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 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 frequent leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are fairly easy to find, but air leakage can also originate in less obvious spaces around your home. Review the suggestions below to do 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 coming in 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 eliminate 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 around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Examine exterior corners, making sure the edges match up correctly and there are no gaps
- See if there are cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Check 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 greater energy savings, bring in a professional. Experts can do 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 to fix them for maximum energy efficiency. Contact Norrell Service Experts in Birmingham for a professional energy assessment at 205-267-0023.