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How Can I Determine If I’m Allowing Air Into and Out of My Home?

Discover how to test the energy efficiency in your home.

Energy Efficiency Tests

We’re all striving for greater energy efficiency, especially in our homes. Though the primary goal might be to save money on our utility bills, there are other benefits, including being a better global citizen and having a more comfortable house. One way to lower your energy usage and your energy bills is by preventing a leaky house. Here’s how to tell if your house has sprung an air leak, undermining your energy efficiency:

The Dollar Bill Test

This is a pretty good test to check your doors to see if they are leaking air. Take a dollar bill and close it in the door. Once the door is shut, pull the dollar bill out. If it slides right out, your door is leaking air and you’ll have energy loss. Repairing or replacing the caulking or weather stripping can help seal the door to prevent air loss.

Visual Inspection

One way to check your home for cracks and leaks is with a simple visual inspection. Walk around your home, inside and out, and look for cracks, gaps, and air leaks. Here are some things to check:

  • Outlets and switch plates
  • Window frames
  • Around doors
  • Fireplaces
  • Window or wall air conditioning units
  • Dryer vents
  • Where cables and electrical come into the house
  • Exterior corners
  • Exterior siding
  • Along the foundation where it meets the house
  • Water faucets
  • Chimneys

Energy Assessment

Another method for locating possible air leaks in your home, and possibly the most effective method, is with a professional energy assessment. Using building pressurization tests, a blower door test, and inspection of your insulation and venting, an HVAC technician can identify air leaks that could be compromising the efficiency of your home.

For an assessment and a report on the actual energy efficiency of your home, schedule an appointment with H.H. Hovey Heating and Cooling.



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