How to seal air leaks around doors and windows on a budget
Seal door and window air leaks cheaply by applying adhesive-backed foam weatherstripping to door frames and window sashes, caulking exterior gaps with…
See the fixFix Library
Energy Efficiency
Practical, step-by-step fixes for energy efficiency problems — 30 published so far.
how to seal air leaks around electrical outlets on exterior walls
To seal air leaks around exterior wall outlets, first turn off the circuit breaker, then remove the cover plates, install foam gaskets…
See the fix
how to stop cold air coming through electrical outlets on exterior walls
Cold air enters through exterior wall outlets because the electrical boxes aren't sealed. Turn off power, remove cover plates, and spray foam…
See the fix
how to stop cold air leaking through electrical outlets on exterior walls
Cold air leaks through exterior wall outlets because the electrical boxes create gaps in the insulation and air barrier. Install foam gaskets…
See the fix
How to stop smart TV and streaming devices from drawing power when turned off
To stop smart TVs and streaming devices from drawing standby power, plug them into a smart power strip that cuts electricity when…
See the fix
Programmable thermostat vs smart thermostat which saves more energy
A smart thermostat typically saves more energy than a programmable one because it learns your schedule, adjusts automatically, and can be controlled…
See the fix
Programmable vs smart thermostat: which saves more on heating bills?
A smart thermostat typically saves 10-12% on heating bills by learning your schedule and adjusting automatically, while a programmable thermostat saves about…
See the fix
Smart thermostat vs programmable thermostat: which actually cuts heating costs more?
A smart thermostat typically saves 10-15% on heating and cooling by learning schedules and adjusting automatically, while a programmable thermostat saves 5-10%…
See the fix
Which saves more energy: a smart thermostat or a programmable thermostat?
A smart thermostat saves more energy than a programmable thermostat because it learns your schedule, adjusts automatically when you're away, and can…
See the fix
Why does my Energy Star refrigerator use more electricity than my old one?
Your new Energy Star fridge may use more power because it's larger, has more features like ice makers, or runs more often…
See the fix
Why does my ENERGY STAR refrigerator use more electricity than the yellow label estimates?
Your ENERGY STAR fridge likely exceeds its label estimate because real-world usage — frequent door openings, warm room temperature, overstuffed shelves, or…
See the fix
why does my heat pump run nonstop even when it's not that cold outside
Your heat pump runs constantly because the outdoor temperature is near its balance point, the thermostat is set too high, the air…
See the fix