-up partner can use clear weatherstripping or a window insulation kit to seal the gaps and keep warm air inside. For more hot tips on air sealing and insulation, be sure to check out this article!
Mystery #2: The case of the chilly door.
DETECTION: Make a list of all the doors in your home — front door, back door, sliding door, side door. Do any of them feel colder near the bottom? Can you see light coming in around the edges? Take a piece of paper and close it in the door. Then, try pulling it out. If it slides out easily, air is probably slipping through there, too!
SOLUTION: Add a door sweep or a rolled-up towel to block the draft. Feeling crafty? You can make and decorate your own “draft snake.”
Mystery #3: The clue of the cold floor.
DETECTION: On a chilly day, take your socks off — if you dare! — and walk around your home. Pay extra close attention to areas where your toes feel chilly. If you feel a cold spot, mark it with a BOO note.
SOLUTION: Ask your grown-up if you can help them pick out a few area rugs. You can even grab your flashlight and head down to your basement or crawlspace to look for leaks. Insulation and air sealing can help stop chilly floors.
Mystery #4: The secret of the whistling outlets.
Did you know cold air can sneak in through electrical outlets? Especially on outside-facing walls!
DETECTION: On a windy day, place the palm of your hand gently over light switches or outlets near exterior walls. Feel a tickle of air? That’s a hidden leak! Mark it with a BOO note.
SOLUTION: Encourage your grown-ups to take you on a field trip to your local hardware store to buy outlet gaskets. These inexpensive insulating foam pads go behind outlet covers — they’re easy to install and super helpful.
7 energy efficiency tips for renters.
Here are 7 ways to stay warm and save money on utility bills (while keeping your landlord happy).
Energy efficiency for renters — and staying warm and comfortable in colder months can be tricky. As a renter, you may not be able to control your home’s insulation, heating, or windows. However, you can save money on energy bills!
Here are 7 proven energy-saving tips that are good for renters and landlords. These budget-friendly ideas will help make your rental home feel cozy and energy efficient.
1. Start with a draft check
Before you make any changes, take a few minutes to stroll through your home and feel for drafts. Here are a few common problem areas you’ll want to investigate:
- Attics and crawlspaces (and their hatches).
- Window frames, panes and sashes.
- Door jambs, sills and windows.
- Plumbing and electrical penetrations.
- Dishwasher and refrigerator connections.
- Baseboards and where walls meet the ceiling.
- Electrical outlets and vent registers.
- Recessed lights, vents and fans.
You can either use the “damp hand” or “incense trick” to test for drafts. For the first option, run your hand under cold water and then hover it slowly around the problem areas mentioned above. Or, you can light a stick of your favorite incense and hold it near the problem areas mentioned above. If the smoke wavers or pulls, you’ll have found a leak.
2. “Seal and peel” or make your own “draft snake.”
Doors and windows are two of the biggest air leak offenders. Fortunately, they’re also pretty easy to tame.
If your landlord doesn’t want to install new windows or permanent weather stripping, you can use a removable “seal and peel” caulk. This caulk makes a temporary, airtight seal around leaky windows and doors. You can easily apply it and remove it without damaging paint or door surfaces.
And whether you’re feeling quick or crafty, you can create your own draft stopper — or “draft snake” for window sills, baseboards and doors. A rolled-up towel works great if you’re in the quick camp. If you’re the crafty type, spend a few moments searching for inspiration.
3. Seal your panes with shrink window film.
Single-pane windows are common in older rental homes and apartments. They can let a lot of warm air escape and cold air come in.
That’s where seal and shrink window film comes in. Most kits include double-sided, removable tape. To complete the job, you only need scissors and a hair dryer. These kits use clear plastic film that you tape around the window frame, cut to size and shrink tight with a hair dryer.
The film improves energy efficiency by reducing drafts. Plus the kits are easy on paint and even easier to remove in spring when you feel like flinging your windows open.
If you’re not up for installing film, thermal curtains or layered drapes can also help reduce heat loss — especially at night. Just be sure to open them during the day to let sunlight warm your space naturally.
4. Plug up outlet and switch leaks
You might be surprised, but cold air can come in through gaps around electrical outlets and light switches. This is especially true for outlets on outside walls.
You can block this airflow with foam outlet insulation gaskets or socket sealers. They’re super easy to install and cost just a few dollars per pack. Simply unscrew the outlet cover, place the gasket behind it, and screw the cover back on.
Looking for FREE outlet insulators? They’re included in your free energy-saving kit when you complete a free DIY Home Energy Assessment.
