As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this season, take a minute to consider calculating the amount that you spend on heating and cooling annually. Then, think about the last time you’ve walked around and checked for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that almost all homes have to deal with, but there is a large portion of money finding its way between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, almost all of the cracks and leaks can be easily handled on your own, helping you save money all year. Plus, it can help you increase the perks 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 search for those irritating leaks?
The attic.
Attics are well-known for allowing the most air out of your home, so view these certain areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily sneak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and greatly diminishing your energy efficiency as well. If you would like 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 handle the issue on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors usually aren’t thought of when you change 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 typically the chief culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to be sure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and isn’t cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- Look at the edge 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 openings you notice.
- If your home has a chimney, ensure 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 awfully long, but if you take a little time to tackle the tips we’ve outlined, you can probably make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these pointers or are just looking to set up furnace service, give US Air Heating and Cooling a call at 803-220-0761.