Air sealing reduces the amount of air leaks in and out of your home. Two simple yet effective techniques are caulking and weather-stripping that offer quick returns on investment. To learn more about air sealing go here. Related to insulation, there are different types with different properties but most insulation works by slowing heat flows. Some insulation, however, such as radiant barriers and reflective insulation actually reduce radiant heat gain. To learn more about insulation go here.
Working on weatherization is an investment: yes, it can cost money now to save later! To help with this cost, there are new programs through the Inflation Reduction Act, passed in August 2022, that offer incentives to upgrade your home. For example, the 25C Investment Tax Credit for Clean Energy Property (also known as the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.) Under this new law, the tax credit is extended, increased, and expanded for energy efficiency improvements through 2032. Households can deduct up to 30 percent of the costs for eligible home improvements that year with a $1,200 annual limit (for equipment and installation). These improvements include $150 for home energy audits, $500 for exterior doors, and $600 for exterior windows and skylights, efficient central air conditioners, electric panel upgrades, and natural gas, propane, or oil water heaters or boilers. Finally, a special part where you can actually exceed the $1,200 annual limit is for electric or natural gas heat pump water heaters, electric or natural gas heat pumps, and biomass stoves and boilers where up to $2,000 can be covered.