What are some typical areas for air leakage in a home?

Air leakage is a critical area of concern in energy efficiency and comfort within a home. Selecting areas where air commonly leaks is essential for effective building performance analysis. Windows, doors, and electrical outlets are significant contributors to air leakage because they often have imperfect seals or gaps that allow conditioned air to escape and unconditioned air to enter.

Windows and doors may have worn weatherstripping or improperly fitted frames, which create openings for air infiltration. Electrical outlets, particularly those on exterior walls, can also allow air to leak in or out due to poor sealing around the boxes, further compromising the home's energy efficiency.

In contrast, while walls, ceilings, and floors can also experience air leakage, they are usually less direct contributors compared to windows and doors. Roof tiles and chimney caps are primarily related to structural integrity rather than direct air leakage points. Painted surfaces and wallpaper do not contribute to air leakage; rather, they are part of the home's aesthetics and surface finish.

Recognizing the typical areas for air leakage helps in conducting energy audits and implementing appropriate solutions to improve the overall energy efficiency and comfort of the home.