Find Hidden Drafts in Your Home Using a Candle or Incense — Simple Tips from Austin Home Renovations
Here in Austin, our weather can swing from warm afternoons to chilly nights surprisingly fast. If your home feels drafty in certain rooms, or your heating system seems to be working harder than it should, you may have small air leaks letting cold air in. The good news is that finding these drafts doesn’t require any special tools — just a simple candle or an incense stick.
Why Drafts Are Worth Fixing
Drafts may seem minor, but they can:
Let out the warm air you’re paying to heat
Make certain rooms uncomfortable
Increase monthly energy costs
Even small leaks add up over time, so identifying and sealing them can make your home more efficient and comfortable.
How to Locate Drafts Using a Candle or Incense
What You’ll Need:
A candle or an incense stick
A lighter or match
A bit of patience
Steps:
Turn off fans, heaters, or anything that moves air so the flame or smoke won’t be influenced.
- Walk slowly around your home and hold the candle or smoke about an inch away from areas where drafts commonly appear:
- Window frames
- Exterior doors
- Baseboards
- Electrical outlets on exterior walls
- Attic access doors
- Dryer vent connections and plumbing penetrations
What to Notice:
If the flame flickers or smoke moves sideways, there is a leak in that area.
Easy and Affordable Fixes
Most small drafts can be sealed with simple, inexpensive materials:
| Problem Area | Quick Solution | Cost | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaps around windows/doors | Self-adhesive weatherstripping | Low | Easy |
| Space under exterior doors | Door sweep or fabric draft stopper | Low | Easy |
| Leaks around window trim | Clear caulk (indoor) or exterior caulk (outdoor) | Low–Medium | Moderate |
| Drafts at wall outlets on exterior walls | Foam outlet gaskets | Very low | Easy |
| Attic access panel leak | Foam insulation strips + weatherstripping | Low | Easy |
Tip: Older windows can benefit from a seasonal window insulation film kit — inexpensive and very effective during colder months.
When to Call a Professional
If drafts persist after sealing, or if you notice:
Cold spots inside walls
Visible gaps in insulation
Moisture, staining, or signs of pest intrusion
These may be signs of larger insulation or structural air barrier issues. At that point, it’s a good idea to bring in a professional for a thorough assessment.
Need Help? We’re Local and Happy to Assist.
At Austin Home Renovations, we help homeowners improve comfort, efficiency, and long-term value. Whether you need simple air sealing guidance or a more involved insulation upgrade, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation or ask a question — we’re always glad to offer friendly advice.
Photo by Rajat Verma on Unsplash
