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ENERGY STAR
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  1. Home
  2. Energy Savings At Home
  3. Seal and Insulate With ENERGY STAR
  4. Assess the Level of Opportunity

Heat & Cool Efficiently

Seal and Insulate

  • Why Seal and Insulate?
  • Methodology for Estimated Energy Savings
  • Program Requirements
  • Choosing the Appropriate Insulation Type
  • Identify the Problems You Want to Fix
  • Determine the Effort Required
  • Assess the Level of Opportunity
  • Attic Air Sealing Project
  • Attic Insulation Project
  • Basement & Crawlspace Air Sealing and Insulating Project
  • Sealing Behind Window & Door Trim Project
  • Applying Plastic Over Windows Project
  • A DIY Guide to Sealing and Insulating with ENERGY STAR
  • Rule Your Attic! For Comfort and Savings

Expert Home Improvements

Assess the Level of Opportunity

Use the charts below to match the biggest energy savings and comfort opportunities with your next home improvement projects.

Attic
Savings in Energy and Money*

4 out of 5 stars

Savings and Comfort BenefitsThe attic usually has the most potential for energy savings and is typically accessible. Start with the attic if you want to have the highest impact on savings and comfort. Always do attic air sealing before adding insulation.
Projects
  • Attic Air Sealing Project
  • Attic Insulation Project
Basement / Crawlspace
Savings in Energy and Money*

3 out of 5 stars

Savings and Comfort BenefitsOnce the attic has been addressed, the basement or crawlspace is usually the next best place to seal and insulate to reduce energy use and control drafts from below.
Projects
  • Basement/Crawlspace Air Sealing and Insulation Project
Ducts
Savings in Energy and Money*

2 out of 5 stars

Savings and Comfort BenefitsLeaky ducts can be a significant source of energy loss in your home, especially if ducts are located in the attic or crawlspace where conditioned air leaks to the outside.
Projects
  • Duct Air Sealing
  • Duct Insulation
Doors / Windows / Walls
Savings in Energy and Money*

2 out of 5 stars

Savings and Comfort BenefitsLeaks through doors, windows and walls can lead to uncomfortable drafts, but usually have the least impact on energy use. However, these tend to be the most accessible areas and are perfect for a do-it-yourselfer.
Projects
  • Air Sealing Wall Penetrations
  • Air Sealing Electrical Outlets
  • Air Sealing Behind Window and Door Trim
  • Weatherstripping Doors
  • Weatherstripping Windows
  • Applying Plastic Over Windows
  • Air Sealing Fireplaces

*Results will vary based on climate and the age, construction and condition of your home.

GET STARTED ON YOUR PROJECTS

Couple installing thermal insulation
Attic Air Sealing
man installing insulation
Attic Insulation
man installing insulation in a basement
Basement/crawlspace
man caulking a window
Seal Behind Window and Door Trim
sealing a window with plastic sheet
Applying Plastic Over Windows
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