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 sure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, 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 entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are relatively easy to find, but air leakage can also originate in less obvious spaces around your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to do your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to check your windows and doors. If they shake easily or you can see light coming in between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and probably 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
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the materials match up correctly and there are no gaps
- Check for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is correctly aligned with windows and chimneys
- Check 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 even more energy savings, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, including 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 greater energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Fort Lauderdale for a professional energy assessment at 954-736-4314.
