Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing the necessary work to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a no brainer. When you ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. Air leaks around your home are one of many ways your home may be losing efficiency.
The most common leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces around your home. Review the suggestions below to do your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to check your windows and doors. If they rattle 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, 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 around your home, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the two sides match up perfectly and there are no gaps
- Look for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to 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 additional energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do a comprehensive energy assessment, complete with 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 greater energy efficiency. Contact Falso Service Experts in East Syracuse for a professional energy assessment at 315-313-6531.