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Are there spots in your home where the air is hotter and stickier than in other areas? Don’t just ignore that fact. This can be a symptom of air leaks, which can be a big problem if left unsealed.
You should always keep an eye out for air leaks around your windows and doors. Furthermore, you should inspect the following areas because leaks in these spots can be even bigger problems. Check for leaks around your:
Insulation: Moisture spots and concentrations of dirt on your insulation can indicate problematic leaks. Attic hatch and joints: Higher pressure forces hot air down from the attic and into your home.
Wiring outlets and holes: Holes in walls for electrical outlets and wiring are often not resealed after installation.
Plumbing vents: Plumbing openings often are not fit into the wall correctly, and small gaps remain.
Recessed lights and other soffits: Leaks occur when soffits are not sealed correctly upon installation.
Ductwork: Damaged ducts, loose vents, and poor connections allow air to escape.
Basement rim joints: Corners where your basement cement meets the foundation are a common weak spot.
Once you find the leaks, make sure that you address them quickly and correctly:
Plug the big holes first: Don’t ignore the smaller leaks. This is just a matter of prioritizing the biggest problems.
Remove damaged insulation: If there is a leak under the insulation, completely remove and fix the leak correctly. Then reinstall the new insulation.
Use the right caulk: The situation determines whether you should use silicone caulk or spray foam. However, don’t try to use caulk instead of making repairs. If you need to fix something, fix it. Don’t just cover it with caulk.
Have ducts assessed and sealed: Faulty ducts allow 20 percent or more of your air to escape. Have an HVAC (heating, ventilation
and air conditioning) expert assess your system because you may need new ductwork or even a system redesign if there are too many air leaks.
If you suspect air leaks or your energy bills are rising with no obvious explanation, contact Pipe Works Services We help residential and commercial customers in Morris, Union, Somerset, and Essex counties maximize their savings and their indoor comfort. Our goal is to help educate our customers in Chatham, NJ, and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
