A person holding a candle
Home - Garden
Test Your Home For Drafts With This Genius Candle Trick
By KELLY CATLIN
If you notice a spike in utility bills or feel a chill in a specific room, check your windows and doors for leaks and drafts using this easy candle trick.
Hold a lit candle or match before a window or door, avoiding curtains and blinds. If you notice that the flame flickers or goes out entirely, odds are you have a draft.
You can then get professional help or make repairs yourself. Start by locking all drafty windows and doors, then apply foam, felt, "V" strip, or tubular weather stripping.
For a quick fix, you can also use door draft blockers, while narrow cracks or gaps can be sealed with a latex caulk. Alternatively, you can use thermal insulated curtains.