Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing everything you can to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a no brainer. 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. One of the ways your home could be losing significant efficiency is through air leaks around your home.
A large number of leaks are from drafts coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are relatively easy to spot, but air leakage can also originate in 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 clatter 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 fill in 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 throughout your home, check out the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the two sides match up exactly 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
- 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, complete with 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 Roland J. Down Service Experts in Albany for a professional energy assessment at 518-417-2938.