Insulation isn’t just for attics. Heat can also escape through uninsulated walls and floors, too. Consumers Energy offers these tips for wrapping your home in the warmest and most energy-efficient blanket possible.

• Insulation is judged by its R-value. The higher the R-value, the better the material keeps heat in during cold weather. Older homes should have an insulating value of R-11 in the outside walls and floors over unheated areas. They should have at least an R-19 value in the ceiling or attic.
• Heat rises, but it also sinks into basements and crawl spaces through uninsulated floors. Make your home more comfortable and cut heating losses by insulating floors. This can be done by covering them with a pad and rug.
• Prevent heat loss by wrapping heat ducts with insulation. Also, use duct foil tape where rectangular heat ducts join, and use water-based acrylic latex caulk where round and rectangular fittings meet.
• Seal cracks where pipes, electrical wires and ducts enter your home.
• About 2 percent of air escapes your home through electrical outlets, especially on outside walls. Install insulation made for electrical outlets and use safety plugs to stop cold air from entering your home.
• Insulate hot water pipes in unheated areas to keep hot water hot.

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