As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this season, take a minute to consider breaking down the amount that you spend on heating and cooling during the year. Then, think about the last time you’ve gone around and checked for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that nearly all homes have to deal with, but there is a great portion of money finding its way between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, most of the cracks and leaks can be easily handled on your own, helping you save money throughout the year. Plus, it can help you increase the perks 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 pesky leaks?
The attic.
Attics are notorious for allowing the most air out of your home, so check these specific 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 greatly diminishing your energy efficiency as well. If you are wanting 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 previously sealed or add an airtight baffle to solve the issue 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 get in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are typically 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 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 openings you notice.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any openings around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to inhibit air flow.
The host 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 recommendations 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 Forster Heating a call at 530-885-8081.