5. Put a blanket on … your floor.
If your home has hardwood flooring, a quick way to insulate (and keep your tootsies warm) is by placing area rugs in high-traffic or frequently used areas like your living room or bedroom. Think of them as a cozy blanket for your floors.
Not only do area rugs help your feet stay warm, but they can also help reduce heat loss through the floor — especially if your rental is above an unheated crawlspace or basement.
6. Take it down a degree or two.
If your home has a smart or programmable thermostat, be sure to take advantage of it. If they don’t, talk to them about installing a smart thermostat, which can help reduce energy costs even more. Some local power companies may even offer incentives on purchasing a new smart thermostat.
You can layer up and set your thermostat to 68° F. You can even set it lower when you are away or cozy under quilts in the evening. If that feels too cool, try to set your thermostat just a degree or two cooler than you might consider your ideal temperature.
If your space has room-specific heaters, close doors and heat only the rooms you use most often.
7. Take a FREE DIY home energy assessment.
Discover all the ways your rented home is using (or losing) energy with our free DIY Home Energy Assessment. Plus, you’ll receive an energy-saving kit and a $10 home improvement store gift card in the mail within four to six weeks.
Looking for more great ways to save on energy costs? Be sure to check out this article for more no-cost tips.
Air sealing and insulation tips to get your house knitted up for sweater weather.
As the golden days of summer give way to crisp September mornings, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for cool weather days. One of the most effective, affordable — and often overlooked — ways to stay cozy and reduce your energy bills is DIY weatherization, insulation and air sealing.
If you’ve ever felt a chilly draft sneak under your door or watched your heating bills climb as the temperatures plummet, your home might be telling you it’s time to seal the gaps. The good news? Not only are air sealing and insulation rebates available from TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company but there’s plenty of time to take action now — before winter really hits.
What Is Air Sealing?
Air sealing is the process of closing up the small cracks, gaps, and holes in your home’s building envelope — the physical barrier between the indoors and outdoors. Even if you made the air sealing rounds last fall, we recommend making this an annual event. Homes — especially older ones — may settle and shift as seasons change.
What are common “problem areas” for air leaks?
As you consider air sealing your home, pay close attention to:
- Attics and crawlspaces (and their hatches).
- Window frames, panes and sashes.
- Door jambs, sills and windows.
- Plumbing and electrical penetrations.
- Dishwasher and refrigerator connections.
- Baseboards and where walls meet the ceiling.
- Electrical outlets and vent registers.
- Recessed lights, vents and fans.
Individually, these air leaks may seem minor but together, they can add up. And in the winter, they allow your precious warm air to escape while inviting cold air to seep in. Effective insulation and air sealing can help stop energy loss in its tracks.
What’s the best way to detect air leaks?
Professional home energy auditors use a device known as a blower door to determine the amount of air entering or escaping your home. A blower door is essentially a powerful fan that pulls air out of your home, lowering the air pressure inside. This allows higher pressure outside air to flow inside. The analyst will then use infrared cameras or nontoxic smoke to visualize the air leaks in your home.
If you’d rather take a low-cost DIY approach, you can conduct a low-tech building pressurization test yourself. It won’t be as precise and a blower door test, but it’ll put you on the right path.
- Check the forecast and time your test for a windy day — this makes it easier to feel the drafts.
- Turn off combustion appliances such as gas ranges, ovens, furnaces and water heaters.
- Close all your windows, exterior doors, vents, and flues.
- Turn on exhaust fans — like bathroom exhaust fans and range hoods — or use a tight-fitting window exhaust fan to suck air out of your home.
- Light an incense stick and pass it around the edges of common “problem areas.” (See above for a full list.) Not a fan of incense? Dampen your hand and slowly move it around these areas — drafts will feel cool to your hand.
Why does air sealing matter?
Lower energy bills
When your home leaks air, your heating system has to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature. That means higher energy consumption — and higher utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air sealing and insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by an average of 15%, and in some cases even more.
In the Tennessee Valley, where temperatures can swing dramatically between seasons, a well-sealed home helps your HVAC system operate more efficiently and last longer.
Improved comfort
A drafty home isn’t just inefficient — it’s uncomfortable. Air leaks can lead to cold spots in certain rooms, inconsistent temperatures between floors, and the frustration that comes with being both uncomfortable and tired of spending more on heating.
When you seal air leaks and add the right amount of insulation, your home maintains a more consistent temperature year-round.
