Good, solid insulation in your home is essential for your comfort and HVAC efficiency. It slows the flow of heat, keeping it in during the winter and out during the summer. Is your home well insulated? Here’s how to ensure solid insulation throughout the house.
- Attic insulation. When they hear “insulation,” attic insulation is what most people think of. Loose-fill or batt insulation on the attic floor keeps your furnace heat from rising out of the house in the winter. To achieve solid insulation you should have 10 to 13 inches of attic insulation — or enough to cover your joists.
- Basement insulation. Basements are typically cold and damp in winter, but with proper insulation, they can be warm and dry. Insulating your basement is a fairly simple job that can be done in an afternoon, but it does require basic carpentry and DIY skills. If you’re not comfortable doing it on your own, call your HVAC contractor.
- Duct insulation. If your ducts aren’t insulated, air loses heat energy as it travels through them so by the time it reaches your home, it’s closer to room temperature and not as effective. Call your HVAC technician to check your ductwork insulation and seal any leaks to maintain proper airflow.
- Wall insulation. Insulating your walls keeps conditioned air inside the house and keeps individual rooms from experiencing heat loss. It’s best to do this while the house is being built. It’s technically possible to insulate interior walls in an existing house, but it’s not recommended, as it can lead to mold, mildew, and other problems. You can, however, insulate exterior walls. Talk to your HVAC contractor to determine how best to go about it.
- Floor insulation. Particularly if your floor is above a crawlspace or unheated garage, insulating it has multiple benefits. It can help reduce drafts and prevent your pipes from freezing, as well as reduce moisture in your home. In the summer, it prevents your floor from conducting heat so the house stays cooler.
For help ensuring solid insulation in your home, contact us at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We keep Indianapolis homes efficient and comfortable.
