# Make Sure Your Massachusetts Home Is Set With Proper Insulation > Using the fall months to verify that your insulation is adequate for the upcoming winter will help you cut energy bills and avoid serious problems the cold can create [![insulation](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/attic_insulation.gif)](http://shutterstock.com) Using the fall months to verify that your insulation is adequate for the upcoming winter will help you cut energy bills and avoid serious problems the cold can create. You can check the insulation levels in your home by checking the level in the attic, the walls and the basement ceiling, and adding more if it's necessary. [![insulation](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/attic_insulation.gif)](http://shutterstock.com) ## **Attic** The Department of Energy recommends at least 13 inches of batt or blown-in insulation in the attic - and 16 inches for the most protection from heat transfer. As you inspect the attic, look in the corners and around the attic vents to find places where the insulating products are thinner and could cause heat to radiate into the attic and [form ice dams](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/ice-dam-prevention-measures.html) on your roof after a snowfall. ## **Walls** The levels in your walls affect your home's comfort level, which you can check by taking off an electrical face plate and looking inside an exterior wall. For safety purposes, you should turn off the circuit breaker for that particular outlet. Another way to check the walls is to ask an energy auditor or HVAC contractor who uses thermographic equipment to measure the thermal differences along your exterior walls. This equipment shows temperature differences as distinct colors. The easiest way to improve the insulating value of your walls is to use [blown-in or expanding foam](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/home-insulation-compare-types.html), both of which a contractor can do for you. Increasing it will help avoid frozen pipes during very cold weather. ## **Basement** If your basement ceiling joists are visible, you'll see any insulating materials. If not, you might be able to check them by removing a ceiling light fixture. Batt insulating rolls can be stapled to the joists and they come in varying widths to tuck tightly between the joists. If you do add it to the basement ceiling, you might insulate any [exposed plumbing pipes](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/steps-to-avoid-burst-pipes.html), since the batts will block heat transfer from your first level to the basement. If you'd like more information on increasing the insulation in your home, contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html). We've provided outstanding HVAC services for the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts since 1928. 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Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. 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