One of the fastest ways to reduce your energy savings is to ensure that your house is sealed against air leaks. Air leaks are expensive, primarily because they cause your HVAC system to work too hard. An overworked system can cause high utility bills or even a premature replacement of your HVAC system.

Preventative maintenance on your structure, plus twice-yearly HVAC maintenance from a certified Jewell Mechanical technician, can go a long way to increasing the life of your system.

Places where you should check for air leaks:

Attic: Start here, as most air loss is through this often-overlooked space.

Check where the roof and walls meet for cracks and holes, including behind any kneewalls. You may be able to feel air movement or see sunlight through these
Visually inspect insulation for dirty streaks, which can be a sign of air movement
Examine recessed lighting fixtures for a secure fit, and caulk if necessary
Look for sunlight/dirt streaks surrounding ventilation fixtures that cut through the roof and ceiling

Basement: Filling holes in basement walls will help close off the entrance of cool air, reducing your house’s chimney effect.

Rattle windows to check for movement. This is a sign of space
Check ventilation fixtures, plumbing, and wires through the foundation
Rim joists allow air and moisture to seep into the house around the foundation, so the best defense is a spray foam insulation

Exterior walls: Anywhere a hole has been punched in the wall is an opportunity for air leakage.

Fill spaces around dryer vents and ensure the vent is clear of blockages.
Inspect all electrical lines, plumbing, and cracks in brick or mortar.

Doors and windows: Check for how settling may have affected frames

Use caulk to fill cracks around window and door frames
Install storm windows over single-panes
Use weather stripping under loose doorways

Chimney: This is an open pathway for air, allowing both hot and cold outdoor air to enter your house.

Close the flue in the summer and any time the chimney is not in use
Use a chimney plug during the summer months

6 Ways to Fix Air Leaks in Your House

Fill gaps under ¼ inch wide with a high-quality, outdoor-rated silicone caulk
Change out single pane windows for high-efficiency double panes. Alternately, cover with storm windows or inexpensive plastic sheeting
Insulate your attic and basement with spray foam or fiberglass batting
Consider finishing the basement with sheetrock for an extra layer of protection
Use and maintain weather stripping on exterior doors
Close ¼ or larger holes and cracks in exterior walls with high-quality spray foam

If you’ve done whole-house checks and fixed major leaks, but your utility bill isn’t decreasing or your system is still working hard, it may be time for an HVAC replacement.

Upgrading to a new, Energy Star-certified system that is sized correctly to your space can reduce your heating and cooling bills immediately.

Jewell Mechanical also has several financing options available to help your family live in comfort.