How can a homeowner identify poor insulation?

A homeowner can identify poor insulation primarily by monitoring drafts and cold spots within their home. Drafts indicate areas where outside air is infiltrating, often due to inadequate insulation or gaps in sealing. Cold spots, on the other hand, are areas that feel noticeably cooler than others, which can signal insufficient insulation that fails to keep conditioned air inside.

Both drafts and cold spots can make it challenging to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the home, leading to increased energy costs as the heating system works harder. This hands-on observation is a practical and effective method for homeowners to assess their insulation performance.

While checking for rust on metal components might indicate moisture problems, it does not directly relate to insulation effectiveness. Observing wall color won’t provide any insight into insulation quality, and inspecting the HVAC system is more focused on system performance rather than insulation efficiency.