Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is an easy decision. When you make an effort to ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. One way your home may be losing efficiency is through air leaks.
The most frequent leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces around your home. Review the suggestions below to conduct your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to inspect your windows and doors. If they shake easily 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 take care of the leak.
Next, walk around looking 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 throughout your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Check exterior corners, making sure the two sides match up correctly and there are no gaps
- See if there are cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is aligned accurately with windows and chimneys
- Search for gaps where siding or bricks meet your foundation
Conducting your own energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for greater energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do a comprehensive energy assessment, which includes a blower door test that can help detect major sources of energy loss in your home, and share information on how best to fix them for maximum energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in North America for a professional energy assessment at 866-397-3787.