23 Dec Putting Your Window To The Test: How Best Can You Locate Leaks?
Where air escapes, bills and payments only grow. After all, wasted energy and an overworked HVAC system will cost more and more for every month that they go overlooked, prompting many homeowners to eventually seek out certified help with regard to window leaks.
For example, they may look up the list of NFRC-recognized air leakage labs, which “have been recognized by the NFRC to conduct air leakage testing per ASTM E283 and/or NAFS.”
But, at the end of the day, is it really necessary to undergo the trouble of lab testing all to diagnose a leak?
Thankfully, no, it’s not. Simply read on to learn more:
Widening Your View Of Your Window
What if we told you that you didn’t necessarily have to jump through the hoops of official testing to diagnose a leak in your windows?
More often than not, homeowners need only to rely on their eyes to determine where cracks may ultimately be letting rogue air in and/or out around the window.
“With the window open, check the inside of the frame and sash, especially the underside of the operable window,” HGTV recommends. “Check the sill, the bottom flat part of the window frame, to make sure it is pitched to drain water to the exterior. Probe the wood frame and trim with a screwdriver to check for soft or decayed wood.”
If you find any of the aforementioned, you can safely assume your window is likely to be leaking air.
Are You Already Feeling The Pressure?
At the end of the day, some cracks are liable to fly under the radar, thereby proving difficult to detect through a traditional visual inspection.
“If you are having difficulty locating leaks, you may want to conduct a basic building pressurization test to increase infiltration through cracks and leaks, making them easier to detect,” the U.S. Department of Energy recommends.
In this case, a simple stick of incense will be all you need.
Begin by turning off all combustion appliances (like water heaters) and shutting all doors, windows, and your fireplace flue if applicable. Then, turn on your exhaust fans throughout the house and pass the incense stick around areas of suspected leaks.
If the smoke is blown out or visibly wavers in the air, there is a draft or leak in that particular spot.
When the Leak Is Legitimate
No matter the time of year, a window leak is capable of increasing your monthly bills, disrupting your comfort, and opening the opportunity to further structural damage to your property.
And if your windows have reached the end of their lifespan, it’s time to contact Renewal by Andersen® of Florida!
When you work with our team, the window of opportunity to increase your home’s curb appeal and value will be apparent. Not only do we specialize in window replacement, but we also offer High-Performance™ Low-E4® SmartSun™ glass, thereby increasing your home’s overall energy efficiency.
So, are you ready to schedule your FREE consultation? Reach out to us today by calling (855) 830-2420!