Air conditioning and heating systems account for over half of the energy use in an average U.S. home, which makes it the biggest energy expense for most homes. Warm air leaking into your home during the summer months and out of your home during the winter season can result in your HVAC systems overworking and essentially wasting your money on increased energy bills.
Air often escapes from the following areas in your home:
- Walls, floors, ceilings – 31%
- Ducts – 15%
- Fireplace – 14%
- Plumbing penetrations – 13%
- Doors – 11%
- Windows – 10%
- Fans and vents – 4%
- Electrical outlets – 2%
Fortunately, a licensed and trained HVAC technician can conduct a home inspection to determine whether your home is leaking air and make the necessary recommendations to resolve the issue. However, if you would like to do it on your own, you can use an incense stick to locate leaks.
Just walk throughout your home with an incense stick, checking doors, windows, outlets, and other places where air can possible leak through. If the smoke begins to blow sideways, it is a telltale sign that a leak is evident. Weatherstripping, caulking or perhaps spray foam can seal these leaks and keep your home comfortable all year long.
In addition, having the proper amount of insulation in your home can make your HVAC systems run more sufficiently and for shorter periods of time. Proper insulation can save you money on your utility bills and maintain proper circulation of air throughout your home.
Contact our Virginia HVAC technician at Donmar Company Heating & Cooling to inspect your home for air leaks today.