Infrared Camera Reveals SHOCKING Air Leakage in NEW ENERGY STAR HOME! How did this happen?!?
Introduction
Energy-efficient homes are designed to provide comfort, save energy, and maintain high indoor air quality. But even ENERGY STAR Certified Homes aren’t immune to construction flaws, unfortunately. Recently, a home certified under the ENERGY STAR program was put to the test with an infrared camera and a blower door system to simulate air leakage, revealing shocking air leaks in places that were required to be sealed. Here’s what we found and how these issues can be resolved now.
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Key Findings of the Inspection
1. Top Plate Leakage
The primary culprit of air leaks was found where the top plates meet the drywall in the attic. ENERGY STAR Home V3.1 standard require air sealing these gaps, but apparently most, if not all, were missed during construction. Air infiltration here compromises the attic insulation’s effectiveness, decreases comfort, and increases energy costs for the homeowners.
2. Subfloor and Bottom Plate Issues
On the second floor, subfloors were not sealed to the bottom plates of the exterior walls, which the IR camera showed gaps that allowed air to flow freely. While the first floor used a sill sealer between the concrete slab and the bottom plates, this doesn't completely air seal those materials together. Air sealing with proper silicone caulking are critical in these areas to prevent unnecessary air leakage and heat loss.
3. Window Seal Deficiencies
Windows are a common source of leaks, and this home was no exception. A slightly bowed frame on one window allowed air to seep in, compromising comfort and energy efficiency. A simple adjustment or sealing the gap with weather-resistant tape can address this issue.
4. Compressed Insulation
In several areas, especially in the outside edges of the ceilings, insulation was compressed or missing almost entirely. This reduces the house's ability to insulate effectively, leading to cold spots and drafts. Ensuring all insulation is evenly distributed and installed without gaps is essential.
5. HVAC and Lighting Air Leaks
Air leakage was found around supply duct boots and lighting fixtures in the second floor ceilings. These gaps, though small, can add up to significant air leaks. Sealing the boots to the drywall and caulking gaps around and inside electric junction boxes can improve efficiency.
Why Do These Problems Occur?
The issues highlighted by the infrared camera often stem from poor workmanship during construction and a simple lack of enforcement by the HERS Rater doing the certification. Inadequate sealing and rushed insulation installation can turn even an ENERGY STAR Home into an energy hog. Proper oversight and inspections, and attention to detail are essential during the building process to avoid these problems.
How to Fix These Air Leaks
Seal Top Plates and Bottom Plates: Use siliconized latex caulk or foam to seal gaps between the top plates and drywall. 3/8" diameter "backer rod" can be stuffed under the base trim on the first floor to fill the gap behind the carpet tack strip and the concrete floor. This is right in front of the bottom plates of the exterior wall.
Fix Window Frames: Adjust bowed frames and seal gaps with tape or caulk.
Improve Insulation: Ensure insulation is evenly distributed and not compressed. Add more blown-in insulation where necessary.
Address Duct and Light Box Leaks: Remove registers, seal boots to drywall, and use silicone caulk to seal lighting boxes to drywall.
Final Thoughts
This inspection serves as a valuable reminder: certifications like ENERGY STAR Homes are great, but they’re not foolproof. Homeowners and builders alike must pay attention to the details to ensure homes meet their efficiency potential. If you suspect air leakage in your home, an infrared inspection with a blower-door system can be a game-changer for identifying and fixing these hidden problems.
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