1. Have you checked you Air Conditioning system for leakage? This can be a major source for increased energy expenditures. Leakage can occur from several different locations, but one I find all too frequently is where the condensate drain connections in the evaporator section of the A/C are not plugged or sealed. This portion of the A/C is usually located in the attic or basement/crawlspace, and the unit is usually in line and adjacent the furnace or heat pump + air handler. Sometimes the air being lost is enough to blow your hair back, and enough conditioned air is leaking (heated or cooled) to condition a small room in the home. Think about it, you don’t want your hard-earned dollars leaking into the attic or other unconditioned spaces of the home.
2. Weatherproof exterior outlets that are damaged are not to be taken lightly. These outlets are designed to keep moisture away from the electrical components of the outlet. If damaged like this one with a missing cover, the outlet may cease to function, and any electrical protection (against shock) for the user of the outlet can be lost. Check the condition of your exterior outlets annually.
3. Caulking …everybody has heard of it. It is the application of flexible sealing compounds to close up gaps in buildings and other structures against water, air, dust, insects, or as a component in firestopping. It is very important to the durability of the exterior building components of the home, as well as an integral part the overall weather envelope. Have a look at your home and see what condition the caulking is in. In the photo below, NONE was present.
2. Weatherproof exterior outlets that are damaged are not to be taken lightly. These outlets are designed to keep moisture away from the electrical components of the outlet. If damaged like this one with a missing cover, the outlet may cease to function, and any electrical protection (against shock) for the user of the outlet can be lost. Check the condition of your exterior outlets annually.
3. Caulking …everybody has heard of it. It is the application of flexible sealing compounds to close up gaps in buildings and other structures against water, air, dust, insects, or as a component in firestopping. It is very important to the durability of the exterior building components of the home, as well as an integral part the overall weather envelope. Have a look at your home and see what condition the caulking is in. In the photo below, NONE was present.
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