3 Easy Ways to Check Your Home for Air Leaks

An airtight home is a comfortable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective home. Unfortunately, air leaks can form over time and allow outside air to sneak in. Air leaks, most commonly found around doors and windows, lead to drafts that will ultimately raise your utility bills. Around Palm Desert, CA, where the hot daytime sun gives way to cold desert evenings, this can wreak havoc on your ability to enjoy your home. Here at Breeze Air Conditioning, we’re experts at detecting air leaks as well as providing heating and cooling services like installation, replacement, repair, and routine maintenance.

So how do you know if your home has an air leak?

1. The Hand Test

This is the easiest and most straightforward method. First, choose a day when you have your heat or air conditioning running. Next, test out each window and exterior door by placing your hands around the edges. If you notice an extreme difference in temperature compared to how the rest of the house feels, then you probably have an air leak.

2. The Candle Test

This test is fairly simple as well. Before beginning the test, you’ll need to switch off your air conditioner or furnace. Next, light a candle and carefully hold it near the area where you suspect there may be an air leak. Prime culprits include exterior doors and windows, crown molding, electrical outlets, and light fixtures. Does the candle flame flicker and dance? If so, you have a leak.

3. Use an Air Leak Detector

Many hardware stores sell a device called a leak detector or thermal detector. A sensor built into the detector picks up on thermal changes or ultrasonic frequencies caused by leaks that are too minute for a human ear to pick up. Most of them use an indicator light that will flash red or blue if it detects a leak.

Palm Desert’s Heating and Cooling Experts

Notice any leaks or drafts in your home? We can help. Breeze Air Conditioning has been Palm Desert’s top HVAC company since 1980. Our NATE-certified technicians will make sure your heating and cooling needs are taken care of whether you need installation and replacement, repair, or routine maintenance. Feel free to reach out to us.

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