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Mariegael just sent us this question:
I live in an old, Victorian apartment. I can't so much as paint. So, how can I save energy on heating without making permanent changes to the apartment? I use Frost King on the windows, but what about the doors? The only stuff I've seen is like a tape, but you have to remove the doors to install it. How can I save energy this winter?
Hey Mariegael,
Your question is really timely. Actually, we've just been asking ourselves the same question. Our landlords recently did some minor weatherstripping around our doors, but we're wondering if we could improve on their work and also tackle our windows.
We've been looking at these instructions for weatherstripping windows and doors at Lowes.com. They label the work at the beginner skill level (which is encouraging) and the material for the doors looks a bit more substantial than tape, but might be too "permanent" for your situation?
We won't presume to know what your landlord is like, but have you considered talking to him/her about insulation and weatherstripping? You could make a compelling argument for the energy and money saving possibilities.
From the Lowes website: Did you know that a 1/8" space between a standard exterior door and its threshold is equivalent to a two square inch hole in the wall? Closing those gaps can save you up to 15 percent in heating and cooling costs.
Does anyone have any other suggestions?
Related:
• Green Insulation Installation
• Good Question: Windows vs. Insulation
Image: Via Lowes.com
I use a double sided draft guard for my apartment door. It takes no permenent instillation you just slide it under the door. It's great because it moves with the door so you dont have to pick it up when you go in and out. The two sided feature also helps to keep out more draft. You can also take the covering off and wash it as needed.
You can see one here:
http://www.gadgetcorner.com/house/draftguard/draft-guard.jpg
view Rabbit's profile
I was going to suggest the one-sided version of what Rabbit suggested - I've never seen the two-sided version before. The Vermont COuntry store sells them (Search for "Draft Blocker" on their site), and I think I've seen them at Hardware stores too. You can put them infront of any door or window crack, and they're not at all permenant.
view Rosie's profile
I'm planing on making them for my new appt (when I move in in a month)
http://flickr.com/photos/notmartha/sets/72057594068949613/
view BlindCaveFish's profile
Frost king electrical outlet covers. Will save at least one or two degrees.
view Amphetamine's profile
I go low-tech for winter heating. I simply throw my big old body pillow in front of the door, blocking the cold air from coming in from underneath. Works great!
view bad home cook's profile