Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing the necessary work to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a given. When you ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they have to, 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.
A large number of leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to find, but air leakage can also be found in less obvious spaces in your home. Review the suggestions below to conduct 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 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 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 around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect 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 aligned accurately with windows and chimneys
- Check for gaps where siding or bricks meet your foundation
Conducting your own energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for additional 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 share information on how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact Barlow Service Experts in the Wasatch Front region for a professional energy assessment at 801-436-8985.