The Science of Heat Retention

Want to know a great way to save money this winter in California?

Add more insulation. Your Sherman Oaks, CA, home will retain heat better and stay warmer for longer periods.

Space heating is the number one energy consumer in your home. It accounts for approximately 45 percent of the energy used, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

At Air Products & Services, we are pleased to offer quality insulation services proven to reduce your monthly utility bills. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer. 

The Science of Heat Retention in [county] 

When heat escapes, your thermostat detects a temperature dip, prompting it to signal your furnace, heat pump, or boiler to start the next cycle. 

The more your system cycles, the more you pay in energy bills. Heat retention makes your home more comfortable and indoor temperatures more consistent.

How Can I Retain Heat This Winter? 

Try these four methods to keep the warmth from escaping: 

1. Insulation Update 

Do you have old or insufficient insulation? Let our Air Products & Services technicians install a new layer of insulation. Our specialists will perform an energy audit with thermal imaging to find areas where heat is escaping. Next, we’ll provide solutions to ensure your home is energy efficient and weatherproofed. We can fully insulate your attic, crawlspace, ceilings, and walls.

2. Professional Ductwork Sealing

Leaky air ducts are a common problem contributing to high bills and temperature inconsistencies around your Sherman Oaks, CA, home. A professional can run tests to pinpoint leaks and seal them.

3. Stop Window Air Leaks 

Tiny spaces in your window frames and sashes allow heat to escape in the winter and hot air to sneak in during the summer, driving up your energy bills. Here are some inexpensive solutions to seal these leaks and boost your home’s efficiency:

• Thermal-Insulated Curtains: These aren’t just for aesthetics! Thermal curtains are made from thicker, denser fabric, often with multiple layers or a special lining designed to block heat transfer. When drawn, they create an insulating barrier between your room and the windowpane, trapping a layer of air to prevent convection and significantly reducing drafts and heat loss or gain. They also block light and dampen sound.

• Spray Foam: For stubborn gaps and cracks around the actual window frame (where the window meets the wall, not between the moving parts of the window itself), a minimal expanding foam sealant can be effective. Applied from a can, this foam expands to fill irregular spaces, creating an airtight and insulating barrier that stops drafts.

• Polycarbonate Sheets: These clear, plastic sheets offer a step up from typical window films. By securely attaching a polycarbonate sheet to the interior of your window frame, you create an insulating air pocket between the sheet and your existing window. The trapped air acts as an additional thermal barrier, significantly reducing heat transfer and drafts, much like a storm window but often at a lower cost and with better clarity than some films.

4. Closed Chimney Flue

Leaving the flue open when the fireplace isn’t used is an easy mistake many homeowners make. It’s also an easy way to lose money due to heat escaping. 

What Is R-Value?

When choosing the proper insulation, it’s essential to take stock of its R-value, which measures its performance and heat resistance. Different parts of the country have optimal R-values based on climate. Speak with your Air Products & Services expert to determine the right R-value insulation for your Sherman Oaks, CA, home.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What insulation is best for attics?

Blown-in cellulose can conform to irregular spaces and provide excellent coverage. Fiberglass batts provide good thermal performance and are easy to install.

Which area of the home is best for do-it-yourself insulation?

The attic is the most suitable area for a DIY insulation project. However, careful attention to cutting, fitting, and avoiding compression is crucial to maintain effectiveness. 

Can I DIY duct sealing?

You can tackle some basic duct sealing. Using mastic sealant or specialized foil tape (not duct tape!) to seal visible gaps, seams, and connections on accessible ductwork can significantly improve efficiency. For thorough sealing of hard-to-reach ducts or for optimal results, professional duct sealing services are recommended to ensure comprehensive coverage and long-term performance.

Air Seal and Insulate Today!

At Air Products & Services, we are proud to provide quality insulation and air sealing services to our neighbors in Sherman Oaks, CA and surrounding communities. Call us today at 818-334-8403 or [request- service-online].