(Ohio) – Heat loss through windows is responsible for 25-30 percent of heating energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

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It doesn’t have to be that way, because weatherstripping is simple and probably the most cost-effective way to keep heating costs down.

1. Run the back of your hand around the framing of your windows and exterior doors. You’ll be checking for any cold breeze and listening for any housing or whistling sounds of air coming through the cracks. Also, place your hands in front of electrical outlets on exterior walls to check for any drafts that may be due to a lack of insulation. You can apply weather stripping where needed, and insert fam insulation inside your outlet covers, if necessary.
2. Try lighting a candle and hold it 2 inches from the windows and doors. Move it around at various points around the window and door frames. You’ll be looking for any flickering that results from drafts and not from your own movement. You can apply silicone caulk or rope caulk if you do have drafty areas.
3. Close the curtains and turn off your interior lighting. Try to make it as dark as possible inside your home when it’s sunny outside. Make note of any sunlight that comes through where the door meets the jamb and threshold. You can apply weather stripping anywhere you see gaps.