As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, take a moment to consider calculating the amount that you spend on heating and cooling annually. Then, think about the last time you’ve taken a walk around and searched for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that almost all homes have to deal with, but there is a large portion of money going between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, most of the cracks and leaks can be easily handled on your own, helping you save money all year. Plus, it can help you boost the bonuses of your annual furnace service too, helping you potentially preserve more heat while helping to improve energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you look for those pesky leaks?
The attic.
Attics are well-known for allowing the most air out of your home, so check these specific areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily leak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and greatly impacting your energy efficiency as well. If you want to get the most out of your annual furnace service, make sure you fill these gaps to better insulate your home.
- Recessed lights usually have vents that open in to the attic, which leaves the door open for heat loss. Make sure your lights come pre-sealed or add an airtight baffle to take care of the issue on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors normally aren’t thought of when you swap out or install weatherstripping to other windows or doors around your house but can let quite a bit of heat enter in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are normally the key culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to ensure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and is not cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- View the perimeter of all of your home’s windows, both in and outdoor, inspecting the caulking. It’s easy to use a caulking gun to plug any gaps you find.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any holes around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to inhibit air flow.
The variety of ways you can get the most out of your annual furnace service dollars is pretty long, but if you take a little time to tackle the list we’ve outlined, you can potentially make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these recommendations or are just looking to set up furnace service, give Air Alliance Team a call at 636-206-4250.