Seal Manufactured Homes To Help Slash Electric Bills

If energy bills for your manufactured home seem too high, the likely culprits are air leaks. Here are some tips that can help you stop leaks from your home—and your wallet.
 
Older manufactured homes, especially those built before 1994, may be plagued by leaking ducts and inadequate insulation. Leaky ductwork can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent. A good time to check for leaks is on a windy day, when you’ll be able to find drafty spots.
 
Experts recommend going after big leaks first. That means plugging all holes around chimneys, vents, water pipes, and heating system ductwork. Seal any duct leaks with mastic. Avoid the use of duct tape, which can dry out and disintegrate when used. Adding insulation to floor, walls, and ceiling cavities can improve energy efficiency, but may be a job for a professional contractor.
 
Once you’ve sealed major leaks, look for smaller ones—around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and light switches. Seal gaps around windows and doors, using caulk on non-moving parts. And replace any worn weather stripping.
 
Caulk or expanding spray foam are perfect in spots where plumbing, wiring, vents and ducting penetrate through walls. Installing foam outlet gaskets behind electrical outlets and light switches—especially on outside walls—can save energy, too.
 
For safety’s sake, make sure that all combustion appliances, such as furnaces, stoves, and water heaters, are properly vented.