As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, take a minute 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 practically all homes have to battle with, but there is a significant portion of money finding its way 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 increase the perks of your annual furnace service too, helping you potentially preserve more heat while helping to boost energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you search for those annoying leaks?
The attic.
Attics are well-known 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 significantly impacting 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 typically 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 take care of the concern on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors normally 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 get in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are normally the chief culprits for lost heat, and rightfully so.
- Check to be sure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and isn’t cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- Look at 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 holes you notice.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any gaps around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to prevent air flow.
The number of ways you can get the most out of your annual furnace service dollars is very long, but if you take a little time to tackle the recommendations we’ve outlined, you can possibly 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 Total Comfort a call at 201-268-5663.