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Energy Effi ciency Energy Effi ciency for the Cat?


Close that door! Were you raised in a barn? "Meow?" "Ruff . Ruff ." You've weather-stripped your doors and windows, caulked around electric outlets and other wall


penetrations, and had your heating system checked by a pro; but, how do you get that dog or cat to close the door securely behind them? It's a losing battle, but there is no reason to lose expensive, heated air through the pet door. Now that manufacturers have started making energy-effi cient models, Fido and Fluff y can come and go without wasting electricity. Here are a few features to consider when replacing your energy-wasting pet door with a more effi cient model:


 Look for an Energy Star-rated model. T ese are guaranteed to be substantially more energy effi cient than other pet doors.


 If you buy a wood door, insist on a model with a core interior of insulating material like polyurethane foam or fi berglass.


 If you prefer a glass door, buy one with two panes of coated glass. Make sure the space between the panes is fi lled with non-toxic gas for an extra layer of insulation.


 Some manufacturers make a fl ap-style door with an extra fl ap and insulation to keep outdoor air from getting into the house—except when Rover pushes it open. Still, a sliding door or another model made from a rigid material is more secure and effi cient.


 Choose a door with magnetic stripping so it fi ts into the door opening as snugly as possible.


 For security, fi nd a door you can lock at night to keep your pet(s) indoors and unwanted ani- mals out of the house.


 T e bigger the door, the more air gets displaced when your dog or cat opens it. Choose a door that is just the right size for your pet to comfortably scoot through. No need to buy a bigger door than your largest pet needs.


 Avoid tinkering with your new door once it is installed. Energy Star claims are based on how the door performs when it is used according to manufacturer’s instructions. Altering the door could make it less effi cient.


10


January 2014


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