Better indoor air quality
Air sealing also helps protect your indoor air. Gaps in your building envelope don’t just let conditioned air escape — they can let in dust, pollen, mold spores — and even unwanted pests and houseguests (of the critter variety). In some cases, leaks from crawlspaces or attics can allow moisture to accumulate, resulting in a musty odor or mold growth.
Air sealing and insulation can be a big win for allergy sufferers and families with young children or older adults.
How can I fix air leaks?
You don’t have to do everything at once. Focus on key areas that can make the biggest difference:
Seal doors and windows.
- Use weatherstripping around doors and movable window sashes.
- Apply caulk to seal cracks around stationary window frames and exterior trim.
- Install door sweeps to block drafts at the bottom of exterior doors.
Address the attic and crawlspace.
- Look for gaps around plumbing vents, electrical wiring, and chimneys in your attic.
- Use expanding foam or caulk to seal small holes, and install covers or gaskets where needed.
- In crawlspaces, sealing gaps between the foundation and framing can stop cold air from entering your floors.
Add or upgrade insulation.
If you want to level up, consider adding or upgrading your insulation. In the South, many homes are under-insulated — especially in older houses. If the floor joists are exposed in your attic, for example, that’s a strong indication that you need additional insulation. Fortunately, rebates are available. Here are key areas to consider:
- Attic insulation: Consider blown-in cellulose or fiberglass batt insulation to reach the recommended R-values for your region.
- Crawlspace insulation: Insulating the floor above the crawlspace can help maintain warmth on the first floor.
- Wall insulation: Harder to retrofit, but sometimes possible with dense-pack cellulose or foam injection.
You don’t always need a full insulation overhaul. Even topping off attic insulation or insulating around rim joists can make a big difference.
Not sure where to start? We’re here to help.
With the right support and incentives, making your home more efficient doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by exploring rebates available for insulation, air sealing, heat pumps, mini splits, and other energy upgrades.
Need a contractor you can trust? Use TVA EnergyRight’s Quality Contractor Network to find licensed, insured professionals who are vetted for quality, safety, and customer service.
How to save on your energy bill.
Wondering how to save on your energy bill? Give these energy-saving tips and easy updates a whirl.
Whether you rent or own your home, TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company are here to help you get started on your energy-saving journey. We’ve rounded up 25 ways to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Saving energy — and money — can be as easy as the flip of a switch.
Read on to find free DIY home improvements, and learn more about valuable rebates on home energy upgrades!
25 ways how to save on your energy bill.
1. Take our free DIY Home Energy Assessment.
Answer a few questions about your home, appliances, insulation, and heating and cooling systems to find out how your home uses and loses energy.
At the end of your DIY home energy assessment, you’ll gain access to an interactive online dashboard with energy improvement recommendations specific to your home. Plus, you’ll receive a free energy-saving kit and a $10 home improvement store gift card in the mail.
2. Find a home energy rebate that’s right for you.
From up to $3,000 rebates on HVAC systems to hundreds of dollars off air sealing and insulation, home energy rebates from TVA EnergyRight and your local power company increase the affordability of upgrades that lower utility bills and boost your indoor comfort. Explore rebates.
3. Set calendar reminders for monthly tasks and recurring energy-saving chores.
Let technology do the worrying for you! For recurring events, like changing your air filter at least once every three months or switching the direction of your ceiling fans seasonally (counterclockwise in the summer and clockwise in the winter), simply add them to your calendar and enjoy the satisfaction of checking them off as they pop up!
4. Save with smart power strips.
Slay vampire energy — that’s the electricity your electronics use when they’re plugged in, but not in use — and save as much as $100 per year. Reduce your standby power load and save 5-10% with smart power strips, ENERGY STAR appliances and by unplugging infrequently used electronics (Energy.gov). It’s surprising, but small appliances like curling irons, electric razors and printers use energy even when you’re not using them. If you plug it in, and you use it only occasionally (or briefly), power it all the way down when you’re done and unplug it from the outlet.
5. Adjust your thermostat by a few degrees.
Heating and cooling your home uses a lot of energy. Did you know that you can save up to 10% on your total air conditioning costs with a smart thermostat (Energy.gov)? For optimal savings, we recommend keeping your thermostat set to 78° F in the summer and 68° F in the winter.
6. Join our Smart Thermostat Rewards program.
When you join our Smart Thermostat Rewards program, you can help keep energy costs low and get rewarded with sign-up and annual rebates. Note: not all local power companies are participating in the program.
7. Schedule an HVAC system tune-up.
Routine HVAC maintenance can improve your system’s efficiency and help it last longer. Get a tune-up on your electric heating or cooling system and redeem your $50 rebate. Explore all rebates.
