It has been estimated that up to 60-percent of the heat loss in a home is caused by gaps in and around windows, doors, chimneys, vent pipes and other places. PROJECT DRAFTBUSTERS was conceived to help Dexter residents lower their winter fuel bills by helping them identify where warm air is escaping out and cold air is coming into their house. The project involves having a certified home energy auditor temporarily installing a blower door in the front door of your home. The blower door consists of a large fan in an airtight, adjustable frame. As the fan sucks the air out of your house, it is easy to feel outside air coming in through places you can then seal with caulk, weatherstripping, tape, plastic etc.

The Dexter Energy Committee recently received a grant from United Way to help pay for part of this project. There is no fee to participants for the blower test which normally costs $100-$150. The project is limited to Dexter residents, regardless of income. Donations are needed to help complete the funding for the project. Donations can be mailed to: Town of Dexter, Weatherization Fund, 23 Main St., Dexter, ME 04930.

Participation in this program is limited and interested homeowners or renters of single family homes are encouraged to make an appointment as soon as possible. For more information or to set up an appointment, contact Dexter Energy Committee member, Tammy Lockhart: 1-207-270-1324 or email tammylockhart@gmail.com