Winter is the perfect time to ensure that your home is properly weatherized! Whether it’s something simple like installing window kits, or something more complicated like adding insulation, we may be able to help.
DIY Weatherization
Installing a window kit is an effective way to reduce drafts and prevent heat loss in your home. The plastic layer works as an additional barrier to keep warm air in and cold air out. The only materials needed beyond the kit itself to ensure a proper fit to your windows are a blow dryer and a pair of scissors. The window kit will come with a roll of double-sided tape. First, clean and dust around your window. Then, firmly apply your tape to the outside edges of your window frame. Next, you will want to apply the plastic film and remove the outer liner of your tape at the same time. These can be removed in the spring. After you have ensured a proper seal with no air gaps, cut the excess plastic wrap, and use the blow dryer to tighten the seal. Check out our video below for further details on how to install a window kit.
If window kits don’t work for your space, there are some other great temporary options, such as caulking cord and caulking tape. Caulking cord is a pliable putty that can be applied directly to the gaps in your windows. If your window won’t close all the way, caulking cord can fill the gaps to limit air flow. The caulking tape works the same way and is as simple as a peel and stick. These options can help reduce the cold leaks in your home without completely sealing off your windows. Both caulking tape and caulking cord can be removed in the spring.
The photo to the right is a great example of what rope caulk looks like on your window. Simply roll out the putty and place on the cracks around your window. You may even open your window and close the caulk in the gap to create an even tighter seal.
How Eco3 Can Help
If you’re looking to take on a bigger weatherization project or want to learn more about your options, we can help! We perform home energy assessments to help you determine the best next steps in your home energy journey.
Our current home assessment includes:
- A home air leakage test using a blower door
- Infrared imaging to identify cold leaks
- HVAC and electrical system analysis
- Metering appliance efficiencies
- Going over utility usage to identify energy and cost savings
- Energy saving installations
- Detailed report after the assessment
It is important for everyone to have access to information on how to make their home as efficient and comfortable as possible. That’s why we offer our services for free, along with additional weatherization if needed, to individuals who meet our Income Qualifications. We offer an out-of-pocket option for those who do not meet our income guidelines.
The Home Energy Support Program is another great resource for Minnesota Power customers. This process is intended to talk you through any billing questions first. Then, you may be sent back to us for a free, smaller version of the home assessment if the Minnesota Power team decides your home may have an electric-related energy issue beyond billing.
Sign up for an Energy Assessment here, or contact the Eco3 Energy Team for more information! Phone: 218-203-0464, Email: energy@ecolibrium3.org