Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks

Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks

Doing everything you can 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 way your home may be losing efficiency is through air leaks.

A large number of leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are relatively easy to spot, but air leakage can also originate in less obvious spaces around your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to conduct 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 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 throughout your home, use the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.

Outside your house

• Check exterior corners, making sure the two sides match up perfectly and there are no gaps
• Look for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
• Make sure siding is correctly aligned with windows and chimneys
• Note 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 greater energy savings, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, which includes 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 Edmonton for a professional energy assessment at 587-404-0790.