Test your home for energy leaks

Your home should be tested twice a year (once in the spring and then in the winter) to see if it is still protecting you from unwanted drafts, pollution, pests, or moisture. If it’s not, you can then prepare your home to seal in the cool or warm air that may be leaking out through unsealed cracks or gaps.

Project Time:Approximately 1.5 hours

Complexity:

Test #1 - The Dollar Bill Test: Place a dollar bill between the door jam or between the window sash and sill. With the door or window closed, attempt to remove the dollar bill. If it slides out easily, you are losing energy.

Test #2 - Flashlight Test: Shine a flashlight around the edges of your door at night. If you can see light from the other side, you're losing energy.

Test #3 - Moist Hand: Pass a moist hand around the edge of your doors and windows. Where you feel a draft, you are losing energy. This test works best on cold, windy days.

If your home has a problem passing this test, you can find out more about how to insulate spaces by referring to the tip sheet “Seal and Insulate.”
Shopping List

GE Products
GE Silicone II* Window and Door
GE Silicone II* XST*

    Tools and Supplies
  • A dollar bill
  • A flashlight
Launch Tools
-Glossarylist
-MSDS Toollist