How to Check Your Air Ducts for Leaks

Are you having trouble keeping your home cool in summer? Do some rooms stay warm even when your AC runs for hours? Or maybe you’ve noticed your energy bills are higher than usual? These problems are often caused by air leaks in your ducts. Leaky ducts can make your HVAC system work harder, leading to higher costs and reduced comfort.

Let’s look at what causes air leaks and how to identify them.

What Causes Air Leaks in Ducts?

Wear and Tear Over Time

As your ducts age, the joints and connections can loosen or detach. Materials like tape or sealants used in ductwork may also break down over time, leading to leaks.

Old Ducts

Even the strongest ducts don’t last forever. Gravity and time can cause the material to sag, crack, or pull apart at the seams. Without regular maintenance, leaks are more likely as the ducts get older.

Pressure Changes in Your Home

Air pressure imbalances in your house can pull air into or force it out of your ducts. These pressure changes may cause your duct connections to loosen, leading to leaks.

Animals in the Ducts

Small animals like mice, squirrels, or rats can damage ducts. Their weight and movement can loosen duct segments or break seals, creating leaks in the system.

Why Are Leaky Ducts a Problem?

Higher Energy Bills: Your HVAC system works harder to maintain the desired temperature, using more energy.

Reduced Comfort: Rooms may not heat or cool evenly, leaving some spaces too warm or too cold.

Shorter HVAC Lifespan: Extra strain on your system can wear it out faster.

Poor Air Quality: Leaks can pull in dust, allergens, and other contaminants, reducing the quality of the air in your home.

How to Spot Air Leaks in Your Ducts

Uneven Temperatures: Some rooms feel warmer or cooler than others.

Higher Utility Bills: Unexpected increases in energy costs may indicate duct issues.

Dusty Air: Leaks can let in dirt and debris, making your home dustier than usual.

Whistling Sounds: Air escaping from the ducts can create a faint whistling noise.

How Clearomax Can Help

At Clearomax, we offer professional duct maintenance and cleaning services to keep your system in top shape. Our experts can identify and fix leaks, helping you save money and improve your home’s comfort.