Basement

Routine Care Task

Check basement pipe and duct insulation

Proper insulation of cold-water pipes helps prevent those pipes from "sweating" and dripping during the hot summer months, and possible freezing during the winter.

Proper insulation of hot-water pipes and air ducts prevents energy loss.

Priority

Timing: May (every 2 years)

NOTE: The tasks and timings shown here for your Basement are based on a single-family home located in Massachusetts with a default set of home care goals and priorities.

If you setup your Home-Wizard personal home manager for a different location with different home care goals, your recommended home care program can have different tasks and timings for your {home feature}.

How To

Check the insulation of all basement pipes and ducts. Check air ducts for any air leaks. Look for sections that should be joined, but have separated. Inspect for any holes.

If you use duct tape to repair and seal your ducts, look for tape with the "UL" logo on it, which is less likely to degrade, crack, or lose its bond with age.

If any insulation has come loose, it should be repaired or replaced.

Helpful Accessories

Thermal Leak Detector

Helps homeowners track down power-draining drafts

Amazon.com >

consumer reviews, choices, prices

Foil Duct Tape (UL)

Seals hot or cold air ducts

Amazon.com >

consumer reviews, choices, prices

Benefits

The benefits of this task are relatively high. Doing this task can help prevent pipe damage and energy losses.

Energy Savings
Health & Safety
Maintaining Value
Allergy Control

Costs

The cost of this task is moderately low. Depending on your particular basement, it is estimated that this task should only take about 45 minutes to complete, and the task is relatively easy to do. Depending on how your basement is finished, you may need a flashlight to do parts of your inspection.