As you get ready for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, take a moment to consider adding up the amount that you spend on heating and cooling during the year. Then, think about the last time you’ve gone around and looked for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that almost all homes have to put up with, but there is a great 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 year-round. Plus, it can help you increase the perks of your annual furnace service too, helping you potentially retain more heat while helping to improve energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you look for those pesky leaks?
The attic.
Attics are notorious for allowing the most air out of your home, so view these particular areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home could be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily sneak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and greatly affecting 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 already sealed or add an airtight baffle to handle the concern 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 get in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are normally the key 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 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 gaps you uncover.
- If your home has a chimney, make sure any openings 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 recommendations we’ve outlined, you can potentially make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these tips or are just looking to set up furnace service, give Luikart Heating & Cooling a call at 740-200-5591.