Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a given. When you make sure 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 frequent leaks are from drafts coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to spot, but air leakage can also be found in less obvious spaces in 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 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 in your home, check out the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the two sides 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
An at-home 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, complete with a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Livermore for a professional energy assessment at 925-364-5427.
