Date post: | 30-Mar-2015 |
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Basic Concepts
• Identify where air leakage occurs in the home
• Types of materials used to stop air leakage
Two conditions needed for air leakage:
– A hole– Driving force
across the hole
AIR
Lots Of Driving Forces
Image courtesy of Southface Institute
humidityhumidity
rainrain
windwind
humidityhumidity
FansFansheatheat
Driving forces move air in predictable directions
MoreMorePressurePressureMoistureMoisture
HotHot
LessLessPressurePressureMoistureMoisture
HotHot
You can’t do anything about driving forces,
so seal the holes!
AIR
Air seeks the path of least resistance.
Air will choose the largest
available path.
Where is air leakage greatest in the home?
• Ducts• Fireplaces• Plumbing
penetrations• Doors
• Windows• Fans and vents• Electrical outlets• Floors, walls and
ceilings
Air Leakage
Big HolesChases
Plumbing penetrations
Droppedceilings
Access panelsCeiling fixtures
Ducts
Sill plates
Vents
Window openings
Door openings
Air Leakage Results In:
• Wasted energy• Stack effect• Drafts• Discomfort
Floors and Ceilings
Stopping the Leaks!
• Start at the top• Seal and insulate duct work • Seal low spots• Provide combustion air for
combustion appliances• Use caulk, foam or
weatherstripping
Caulk
Foam
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping Doors
Outlets and
Switches
What Caulking to Use?
What Kind of Weatherstripping?
Chimneys
Storm Windows
Key Points:
• Air leakage results = energy loss and discomfort
• Seal air leaks at top first, then lower and be mindful of combustion equipment
• Cauling, foam and weatherstipping can be used to seal air leaks
For More Information
• Major Resources:– http://www.eere.energy.gov/
buildings/building_america/
– http://www.energystar.gov/homes