Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a no brainer. When you make sure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, 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 find, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces throughout your home. Use 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 undoubtedly 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, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the edges match up exactly and there are no gaps
- Check for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Note 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 even more energy savings, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, including a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and share information on how best to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Strand Brothers Service Experts in Austin for a professional energy assessment at 512-592-3072 .