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 they have to, 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 common leaks are from drafts entering through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally 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 inspect your windows and doors. If they rattle or you can see light through spaces between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and likely wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to fill in 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, 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
• Check 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

Conducting your own energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for greater energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do a comprehensive energy assessment, including a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and let you know how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact BW/Cook Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in Elkhart for a professional energy assessment at 574-218-6404.