Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is an easy decision. When you make an effort to ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they have to, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. One way your home may be losing efficiency is through air leaks.
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 originate in less obvious spaces around your home. Review the suggestions below to complete 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 through spaces between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and probably wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to take care of 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 throughout your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the materials match up perfectly 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
- 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 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 Niagara Home Services by Enercare in the Niagara Region for a professional energy assessment at 289-273-2229.