My house is hot/cold! Insulation or window problem or something else?

[thestrangebrew1]

So it's been mid 90s the last few days and our house has gotten up around 86 before we give in and run the AC. During the winter it got as cold as high 50s before we gave in and ran the heater. House was built in 1980 roughly and I'm trying to avoid another $2k pge bill like we had when we first moved in it last summer. We are also considering solar. How can I tell what the problem is and where to start first?

 

[herm0016]

things to check: are the doors insulated and do they have proper weatherstripping? how much insulation is in the attic? is there proper venting on the eaves and ridge of the roof?

next: insulated glass in the windows? caulking around doors, windows and anything that penetrates the outside shell? Do you have a black roof that get super hot? we recently got a gray roof and it seems to keep the whole house cooler than the dark brown that was there before.

 

[boomerang]

See if your local utility offers energy audits before running to and fro and perhaps throwing money away in the process. If the utility doesn't offer them at no charge, consider hiring an outside firm to do the audit. It's good to spend your money wisely and the professionals can tell what is going to give you the best return for your buck.

 

[thestrangebrew1]

Thanks herm. I'll check the weather stripping at the doors and check insulation/caulking at windows. We do have a grey roof. The roof was replaced within the last 3 years I believe.

@Boom: I'll call pge and find out if they provide the service or recommend professionals. Thanks!

 

[NutBucket]

Step one. Go in the attic and see what you've got insulation wise.