Places to Check for Leaking Air Prior to Furnace Service in Your Abilene Home

As you get ready for your annual furnace maintenance this season, take a moment to consider calculating the amount that you spend on heating and cooling annually. Then, think about the last time you’ve walked 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 finding its way between the cracks, going out the window – literally.

However, the majority 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 benefits of your annual furnace service too, helping you potentially preserve more heat while helping to improve energy efficiency and your comfort.

So where should you check for those irritating leaks?

The attic.

Attics are well-known for allowing the most air out of your home, so look at these specific areas while up in your attic:

Stud cavities around your home may be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily sneak out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and significantly affecting your energy efficiency as well. If you want 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 solve the concern on unsealed lights.
Attic access doors typically 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 usually the main 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.
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 openings you notice.
If your home has a chimney, make sure any openings around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminium 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 possibly 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 Abilene Air-Tech Inc a call at (325) 692-5850.