As you prepare for your annual furnace maintenance this year, take a minute to consider adding up the amount that you spend on heating and cooling throughout 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 battle 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 handled 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 increase energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you look for those pesky 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 may be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily get out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and greatly affecting your energy efficiency as well. If you are wanting to get the most out of your annual furnace service, make sure you fill these cavities to better insulate your home.
- Recessed lights usually 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 problem on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors typically 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 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 openings you uncover.
- 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 variety 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 recommendations we’ve outlined, you can potentially make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these pointers or are just looking to set up furnace service, give Central Heating & Plumbing a call at 724-401-1843.