Air leaks throughout your home can have a detrimental effect on your overall energy efficiency. If conditioned air is leaking outside and outside air is seeping in, your air system has to work harder and longer than necessary to maintain your desired temperature. By fixing these problem areas, you can reduce your energy costs and extend the longevity of your HVAC system.

The basement is a common place for many different kinds of leaks. Rim joists – where the wood framing meets the foundation – are a common place for leaks to occur. You may not be able to see them, but it is still wise to caulk around this area. Any holes that lead from the basement to your home for things such as wiring or or drain pipes should also be sealed. Caulk is best for gaps 1/4 inch or smaller while spray foam should be used from 1/4 inch to 3 inch gaps.

Your attic is another common area for large air leaks. Focus on plugging the bigger holes will generate more savings than plugging the smaller ones. Common spots leaks will occur include where walls meet the attic floor and around the attic’s kneewalls.

Your HVAC specialist can perform a number of tests that will help them determine where you may have air leaks. Here are a few common spots they are found:

• Behind kneewalls
• Recessed lighting
• Basement rim joists
• Attic hatch
• Wiring holes
• Plumbing vents
• Windows and doors
• Open soffits
• Furnace flues

To get in touch with a professional HVAC contractor who can help you find and stop air leaks that are lowering your home’s energy efficiency and raising your energy costs, contact Summers Plumbing Heating & Coolingtoday. We have proudly served residents in central Indiana for 42 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about air sealing and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Summers Plumbing, Heating & Cooling services Central Indiana including Hancock, Hamilton, Madison and Northern Marion. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!