As you prepare for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, take a second to consider calculating the amount that you spend on heating and cooling annually. Then, think about the last time you’ve walked around and searched for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that nearly all homes have to battle with, but there is a large portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, almost all of the cracks and leaks can be easily handled on your own, helping you save money year-round. Plus, it can help you boost the bonuses 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 annoying leaks?
The attic.
Attics are notorious for allowing the most air out of your home, so look at these specific areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home may be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily leak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and considerably impacting your energy efficiency as well. If you would like to get the most out of your annual furnace service, make sure you fill these holes 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 already sealed or add an airtight baffle to solve the concern on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors normally 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 enter in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are normally the main culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to be sure 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 openings you notice.
- If your home has a chimney, make sure any gaps 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 tips 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 West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. a call at 614-879-9091.