It takes a lot of energy to heat and cool your home. Research shows that heating and cooling accounts for more than half of energy use in most U.S. homes. However, in the state of Texas, when the summers can get brutal, cooling costs can be even more costly. This is why it is so important that before that hot summer weather gets here, you check for air leaks in your home so your AC unit can be as efficient as possible.
Why are Air Leaks so Important?
Air leaks are when warm air leaks into the home during the summer months. When this warm air leaks in, your energy dollars can leak out. When your home is optimized, it will not only help keep your space cool and comfortable, but it will help with energy costs as well. You can lose up to 25% of your home’s heat through small cracks and holes throughout your home. The solution is to make sure that the home is properly sealed and insulated. When you do this, it can lower your total energy use in the home.
So, How Do You Check for Air Leaks Before Summer?
If you have large holes and cracks in the home, you may be able to notice and spot the cracks and holes around the home. The most common way to do this is to use an incense stick. Pay attention to windows, doors, and outlets in the home. If you are burning the incense and the smoke starts to blow sideways, then chances are you have a leak.
To get better results, you should call an HVAC professional to do a full home inspection where they can find even the smallest of holes or look to your attack or basement to seal off any cracks that may be in the space.
When you do find air leaks in the home, there are a few different cost-effective solutions that can help you eliminate these leaks. Caulking, weather stripping, and using spray foam can help seal up leaks so that your air conditioner can get to work and keep you home cool even in that hot Texas summer heat.
If you have more questions about what you can do to get your house ready for summer, including checking for air leaks, contact the experts here at Texas Pride Heating & Air. We can make certain that your home will stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
