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 ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they should be, 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.
The most frequent leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to identify, but air leakage can also originate 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 look around your windows and doors. If they rattle or you can see light coming in around the frame, they’re leaking and likely wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to take care of the leak.
Next, search your home 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 two sides match up perfectly and there are no gaps
- Look for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to 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, hire a professional. Experts can complete a comprehensive energy assessment, including a blower door test that can help find major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how best to fix them for greater energy efficiency. Contact Rob's Albertan Service Experts in Edmonton for a professional energy assessment at 780-800-9047.