Published: January 2026
Keep Your Home Warm And Efficient This Winter
When cold Canadian weather sets in, some homes feel chilly no matter how high you turn up the heat. Uneven room temperatures, higher heating bills, and cold spots near windows or doors are all signs that warm air is escaping and cold air is seeping in.
These air leaks not only make your home less comfortable but also force your heating system to work harder — leading to higher energy costs. A professional home maintenance inspection can pinpoint where heat loss occurs, helping you improve efficiency, save money, and stay cozy all season long.
What Causes Air Leakage In Homes
Air leakage happens when outside air enters and conditioned air escapes through gaps, cracks, or unsealed areas in your home. Common problem spots include:
- Windows and Doors: Gaps in framing or worn-out weatherstripping.
- Attics and Roofs: Inadequate insulation or poorly sealed vents.
- Basements and Foundations: Cracks that allow cold air infiltration.
- Outlets, Light Fixtures, and Vents: Hidden leakage points often missed by homeowners.
Even the smallest openings can lead to substantial heat loss, especially during harsh winters.
How Air Leaks Affect Comfort And Heating Bills
When warm air continuously escapes your home, your furnace must work overtime to maintain a consistent temperature. This leads to:
- Cold Spots: Certain rooms feel colder or draftier compared to others.
- Increased Energy Use: Longer furnace run times mean more fuel or electricity is used.
- Higher Utility Bills: Heating costs rise as efficiency drops.
- Reduced Indoor Air Quality: Outside air can carry dust, moisture, and allergens indoors.
Sealing these leakage points not only boosts comfort but also extends the lifespan of your heating system.
Homeowner Air Leak Detection Checklist
You can perform a quick check around your home to identify potential problem areas:
- Check Windows and Doors: Look for light peeking through edges or feel for temperature differences.
- Inspect Weatherstripping: Replace any that’s worn, cracked, or missing.
- Look Around Electrical Outlets: Use foam gaskets or sealant if you feel cool air coming from them.
- Inspect the Attic and Basement: Ensure insulation is intact and evenly spread.
- Review Energy Bills: A sudden spike may indicate excessive heat loss.
If you notice multiple problem areas, scheduling a professional inspection can uncover the whole picture.
How Your Home Inspector Helps Identify Heat Loss
Your certified AmeriSpec home inspector uses advanced tools such as infrared thermal imaging camera, a smoke pencil, a blower door test, and energy auditing to detect where conditioned air is escaping from your home.
During the inspection, they will:
- Identify hidden gaps and insulation deficiencies.
- Evaluate attic and wall insulation levels.
- Detect moisture buildup caused by poor sealing.
- Provide recommendations to improve overall energy efficiency.
A detailed inspection helps you prioritize repairs that will deliver the biggest comfort and cost savings.
Schedule Your Home Energy Inspection Today
Before the next cold snap hits, make sure your home is ready to keep the heat where it belongs — inside.
📞 Call at 705-722-5876
🌐 Visit ontariohomechecks.ca to schedule your inspection today!