The Hidden Cost of Air Leaks

Air leaks are invisible energy thieves. The average London, Ontario home loses 25-30% of heated air through gaps, cracks, and poorly sealed openings. That's like leaving a window open all winter—costing you $450-$720 annually in wasted heating.

Where Air Leaks Hide

Air leaks occur in predictable locations. Here are the biggest culprits:

1. Windows and Doors (30% of air leaks)

Gaps between window frames and walls
Worn weatherstripping around doors
Cracks in window glazing
Gaps under exterior doors

2. Attic Access Points (25% of air leaks)

Attic hatches without proper sealing
Pull-down attic stairs
Gaps around attic ductwork
Recessed lighting fixtures

3. Electrical and Plumbing Penetrations (20% of air leaks)

Electrical outlets on exterior walls
Light switch plates
Cable and phone line entry points
Plumbing stack penetrations

4. Basement and Foundation (15% of air leaks)

Rim joists (where walls meet foundation)
Basement windows
Dryer vents
Foundation cracks

5. Other Common Locations (10% of air leaks)

Fireplace dampers
Mail slots
Pet doors
Exhaust fans

DIY Air Leak Detection

The Smoke Test (Best for Windy Days)

Close all windows and doors
Turn off furnace and exhaust fans
Light an incense stick or candle
Hold it near suspected leak areas
Watch for smoke movement indicating drafts

The Hand Test (Quick and Easy)

On a cold, windy day, slowly move your hand around windows, doors, outlets, and other potential leak areas. You'll feel cold air infiltration.

The Dollar Bill Test (For Doors)

Close a door on a dollar bill. If you can pull it out easily, the weatherstripping needs replacement.

Professional Air Leak Detection

For comprehensive leak detection, professionals use:

Blower Door Test: Creates negative pressure to identify all leaks
Thermal Imaging: Shows temperature differences indicating air infiltration
Smoke Pencils: Professional-grade smoke generators for precise leak location

DIY Sealing Solutions

For Windows:

Apply weatherstripping to movable parts
Use caulk for stationary gaps
Install window film for extra insulation
Add rope caulk for temporary sealing

For Doors:

Replace worn weatherstripping
Install door sweeps at bottom
Add threshold seals
Use draft stoppers for unused doors

For Electrical Outlets:

Install foam gaskets behind cover plates
Use outlet sealers for unused outlets
Caulk around outlet boxes

When to Call Professionals

Some air sealing requires professional expertise:

Attic Air Sealing: Requires proper ventilation balance
Rim Joist Insulation: Needs spray foam for best results
Recessed Lighting: Must maintain fire safety clearances
Comprehensive Sealing: Blower door testing ensures completeness

Professional Air Sealing Benefits

Essential Home Solutions' complete draft sealing service includes:

Thermal imaging to identify all leaks
Professional-grade materials and techniques
Proper ventilation balance
Guaranteed results with before/after testing
Rebate-eligible work documentation

Cost vs. Savings Analysis

DIY Approach:

Materials cost: $100-$200
Time investment: 8-12 hours
Effectiveness: 50-70% of leaks sealed
Annual savings: $150-$300

Professional Approach:

Service cost: $400-$600
Time investment: 4-6 hours (professional work)
Effectiveness: 90-95% of leaks sealed
Annual savings: $300-$500
Payback period: 1-2 years

Best Time for Air Sealing

While air sealing can be done year-round, winter is ideal because:

Leaks are most noticeable in cold weather
Immediate comfort improvement
Instant energy savings
Prevents ice dam formation

Complete Winter Home Care Package

Our Package B includes comprehensive draft sealing plus:

Full winter home inspection
Furnace filter replacement
Smoke & CO alarm battery replacement
Smart thermostat optimization
Thermal camera heat-loss scan

Investment: $350 | Annual Savings: $400-$700

Ready to stop wasting money on heated air? Call Essential Home Solutions at (519) 572-7674 to schedule your draft sealing service today.

Draft Sealing 101: Stop Wasting Money on Heated Air