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 practically all homes have to deal with, but there is a significant portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, almost all of the cracks and leaks can be easily taken care of on your own, helping you save money throughout the year. Plus, it can help you boost the benefits of your annual furnace service too, helping you potentially hold on to more heat while helping to improve energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you check for those annoying leaks?
The attic.
Attics are notorious for allowing the most air out of your home, so view these certain areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily get out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and considerably impacting your energy efficiency as well. If you want 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 handle the concern on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors typically 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 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 is not cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- Check the perimeter 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 holes you find.
- If your home has a chimney, ensure any holes around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to block air flow.
The number of ways you can get the most out of your annual furnace service dollars is pretty 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 tips or are just looking to set up furnace service, give Jett's Heating & Air Inc. a call at 815-410-1128.