Checking For Heat Loss: Winter Draft Inspection

Published: December 2025

Checking For Heat Loss: Window & Door Draft Inspection Tips For A Cozy CT Winter

When Connecticut’s temperatures drop, even small drafts around windows and doors can make your home feel chilly—and your heating bill skyrocket. During a home inspection, identifying air leaks and insulation gaps is an important part of evaluating your home’s energy efficiency and comfort level.

At Paragon Property Inspections, LLC, we know that properly sealed windows and doors are essential to keeping your home warm, lowering energy costs, and preventing moisture problems. A home inspection that verifies any of these issues can make a big difference in comfort and savings all winter long.

Why It Matters When You Have Drafty Windows And Doors

Cold drafts don’t just make your home uncomfortable—they waste energy and force your heating system to work harder. Over time, that means higher utility bills and unnecessary wear on your HVAC system.

Common Signs Of Heat Loss

• Uneven room temperatures

• Drafts near windows or exterior doors

• Condensation on window panes

• Peeling paint or warped trim

• Rising energy bills in the winter months

These issues often stem from poor sealing, deteriorated weather-stripping, or aging materials that allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter.

Simple Homeowner Checklist To Check For Drafts

Use this quick checklist to inspect for heat loss before the coldest months hit:

• Feel For Air Movement – Run your hand around window frames and door edges to detect drafts.

• Use The Candle Test – Hold a lit candle near suspected gaps; flickering indicates air movement.

• Inspect Weather-Stripping – Look for cracked or missing strips around doors and windows.

• Examine Caulking – Reapply around trim and sashes where you notice gaps or peeling.

• Check Door Alignment – Misaligned doors often leave small openings at the bottom or sides.

• Look For Light Leaks – If you can see daylight through a door frame, you’re losing heat.

How A Home Inspector Helps Identify Heat Loss

A professional home inspector can detect energy inefficiencies that are easy to miss. At Paragon Property Inspections LLC, we assess:

• Window and door condition, including seals and frames.

• Insulation quality and thermal performance using infrared tools.

• Ventilation balance to ensure consistent indoor temperatures.

• Structural gaps that contribute to cold air infiltration.

By addressing these issues early, homeowners can avoid higher heating bills and improve comfort throughout the winter season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How do I know if my home is losing heat through windows and doors?

  If rooms feel drafty, your heating system runs constantly, or you notice cold air near frames, your home is likely losing heat.

• What’s the best way to seal window and door drafts?

  Use weather-stripping for doors and caulk around window frames. Insulated curtains and door sweeps can also help.

• Can a home inspection detect energy loss?

  Yes. Home inspectors use thermal imaging tools to identify where warm air escapes and cold air enters.

• How often should I check for drafts?

  Inspect your windows and doors at least once a year—preferably before winter—to maintain energy efficiency.

Stay Warm And Energy-Efficient With Paragon Property Inspections

Before the next cold front arrives, schedule a full home inspection to uncover hidden drafts and insulation problems. Small fixes today can save you hundreds in heating costs this winter.

📞 Call Paragon Property Inspections, LLC at (203) 213-4622

🌐 Visit: www.paragonpropertyinspectionsct.com