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 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 complete your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to look around your windows and doors. If they clatter or you can see light through spaces 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 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 in your home, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the materials match up exactly 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
- Search 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 additional energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do a comprehensive energy assessment, complete with a blower door test that can help find major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Broad Ripple Service Experts in Indianapolis for a professional energy assessment at 317-527-0271.