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 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.
The most common leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces in your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to do your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to inspect your windows and doors. If they clatter or you can see light coming in around the frame, they’re leaking and undoubtedly wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to fill in the leak.
Next, walk through your home to look 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 in 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 perfectly and there are no gaps
- Look for 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
A DIY energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for greater energy savings, hire a professional. Experts can complete 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 maximum energy efficiency. Contact Matz-Rightway in Long Island for a professional energy assessment at 631-406-9220.