Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks

Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks

Doing as much as possible to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is a given. When you make sure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they have to, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. One way your home may be losing efficiency is through air leaks.

The most frequent leaks are from drafts coming through your windows or doors. These air leaks are fairly easy to find, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces around your home. Review the suggestions below to complete 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 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 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 around your home, take a look at the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.

Outside your house

• Inspect exterior corners, making sure the materials match up perfectly and there are no gaps
• See if there are 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

An at-home energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for even more 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 share information on how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact Wesley Wood Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning in West Chester for a professional energy assessment at 484-401-7577.