DIY solutions for keeping your house warm

Problem Areas in the House Mostly the trouble creeps in obvious places since you can feel the wind chivvying through the problem space, however small it may be. The trouble may be with insulation, cracked foundation, gas leak or faulty ductwork. The problem on the surface can be easily identified and fixed, but for deeper problem, you may require help. Often simply running your hand on the area will give an idea of how much damage is there and to what extent it is allowing the icy gusts to seep in. Tracing the draft The first step to tracing the draft is to weathers-trip doors and caulk windows to eliminate drafts and thus block the obvious entry points. Next step would be to check near light switches and electrical outlets on outside-facing walls. Finally, drafts can be easily traced within the house using a lighted candle, incense stick or single-ply tissue taped over a ruler or dowel. Hold the candle or any one of the articles mentioned against the area where you feel the draft and move it slowly from one point to the next, stopping only to heck for the draft. You can identify the draft by checking the direction of the smoke or if the flame wavers or if the tissue flutters. Another source of draft is exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms so ensure that the damper is perfectly fit around it. Fixing the draft In case you find a draft around the electrical fittings take off the faceplate and insert a gasket or soy-based insulating foam. In case the draft is coming from the exhaust, have the damper or roof cap checked and replace it in case of damage. Catching draft area in the thermals Using you lighted candle, incense stick or tissue, check places with wires, pipes or ductwork running across floors or ceilings. Also, check kitchen and bathroom cabinets, closets, phone jacks, outdoor plumbing connections and cable hookups. In case you find a leak in any of these places, close it with a caulk, insulating foam or gasket. Attics are another likely place to catch the draft. So, if it is accessible look for dirty insulation around the joists. Often, the area of bad insulation, where draft is leaking, is a source for letting in pollutants into the house. Summary:

We have to keep our house warm in winters to ensure a cozy, healthy environment for all the members, especially kids, in the house. Here are some DIY tips to keep your home warm in winters.