As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this year, take a second to consider calculating the amount that you spend on heating and cooling throughout the year. Then, think about the last time you’ve walked around and looked for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that practically all homes have to deal with, but there is a large portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, the majority of the cracks and leaks can be easily sealed 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 hold on to 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 check these particular areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home could be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily leak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and significantly diminishing 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 handle the issue on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors typically 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 escape in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are typically the key culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to ensure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and hasn’t been cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- View the border 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 holes you find.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any gaps 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 recommendations 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 Knoechel Heating Company a call at 724-425-5852.