Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing the necessary work to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is an easy decision. When you make sure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than necessary, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. One way your home may be losing efficiency is through air leaks.
The most frequent leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to spot, but air leakage can also originate in less obvious spaces around 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 around 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, 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, check out the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Check exterior corners, making sure the materials match up correctly and there are no gaps
- Check for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is correctly aligned 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 even more energy savings, hire a professional. Experts can complete a comprehensive energy assessment, which includes a blower door test that can help find major sources of energy loss in your home, and share information on how best to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Freschi Service Experts in Concord for a professional energy assessment at 925-384-1303.