As you get ready for your annual furnace maintenance this year, 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 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, most 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 retain more heat while helping to boost energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you check for those annoying 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 can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily leak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and significantly affecting 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 pre-sealed or add an airtight baffle to handle the problem on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors usually 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 usually the key culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to ensure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and isn’t cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- View 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 gaps you notice.
- If your home has a chimney, make sure any holes around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to prevent air flow.
The host of ways you can get the most out of your annual furnace service dollars is very long, but if you take a little time to tackle the list we’ve outlined, you can potentially 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 Gilray Heating and Cooling a call at 715-301-0727.