New Jersey's Clean Energy Program supports ENERGY STAR's Rule Your Attic Campaign this fall. The campaign addresses how homeowners can improve their attic's energy efficiency through air sealing and insulation measures. Visit your gas or electric company website to learn how to contact a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor in your area to find out how you can Rule Your Attic and save energy and money!

Following are illustrations identifying common problems and what proper attic sealing and insulation should look like.

Common Attic Air Leaks

This image shows how and where air can easily escape from a home's attic. 9 out of 10 homes in the U.S. are under-insulated. Having a contractor seal air leaks around your home and add insulation can help you be more comfortable and save money on your home's energy bills.

Does Your Insulation Measure Up?

A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor will determine how much insulation you need as recommended by the Department of Energy. More insulation is recommended for the northern states because of colder climates.

Proper Attic Sealing and Insulation

A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor will properly air seal and add insulation throughout your home. The following picture shows what a properly insulated attic should look like.

Summer-Winter

The following image confirms that when insulation is properly installed, warm air stays out in the summer and keeps the inside of the house cool whereas warm air stays in during the winter keeping your home warm. This is how you know you are not wasting energy.

Insulation Recommendations

The following illustration demonstrates how insufficient insulation can trap hot air inside the entire home when not needed. Properly installed insulation at the recommended level will keep your home comfortable all year round.

Duct Sealing

In houses with forced-air heating and cooling systems, ducts are used to distribute conditioned air throughout the house. In a typical house, however, about 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. This results in higher utility bills and an uncomfortable home. A Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor will ensure that all of your home's ducts are properly sealed.

For more information on the Home Performance program, contact your electric or gas utility.