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

How can a lit incense stick help you find air leaks around a window?

Its smoke gets pushed by moving air at the leak.

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  1. It melts the window seal
  2. It sprays sealant on leaks
  3. Its smoke gets pushed toward or away from leaks ✔

Why: Hold a lit incense stick near the seams or sash. If the smoke is pushed one way or another, you most likely have a leak. Never use it near curtains or other flammable materials.

Huh, didn't know that: Before removing window trim, ENERGY STAR says to cut the paint where the trim meets the wall and jamb so it does not chip or tear.

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References

Answer: Its smoke gets pushed toward or away from leaks. Hold a lit incense stick near the seams or sash. If the smoke is pushed one way or another, you most likely have a leak. Never use it near curtains or other flammable materials.

  1. ENERGY STAR: Sealing Behind Window and Door Trim www.energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/sealing-window-door
    Light an incense stick and hold it next to the seams or sash of the window.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Test yourself in the game

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That's stuff everyone should know.