cold spot

How to find cold spots in your house

house Admin Mar 8, 2025

How to Find Cold Spots in Your House (And Why Clogged Gutters Could Be the Culprit)

Cold spots in your home can be more than just a nuisance—they can signal underlying issues that affect your comfort, energy efficiency, and even your home’s structural integrity. Whether you’re noticing a chilly corner in your living room or a drafty window, identifying and addressing cold spots is essential for maintaining a cozy and energy-efficient home. In this article, we’ll explore how to find cold spots in your house and explain why clogged gutters could be contributing to the problem.

What Are Cold Spots?

Cold spots are areas in your home that feel noticeably colder than the rest of the space. They can occur due to poor insulation, air leaks, or even external factors like clogged gutters. These chilly areas not only make your home less comfortable but can also lead to higher energy bills as your heating system works harder to compensate.

How to Find Cold Spots in Your House

1. Use Your Hands

  • Walk around your home and feel for temperature differences along walls, windows, and doors.
  • Pay attention to areas near exterior walls, corners, and ceilings, as these are common spots for cold air to seep in.

2. Use a Thermal Leak Detector

  • Invest in an infrared thermometer or a thermal imaging camera to detect temperature variations.
  • These tools can visually show you where cold air is entering your home, making it easier to pinpoint problem areas.

3. Check for Drafts

  • Hold a lit candle or incense stick near windows, doors, and electrical outlets. If the flame flickers or the smoke wavers, you’ve found a draft.
  • Drafts are a common cause of cold spots and often indicate gaps or cracks that need sealing.

4. Inspect Your Insulation

  • Poor insulation in walls, attics, or crawl spaces can lead to cold spots.
  • Check for thin or missing insulation, especially in older homes.

5. Monitor Humidity Levels

  • High humidity can make cold spots feel even chillier. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels and consider using a dehumidifier if necessary.

Why Clogged Gutters Can Cause Cold Spots

You might be wondering how clogged gutters could possibly lead to cold spots in your home. Here’s the connection:

  1. Water Damage and Dampness:

    • Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your home’s walls or foundation.
    • This moisture can lead to dampness, which makes affected areas feel colder and can even promote mold growth.

  2. Compromised Insulation:

    • When water infiltrates your walls or attic, it can damage insulation, reducing its effectiveness.
    • Wet insulation loses its ability to retain heat, creating cold spots in your home.

  3. Structural Issues:

    • Prolonged water damage from clogged gutters can weaken your home’s structure, leading to gaps or cracks that allow cold air to enter. If you have clogged gutters, call experts such as Cleanway who provide gutter cleaning services.

How to Fix Cold Spots

1. Seal Air Leaks

  • Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps around windows, doors, and electrical outlets.
  • Consider adding door sweeps to exterior doors to block drafts.

2. Improve Insulation

  • Add insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces to prevent heat loss.
  • Use insulating curtains or window films to keep cold air out.

3. Clean Your Gutters

  • Regularly clean your gutters to prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage.
  • Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning.

4. Repair Water Damage

  • If you suspect water damage, inspect your walls, ceilings, and foundation for signs of moisture.
  • Address any leaks or damage promptly to prevent further issues.

5. Upgrade Your Heating System

  • Ensure your heating system is functioning efficiently and consider adding zone heating to target cold spots.

Preventing Cold Spots in the Future

  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Keep your gutters clean and your home well-maintained to prevent issues that lead to cold spots.
  • Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Upgrade to energy-efficient windows, doors, and insulation to keep your home warm and comfortable.
  • Monitor Your Home’s Temperature: Use a smart thermostat to track temperature variations and identify problem areas.

Cold spots in your home can be a sign of underlying issues, from poor insulation to clogged gutters. By identifying and addressing these problem areas, you can improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and overall health. Don’t overlook the role of gutters in maintaining a warm and dry home—regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in preventing cold spots and other related issues.