Detecting Drafts with a Candle or Incense Stick

Harnessing the Power of Candlelight

Drafts can be elusive, particularly in your garden cabin, but with a simple candle or incense stick, you can uncover hidden air leaks in your home. In this guide, we’ll explore the technique of using a candle or incense stick to detect drafts, helping you pinpoint areas that require sealing for improved energy efficiency and comfort.

1. Preparing Your Tools

Before you begin, gather your materials: a candle or incense stick, a lighter or matches, and a draft-prone area to test. Choose a calm day when there’s minimal air movement to ensure accurate results.

2. Lighting the Candle or Incense Stick

With your tools in hand, light the candle or incense stick using a lighter or matches. Hold it steady, ensuring the flame or smoke remains vertical and unaffected by external air currents.

3. Moving Along Potential Draft Pathways

Slowly move the candle or incense stick along potential draft pathways, such as window frames, door jambs, baseboards, and electrical outlets. Observe the flame or smoke closely for any signs of movement or disturbance.

4. Identifying Air Movement

If the flame flickers or wavers, or if the smoke from the incense stick wavers or changes direction, it indicates the presence of a draft. Note the location and intensity of the draft to prioritise sealing efforts.

5. Sealing Drafty Areas

Once you’ve identified drafty areas, take steps to seal them and prevent air leaks. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows and doors. Install draft excluders or door sweeps at the base of doors. Seal electrical outlets and switches with foam gaskets.

6. Repeating the Process

After sealing drafty areas, repeat the process with the candle or incense stick to confirm that the drafts have been eliminated. If you still detect air movement, reassess and reinforce your sealing efforts as needed.

7. Enjoying Improved Energy Efficiency

By detecting and sealing drafts in your home, you’ll enjoy improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills. Your home will feel more comfortable year-round, with fewer cold spots and temperature fluctuations.

Conclusion: Uncovering Hidden Air Leaks

In conclusion, using a candle or incense stick to detect drafts is a simple yet effective technique for uncovering hidden air leaks in your garden cabin. By carefully observing the flame or smoke, you can pinpoint areas that require sealing and improve energy efficiency and comfort. With regular maintenance and sealing efforts, you’ll create a more energy-efficient home that’s free from drafts and air leaks.