Air Sealing
How Does the Air Escape?
Air enters and leaves your home through every hole, nook, and cranny. The largest source of air exchange, about one-third, comes in and out through openings in your ceilings, walls, and floors. Other areas include ducts, fireplace, plumbing penetrations, windows, doors, fans, and even electric outlets and light switches!
Some exchange of air is important for your indoor air quality to be at a healthy level. However, many homes may not be "tight" enough - meaning you can't control the flow of that air on your terms. Warm air leaking into your home during the summer and out of your home during the winter can waste a lot of your energy dollars! Plus, unwanted air can cause cold drafts or hot spots, making you and your family uncomfortable year round.
During your Home Energy Physical™ your MD will identify what your overall, whole-house air exchange rate is and how that compares to Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® recommended levels. Key areas for improvement will be noted and treatment will be customized for your home's unique needs.
If your home's air exchange is too high, specific air-sealing areas will be a recommended treatment option. One of the quickest dollar-saving investments in your home is to have all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside appropriately sealed. You can save as much as 10% on your heating and cooling bill by reducing the air leaks in your home.
Depending On Your Test Results, Air Sealing Treatment Options May Include:
- Caulking
- Sealing with tape or spray foam
- Adding or replacing weather-stripping
- Insulating your outlet and switch plates
Sources of Air Leaks in Your Home
Areas that leak air into and out of your home cost you lots of money. We check the areas listed:
1. Dropped Ceiling
2. Recessed light
3. Attic entrance
4. Sill plates
5. Water and furnace flues
6. All ducts
7. Door frames
8. Chimney flashing
9. Window frames
10. Electrical outlets and switches
11. Plumbing and utility access
What Is Involved In Air Sealing?
- This procedure can typically be performed in a few hours.
- Our Energy Management Technicians™ (EMTs) will come to your home at the scheduled time. They are professional, courteous and respectful of your home and your family.
- Your home will be sealed by experts with little interruption to your daily routine.
- After they have completed the procedure, they will be sure to remove all tools, equipment and debris. Your EMTs will also clean-up the project area, including vacuuming as sweeping as needed.
- Once your full Treatment Plan is complete, your MD will return and retest your home to confirm the work was done correctly and effectively.
