SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-a-seal-backdraft

Why does ENERGY STAR suggest a professional check before sealing your home tightly?

Sealing can cause combustion appliances to backdraft, like water heaters.

Start playing free

  1. Sealing voids the roof warranty
  2. Sealing can cause combustion appliances to backdraft ✔
  3. Sealing makes windows hard to open

Why: Sealing a home or ducts can cause combustion appliances like water heaters to backdraft, creating unsafe indoor conditions. A tight home may also trap radon, carbon monoxide and other pollutants.

Huh, didn't know that: A tight home may need extra mechanical ventilation to keep air safe.

The dad joke
How do campers react to building a campfire? They always want s'more.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Sealing can cause combustion appliances to backdraft. Sealing a home or ducts can cause combustion appliances like water heaters to backdraft, creating unsafe indoor conditions. A tight home may also trap radon, carbon monoxide and other pollutants.

  1. ENERGY STAR: Identify the Problems You Want to Fix www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/identify-problems-you-want-fix
    sealing your home or ductwork can cause combustion appliances like water heaters to backdraft
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Home & YardIn ENERGY STAR's paper test, a sheet shut in your window slides back and forth easily. What does that mean?Home & YardHow can a lit incense stick help you find air leaks around a window?Home & YardIn the attic, what does EPA recommend you do first?

That's stuff everyone should know.