The Gas Company provides weatherization and furnace repair/replacement for qualified residences of limited-income customers.

Energy Conservation

• Save up to 25% of your heating costs by installing or upgrading insulation in your attic and walls.

• Caulk and weather-strip drafty windows and doors and save up to 5% on heating costs.

Insulation

Installing insulation is generally the single best step to take to reduce energy waste. Without adequate ceiling insulation, heat goes right through the roof.
The following types of insulation are available at hardware, building supply stores and lumberyards: blanket or batts, loose-fill / blown-in, rigid, and reflective.

When choosing insulation, be sure it meets local building codes and always consider the R-value, a measure of effectiveness. ”R” stands for the resistance to heat flow; the higher the “R” number, the greater the insulating power.

Weather-stripping

Weather-stripping is used to create a tight seal between the moving parts of doors and windows.

When deciding which weather-stripping materials to buy, consider installation instructions, how long it will last, where it will be used and the price. For example, a slightly more expensive material may be a better buy because it will last longer and require less maintenance.

Instructions for installing weather-stripping can be found in home improvement books or weather-stripping kits. You can also ask home-improvement personnel for advice on installation and which type of material you should buy.

Caulking

Caulking should be used to seal gaps between nonmoving parts of doors and windows (such as around frames) and other small openings around the house.

As a house settles, the building materials will often swell and contract, resulting in gaps. These gaps allow outside air to leak in.

You should use the highest quality caulking material suited for your job. It will be probably be easier to apply, perform better, last longer and require less maintenance.

Common types of caulking are oil-base, acrylic latex, butyl, polyvinyl, and silicone. Caulking materials come in rope form, tubes and disposable cartridges for use with caulking guns. The most common method of applying caulking is with a caulking gun.

Check with home improvement stores for the caulking that best suits your needs.

Contractor Selection Tips

• Read our tips on hiring a contractor.

Where can I get more information about insulation, caulking, and weather-stripping?

Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at www.eere.energy.gov

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The actual energy savings obtained in each instance depend on various factors, including geographic location, weather conditions, equipment installed, usage rates, and so forth. Completing multiple energy saving measures will not necessarily result in cumulative savings. Any rebates provided are subject to satisfaction of applicable qualification rules. Certain rebate programs may be modified by the California Public Utilities Commission, and are subject to the availability of funds.