Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing the necessary work to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a no brainer. When you make an effort to ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than necessary, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. One of the ways your home could be losing significant efficiency is through air leaks around your home.
The most frequent leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to find, but air leakage can also be found in less obvious spaces throughout your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to do your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to look around your windows and doors. If they rattle or you can see light coming in around the frame, they’re leaking and probably wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to fill in the leak.
Next, walk through your home to look for cracks and gaps in the following areas:
- Electrical outlets and light switches
- Electrical and gas service entrances
- Baseboards
- Attic doors or hatches
- Fireplaces
- Wall and window air conditioning units
- Cable and phone lines
- Vents and fans
If you find air leaks around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the edges match up perfectly and there are no gaps
- See if there are cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Search for gaps where siding or bricks meet your foundation
An at-home energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for additional energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do a comprehensive energy assessment, including a blower door test that can help detect major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Girard for a professional energy assessment at 330-269-7235.