Have you noticed a change in your monthly energy bill? You may not use quite as much fuel or electricity every month, but you can’t figure out why. Maybe you’ve even noticed higher prices in your area that you didn’t expect but can’t explain.
You could have air leaks in your home.
An air leaking in your home can cause increases in your monthly hydro bill, as well as your heating bill in the colder months. If you notice that your monthly bills are inconsistent, then you probably have an air leak.
So how do you know if your home has an air leak? Here’s what you need to look for.
How to Tell if There is Air Leaking Into Your Home?
If you have high energy bills, noticeable drafts, or rooms in your home that are difficult to heat or cool, you may have air leaks. Although your home may have some air leaks, you may not be aware of them. Here are ways to know if you have air leaks in your home.
Check for Cracks and Gaps
One of the simplest ways to check for cracks that may be causing air leaking in your home is to do a visual inspection. Look for any cracks or gaps in the walls, floors, ceilings, and around doors and windows.
If you see any cracks, you can seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to help improve the energy efficiency of your home. Read more on air sealing to know how it can help you with air leaks.
Another way to check for air leaks is to hold a piece of paper up to the suspect area. If the paper flutters, it is likely that cold air is coming in. Once you have identified any areas where the air is leaking, you can take steps to seal them and improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Inspect Your Windows and Doors
One of the most common places for air leaks is around your windows and doors. If you feel a draft coming from either, it’s likely that your windows are leaking air in. Inspect the caulking and weather stripping around your doors and windows to see if there are any gaps.
If you suspect you have an air leak, the best course of action is to contact a professional to come and take a look and find air leaks in your home. They can help you identify the source of the leak and recommend the best way to fix it.
Get a Professional Energy Audit
If you are not sure whether or not you have air leaks in your home, the best way to find out is to get a professional energy audit. An energy audit will help identify where your home is losing energy and what improvements can be made to improve its energy efficiency.
Many utility companies offer free or discounted energy audits to their customers. Once you have the results of your energy audit, you can determine whether or not you need to seal any air leaks in your home.
Making Your Home Airtight
If you feel like your home is not as energy-efficient as it could be, it may be time to check for air leaking into your home. Luckily, checking for and sealing air leaks is a relatively easy and affordable DIY project. By following the tips in this article, you can make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient
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