How to Check Air Ducts for Leaks That Could Be Costing You Money

If you have an AC duct leaking air, it could be costing you big time on your cooling bills. Las Vegas summers are already hot enough without your air conditioner struggling to cool your home. Fixing air duct leaks saves you money and helps your home stay comfortable by preventing air from leaking into parts of your home you don’t need to cool.

But before you can schedule repairs for a leaking duct, you need to know the leak exists in the first place.

Look for These Signs of a Leaking Air Duct

If you’re part of our Comfort Club, we’ll inspect your HVAC system annually. Between HVAC inspections, check for signs of a leaking duct, including:

  • A hike in your energy bills. When you lose heated or cooled air to the attic or outside, your system has to work harder to make up the difference. This leads to a rise in your bills as your AC, for example, cools more air than is usually necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature.
  • Uneven heating and cooling. Leaking ducts may mean certain parts of your home don’t receive as much heated or cooled air, depending on where the leak is. If your home suddenly develops hot or cold spots, you may have a leak in your ducts.
  • Excessive dust around your home. Leaking ducts can pull air from dusty spaces, like your attic, and distribute it to your living areas. You may notice increased allergy or asthma problems at home or notice needing to dust more often.
  • Whistling or hissing when your AC runs. If you can hear whistling every time the air comes on, it could be the result of air getting pushed through a tiny leak.

Performing an Air Duct Leak Test

Once you suspect you have a leak in your ducts, it’s time for a closer look. You may be able to see visual damage, like disconnected joints, kinks in flexible ducts, or large holes. Even duct tape is a sign of problems with your system; despite the name, it’s not rated to seal ducts and may be covering up a problem instead of fixing it.

But even tiny holes and cracks can leak air and increase heating and cooling costs. Since most ductwork is hidden in attics and walls, it can be difficult to see or hear leaks. If you suspect duct leaks are behind your HVAC problems call in a professional for an inspection. You may know how to fix minor air duct leaks, but you should still get a professional to inspect your system. There’s a good chance that where there’s one small leak, there could be more.

When to Schedule Professional Heating and Air Conditioning Duct Sealing

Professional duct sealing is the way to go if you have several leaks or large cracks or holes. Any immediately visible damage should get professional attention, as should cracks and holes larger than about half an inch. You should also skip trying to access ducts yourself if they’re not immediately visible, as it could lead to injuries or make the problems worse if your ducts are difficult to access. The pros can also tell you when your ducts are beyond saving and need duct repair or replacement instead of sealing.

The cost of duct sealing can vary depending on the severity of leaks, but it’s typically cheaper than replacing your entire duct system. Professional aerosol seals last the longest of all your DIY sealing options and help save money on your energy bills in the long run.

Aeroseal duct sealing provides a strong, lasting seal that will help keep your home cooled and heated efficiently while reducing any energy bills artificially raised by leaking ducts. Additionally, it reduces the likelihood of over-dusty ducts, promotes even temperatures and cleaner air throughout your home, improves airflow, and allows for greater humidity control.

Your Pros for Air Duct Sealing in Las Vegas, NV

One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating of Las Vegas is your go-to source for duct sealing. Our professional HVAC experts will find and repair leaks in your ductwork so you can enjoy a comfortable home without straining your air conditioner or pocketbook. If your ducts are beyond sealing, we can repair or replace sections as needed. Schedule service when you call us at (702) 602-8801 or book an appointment online.