Most experts agree that there are three often overlooked areas of heat loss in homes that can cost homeowners around $500 a year!

• Fireplaces
• Attic Stairs
• Clothes Dryers

Our next three posts will look at each of these top heat losers! This post focuses on fireplaces.

The Natural Handyman explains that having a fireplace is almost as bad as leaving a window open all winter. About 65% of all homes in the United States have either a wood burning or gas fireplace.

One remarkable research study showed that an open damper on an unused fireplace in a well-insulated house can raise overall heating energy consumption by 30%!

The Solution

Install a fireplace draft stopper which is an inflatable pillow that seals the damper, eliminating any air leaks. It can be easily removed when you want to use the fireplace and then put back to stop the heat from escaping from your home. You can purchase a fireplace draft stopper at the Green Products Company.