Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a no brainer. When you 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 coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are fairly easy to find, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces around your home. Use 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 coming in around the frame, they’re leaking and likely wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to fill in the leak.
Next, search your home 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 exactly and there are no gaps
- Check for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Note 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, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, including 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 Ocala for a professional energy assessment at 352-414-4006.