Are Air Leaks Costing You Money?

As the summer heat becomes more and more intense, homeowners have to turn to their air conditioners and HVAC units to stay comfortable. The larger the home, the more air you need to cool, and this requires electricity, which costs money. Unfortunately, many homeowners are just throwing away their money in an attempt to cool their property because of air leaks that are allowing the cooled air to escape outside. Luckily, air leaks can be professionally sealed to stop this problem.

Does your home have air leaks?

The first step in fixing your air leak problem is identifying if you have a problem. Is your air conditioner constantly running? Is your energy bill higher than usual? These are the two biggest signs of having air leaks. You may also experience drafts or spots in your home that are drastically different in temperature. 

It is also important to consider the history of your home. Older homes are more likely to have air leaks. This is often from shifting foundations and older, less precise construction methods. Sometimes, there are visible gaps where walls meet each other and where the wall meets the floors or ceiling.

Newer homes that have recently gone under some type of construction can also be left with air leaks. Remodeling and home additions don’t always perfectly seal every point. Storm damage and roof leaks will disrupt insulation and woodwork. If your property has gone through any of this, consider a home inspection to determine your home’s condition.

Where are air leaks most common in your home?

Air leaks are commonly found throughout the construction of a building. It is impossible to build a home without any of the features that coincide with air leaks. The most obvious culprits are doors, windows, and the joists of your home but there are several spots that are easy to forget.

• Fireplaces

• Attic Vents

• Attic Doors

• Electrical Outlets

• Cable & Electrical Wire Entry Points

• Pipes & Plumbing Entry Points

Take the time to examine your home and property. Finding air leaks and sealing them will help you stay comfortable and save you money. If you are unsure if you have air leaks, a specialist can help determine the condition of your home.