Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is an easy decision. When you ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than necessary, 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 frequent leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to spot, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces in 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 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 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 around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Check exterior corners, making sure the edges match up perfectly 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
An at-home energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for additional energy savings, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, which includes 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 Comfort Masters Service Experts in Wheeling for a professional energy assessment at 847-250-6729.