Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a given. 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. Air leaks around your home are one of many ways your home may be losing efficiency.
A large number of leaks are from drafts coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to spot, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces around your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to complete your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to inspect your windows and doors. If they rattle or you can see light through spaces between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and undoubtedly wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to eliminate 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 in your home, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Check exterior corners, making sure the materials match up correctly and there are no gaps
- Look for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Check 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, which includes a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and share information on how best to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Roanoke for a professional energy assessment at 540-302-8645.