8. Have your duct system professionally inspected and maintained.
Did you know that leaky, uninsulated ducts can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems by up to 20%? Keep clean air flowing and keep your heating and cooling systems working at peak efficiency. (ENERGYSTAR.gov)
9. Uncover blocked air vents.
If there’s anything blocking your air vents or intakes — like a couch, bed, rug or pile of backpacks — it’s going to make your HVAC system work harder to keep a controlled temperature. You want unobstructed vents for maximum airflow and maximum energy savings.
10. Weatherstrip your doors and windows.
A little gap here, a little gap there … add up. The experts at This Old House have found that a gap as small as ⅛ inch around the entryway of a door is like drilling a 5-inch hole through the outside wall! Seal everything up with caulk and weatherstripping.
11. Fuzzy bunnies are cute. Dust bunnies aren’t.
Dust, lint and pet hair are attracted to ductwork, bathroom exhaust fans, and the back of your refrigerator — we love furry friends, but we’re not fans of dust bunnies. All that dust makes your appliances work harder, increasing your energy bill and adding unnecessary extra wear and tear.
12. Install high-efficiency LED lights.
Installing 10 high-efficiency 60W equivalent LED bulbs can save you more than $50 per year! And of course, saving energy is as easy as a flip of a switch — so be sure to turn off lights as you leave a room.
13. Use the dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand.
An ENERGY STAR® dishwasher uses less than four gallons of water per cycle and can save about 3,850 gallons of water in its lifetime. On the other hand, washing dishes by hand uses four gallons every two minutes! That means running a partial load is probably going to be more efficient than handwashing a sink full of dishes. (We think that’s worth celebrating!)
14. Skip the pre-rinse, really!
The energy efficiency of dishwashers has come a long way (see above), and so has the cleaning power of dishwashing detergents. In fact, enzyme-based dish detergents work better when they have a little something to cling to. Food scraps still need to go into the garbage or compost, but skip the pre-rinse and you’ll save water and electricity.
15. Set it and forget it.
Setting your water heater to 120° F can save you up to 22% annually. It’s also hot enough for a good shower and not so hot that it scalds!
16. Pull the refrigerator slightly away from the wall.
Your refrigerator needs room in the back so air can circulate and the heat it generates has space to dissipate. Make sure there are about two inches between the refrigerator and the back wall.
17. Keep your freezer full and avoid overfilling your refrigerator.
An overfull refrigerator or freezer traps cold air, and a full, but not-too-full, refrigerator and freezer mean air can flow and your items will stay cold.
18. Clean your oven and range.
Much like dirty or dusty refrigerator coils, a dirty stove has to work harder to heat itself, and that’s going to drive up your energy costs. (It can be hazardous, too!) Fill up a spray bottle with a mixture of water, white vinegar and dish soap and start scrubbing.
19. Match pot and pan sizes to burner sizes.
Large burners use more energy. A too-small pot or pan on a large burner means you’re heating space with nothing on it and burning up easy savings.
20. Here comes the sun! Be solar savvy.
Close your curtains and blinds during hot summer days to reduce solar gain. In the winter, let the sun shine in — but remember to close your curtains and shades in the evenings.
21. Take time off from tech.
This one’s as much a challenge as it is a tip: Pick one night a week to go screen-free. Substitute TV, tablets and video games with activities that use less electricity but burn more energy (and are arguably more fun) like strumming a guitar, playing a classic board game, solving an old-school puzzle or reading a good book.
22. Use the spin cycle and air-dry (some of) your laundry.
Give your clothes an extra spin to minimize drying time. You can even “damp dry” items and hang them to dry on an attractive — and foldable — drying rack.
23. Clean the dryer vent.
You may be sensing a trend here, but as with your HVAC air filters and refrigerator coils, a full lint trap makes your dryer work harder, plus it’s also a fire hazard. Empty the lint trap after every dryer use. Twice a year, clean the full dryer vent, the part that extends from the back of your dryer to the outside of your home. This is especially important if your dryer stays in heavy rotation and/or you have furry pets.
24. Rent or buy an e-bike.
E-bikes give you all the fun of a traditional bicycle, but they’re easier on the joints — and get you where you’re going a little quicker. They’re great for light grocery runs and cargo bikes are a hit with the kids! Park the car, save on fuel and head out for an adventure.
25. Try out mass transit.
If you live in an urban area, give public transportation a whirl. Online apps and maps make it easier than ever to see schedules and pay. Next time you’re headed to a concert, sporting event or the mall, hop on your area’s local public transportation and save a bundle.