As you prep for your annual furnace maintenance this winter, take a second to consider adding up the amount that you spend on heating and cooling throughout the year. Then, think about the last time you’ve taken a walk around and looked for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that nearly all homes have to deal with, but there is a great portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, most of the cracks and leaks can be easily taken care of 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 increase energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you check for those annoying leaks?
The attic.
Attics are known for allowing the most air out of your home, so look at these certain areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily sneak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and considerably diminishing your energy efficiency as well. If you would like to get the most out of your annual furnace service, make sure you fill these holes 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 take care of the concern on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors usually 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 escape in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are typically 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 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 uncover.
- If your home has a chimney, ensure any openings around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to prevent 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 list we’ve outlined, you can possibly 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 Halverson Brothers Inc a call at 715-352-4052.