Cool air leaks may not seem like a big deal, but they can become incredibly costly over time. A cool air leak puts added pressure on the HVAC unit and can increase the monthly energy costs and lead to early repairs and replacement of the HVAC system itself. This is, of course, in addition to the other negative effects of cool air leaks, such as poor air quality, the inability to control the temperature inside your home or business and moisture and water damage.
Increased Energy Costs
Cool air leaks have a short-term financial impact as well as long-term. This is because a cool air leak allows climate-controlled air inside your home or business to leave and lets the outdoor air inside. When this occurs, the HVAC unit has to work extra hard to keep the building at the temperature set on the thermostat, causing increased energy costs monthly.
According to Energy Star, 10 to 40 percent of the energy bill each month is caused by cool air leaks. This means a home or business that is not properly sealed or caulked can lead to home and business owners paying hundreds more a month and a thousand or more per year. On the other hand, a home that is professionally caulked can save the home or business owner money, which provides a return on investment for the professional service, in addition to offering a more comfortable feel inside the building.
Wear On HVAC Unit
Another major concern of cool air leaks is the added stress they put on HVAC units. When HVAC units are properly cared for and not required to work around the clock every day, they can last for twenty-five years or more before needing a major repair or replacement.
However, HVAC units that are under more stress due to air leaks letting all of the conditioned or heated air out of the home can place more stress on the HVAC unit. This not only leads to increased energy costs, but it also reduces the life expectancy of the HVAC unit, leading to the need for a new HVAC unit in fifteen years or less.
If a cool air leak leads to wear and tear on the HVAC unit and the need for early HVAC replacement, then it can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000. The average cost for an HVAC unit replacement is around $7,500.
Likely Areas Of Cool Air Leakage
A cool air leak can come from a range of places. Identifying the source of a cool air leak is the first step to fixing the concern long-term. Several of the more common places where one may exist include:
- Attic door
- Outdoor fixtures
Any part of your home or business that opens is naturally vulnerable to cool air leaks. Most notably, doors and windows are perhaps the two most common sources of cool air leaks. The use of sealant and professional caulking can prevent cool air leakage long-term.
There are many other potential sources of air leakage that are often overlooked. Attic doors that are not properly sealed when closed can lead to a cool air leak. Damage or openings with the building’s foundation, roof or outdoor fixtures may also cause cool air to leave the home and outdoor air to enter.
How To Know If Cool Air Is Leaking
There are several ways to test for a cool air leak. In many cases, a cool air leak is detectable visually. The first step in finding the source is to examine all windows and doors, in addition to the attic door, foundation, roof and all other possible sources. If you find minor leaks, then you may be able to repair them yourself with DIY sealant and caulking. However, if there are larger cool air leaks or multiple openings, then it requires the help of a caulking professional.
If you know a cool air leak exists due to rising energy costs, damage to the HVAC unit, poor air quality or another concern and are unable to find the source through visual examination, then you can try a DIY home pressure test. If you are still unable to find the source, then you should consider calling a professional.