Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing everything you can to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a given. When you ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, 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 that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces in your home. Review the suggestions below to conduct your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to check 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 throughout your home, check out the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Inspect exterior corners, making sure the materials match up correctly and there are no gaps
- Look for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is aligned accurately 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 additional energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do 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 maximum energy efficiency. Contact Gordon's Service Experts in Oklahoma City for a professional energy assessment at 405-432-2197.