How to Plug Drafts in Heating Systems

As heating our homes in winter becomes more expensive, one of the best ways to cut down on mounting utility bills is to plug all the drafts. Many heating systems, as they age, will develop small leaks, which need to be plugged. Homes that use the fireplace as a source of heat should also be considered as a culprit in letting out your heat. Read on to learn how to plug drafts in heating systems.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Close the damper in your fireplace when not in use. Consider adding additional protection, such as the pillow by Draft Stopper, which fits up into your fireplace and completes the seal.

2. Remove floor vents and check for any wear that could be causing air to leak through the sides of the vents of the heating system. Caulk or lay down plywood. Replace the vent over the seal.

3. Use a feather or the back of your hand to check for leaks in the ductwork in your basement. Apply duct tape to small holes and cracks. Apply an adhesive insulation if the crack is larger than a thread. Then put the duct tape over the dried foam.

4. Check around the base of the exhaust leading from your heater to the outside. Caulk around it if there is any light coming through.

5. Feel for drafts from radiators, especially the areas around where they are attached to the floor. Caulk around any exposed areas that can cause drafts through the floor.

6. Wrap your water heater. It will keep the water warmer and prevent extra fuel needed to heat the water cooled from surrounding outside or basement coldness.

Resources

• Draft Stopper Website