Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing the necessary work 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 have to, 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 generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also be found in less obvious spaces throughout your home. Review 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 between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and likely wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to take care of 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 throughout your home, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the materials match up perfectly 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 even more energy savings, hire a professional. Experts can complete a comprehensive energy assessment, complete with a blower door test that can help find major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact Stallion Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning in Philadelphia for a professional energy assessment at 215-278-9690.