As you prep for your annual air conditioner service this season, take a minute to consider breaking down the amount that you spend on heating and cooling annually. Then, think about the last time you’ve walked around and searched for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that practically all homes have to put up with, but there is a large portion of money going between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, the majority of the cracks and leaks can be easily handled on your own, helping you save money all year. Plus, it can help you boost the benefits of your annual air conditioner service too, helping you potentially preserve more cool air while helping to increase energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you check for those pesky leaks?
The attic.
Attics are well-known for allowing the most air out of your home, so look at these particular areas while up in your attic:
- Stud cavities around your home could be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily get out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and significantly impacting your energy efficiency as well. If you would like to get the most out of your annual air conditioner service, make sure you fill these gaps to better insulate your home.
- Recessed lights normally have vents that open in to the attic, which leaves the door open for cool air loss. Make sure your lights come already sealed or add an airtight baffle to handle the issue on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors usually aren’t thought of when you replace or install weatherstripping to other windows or doors around your house but can let quite a bit of cool air get in to your attic.
All house openings.
Windows and doors are typically the key culprits for losing cool air, 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.
- View 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 gaps you uncover.
- If your home has a chimney, be sure any gaps around the flue or chimney itself are properly covered with aluminum flashing to prevent air flow.
The number of ways you can get the most out of your annual air conditioner service dollars is pretty long, but if you take a little time to tackle the recommendations we’ve outlined, you can probably make your home more efficient and more comfortable. If you have any questions about these pointers or are just looking to set up air conditioner service, give CNR Air Conditioning Inc a call at 239-241-5318 or schedule an appointment online.