As you prepare for your annual air conditioner service over the next few months, take a second to consider breaking down the amount that you spend on heating and cooling throughout the year. Then, think about the last time you’ve taken a walk around and searched for leaky doors and windows. It’s something that almost all homes have to put up with, but there is a significant portion of money slipping between the cracks, going out the window – literally.
However, the majority of the cracks and leaks can be easily taken care of on your own, helping you save money year-round. Plus, it can help you boost the benefits of your annual air conditioner service too, helping you potentially retain more cool air while helping to boost energy efficiency and your comfort.
So where should you look for those irritating leaks?
The attic.
Attics are notorious 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 can be open, or uninsulated, meaning air can easily get out, leaving you with a less-than-comfortable home and greatly affecting 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 usually have vents that open in to the attic, which leaves the door open for cool air loss. Make sure your lights come previously sealed or add an airtight baffle to handle the problem on unsealed lights.
- Attic access doors usually aren’t thought of when you swap out 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 usually the key culprits for losing cool air, and rightfully so.
- Check to make sure the weatherstripping on all of your doors is in working order and isn’t cracked or torn. If it is, replace it.
- View the border 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 openings you uncover.
- If your home has a chimney, make sure any holes 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 awfully long, but if you take a little time to tackle the list 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 B&D Air Conditioning a call at 928-432-6018 or schedule an appointment online.