Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing everything you can 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 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 common leaks are from drafts coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are relatively easy to spot, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces in your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to complete your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to look around your windows and doors. If they shake easily 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 eliminate 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 around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the materials match up exactly and there are no gaps
- Check for 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
A DIY 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, including a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Denver for a professional energy assessment at 303-647-5853.