AC-Appliance Pros
Energy Savings
Structure
Insulation
Insulation retards the movement of heat energy into or out
of the house. How well the material reduces heat flow is measured
in R-value. The higher the R-value per inch, the better insulation
value of the material.
Insulation "R" Value
(A better way to measure insulation)
| R-Value |
Approximate Thickness Batt or
Blanket |
Cellulose |
Approximate Thickness Blown or
Loose-Fill Glass Fiber |
Rockwool |
| R-11 |
3"-3-1/2" |
3" |
5" |
4" |
| R-13 |
3-1/2"-3-5/8" |
4" |
6" |
5" |
| R-19 |
5-1/2"-6" |
5" |
9" |
7" |
| R-22 |
6"-6-1/2" |
6" |
10" |
8" |
| R-26 |
7"-8-1/4" |
7" |
12" |
9" |
| R-30 |
8-1/2"-9-1/2" |
8" |
14" |
10" |
| R-38 |
11"-12" |
10" |
17" |
13" |
The amount of insulation in the walls, floor and especially
the ceiling will directly affect the amount of energy used to
heat and cool a home.
Air Infiltration
Unwanted air movement into and out of the house can affect
heating and cooling kWh usage by as much as 40%. The chart below
shows areas which need attention.
Air Leakage Test Results (for average home of 1,780
sq. ft., 100 homes tested)
25% Soleplate
20% Wall Outlets
14% Duct System
12% Exterior Windows
05% Range Vent
05% Fireplace
05% Exterior Doors
05% Recessed Spot Lights
03% Dryer Vent
03% Other
02% Sliding Glass Door
01% Bath Vent
Soleplate
The soleplate is the 2" x 4" board that rests along
the perimeter of the slab foundation. It is best to have this
area sealed when a home is being built, but it can be reached
by removing the interior baseboards along the bottom of the perimeter
walls. Caulking can be applied where the soleplate meets the
foundation.
Wall Outlets
Air leakage can be prevented by placing gaskets behind wall
outlet and light switch covers. This effectively stops air movement.
Windows and Doors
Windows need weatherstripping along the sides, top and bottom
of the sash. Exterior doors should have a snug-fitting door sweep
or threshold, and should be weatherstripped along the inside
of the frame. Caulking should be applied around the outside of
window and door frames where they join the exterior wall.
Heating and Cooling Duct
Systems
Duct joints should be secured with screws and sealed with
duct tape. Any air distribution ductwork located in unconditioned
areas should be wrapped with 2" of insulation.
Fireplace
A glass screen helps control air loss. Keep damper closed
when not in use.
If you don't know which firm to call, ask if the contractor
is a member of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
consumers can call (972)247-5383 or 1-800-260-8041 to confirm
the contractor is a member or to locate a contractor who subscribes
to the organization's code or ethics.
©2007 AC-Appliance Pros All Rights Reserved
1701 North Greenville Ave. Suite 606
Richardson, Texas 75081
972-664-0055
TACL B00027067E
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