Finding Air Leaks in Your Home
As more and more homeowners get savvy about saving money on their heating and cooling bills, they’ve been realizing that air leaking out of their houses through cracks and holes is costing them money each month. How can you find these leaks, and what should you do to seal them? Read on to find out.
Make a Visual Inspection
Many leaks can be found through a simple visual inspection of your home’s inside and outside. Be on the lookout for any cracks, gaps, or openings where air could be getting in or out. Check all the corners of your home’s exterior as well as the spaces between your house’s siding and any frames of windows or doors.
Indoors, you’ll want to look for any potential airflow around outlets, baseboards, vents, and fans. Don’t forget to check where your cable and phone lines come in since air is likely to leak out of these spots. If you do find any openings, fill them up with caulk or spray foam right away. The sooner you seal them, the more you can save on your energy bill.
Perform the Candle Test
For smaller leaks that are harder to find visually, you can use a small candle to check for unexpected air movement. First, make sure to turn off your heating and cooling system as well as any exhaust fans in your home. Walk around with your candle lit and check near any areas you suspect air may be leaking out. Some places to check are electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, and baseboards. If the candle flame flickers or blows around, then you’ll have found a leak in that area.
Don’t Hesitate to Call a Professional
Our professional heating and cooling experts here at HB McClure Company can help you to find hidden leaks you may not notice on your own. We have specialized equipment that can easily locate them, and we have years of experience helping our customers in the Harrisburg area secure their homes.
At HB McClure Company, we value your comfort and will strive to help you save money on your energy bill. Give us a call today, and let us help you keep your HVAC equipment running at peak efficiency through our expert maintenance, repair, and installation services.