As you get ready for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, 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 searched for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that practically all homes have to put up with, but there is a significant portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, the majority of the cracks and leaks can be easily taken care of on your own, helping you save money year-round. Plus, it can help you increase the benefits 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 look for those irritating leaks?
The attic.
Attics are known for allowing the most air out of your home, so look at these certain 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 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 normally have vents that open in to the attic, which leaves the door open for heat loss. Make sure your lights come previously sealed or add an airtight baffle to solve the issue on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors typically aren’t thought of when you replace 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 usually the key culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to make sure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and is not 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 openings you find.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any holes around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to inhibit air flow.
The number 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 list we’ve outlined, you can possibly make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these recommendations or are just looking to set up furnace service, give Airmax Long Island Inc a call at 631-737-5566.