Did you know that 84% of homes in the United States have air conditioning?
An HVAC air duct leak can increase the risk of dangerous outdoor pollutants entering your indoor air. Are you dreading finding your air conditioner broken in the middle of summer because of a broken air vent?
To help you avoid this, we’ve compiled a list of signs that you can use to help you find any leaks faster. Want to find air duct leaks more quickly? Read below for more tips.
Not Cooling or Heating
HVAC air duct leaks can be identified by inspecting and feeling the air ducts for signs of damage. If the system is not heating or cooling correctly, it indicates an air duct leak. Any sudden temperature change can indicate that ac ducts are leaking.
A smoke test can be performed to identify air leaks. If a leak is identified, it should be patched or caulked to prevent further air leakage. If a leak is not visible, it can be determined by feeling the air ducts for relaxed or warm air.
Malfunctioning HVAC systems should be checked for air leaks. This can cause further damage to the system and even cause hazardous air quality.
Increase in Energy Bills
Spotting an HVAC air duct leak about increased energy bills can often be tricky. It is essential to inspect the air conditioning unit to make sure the duct connection is tightly sealed. If these are loose, it may cause a leak in the air duct.
Homeowners should conduct a visual inspection of the leaky air duct to determine if there are any holes or tears. Look for wet spots on ceilings and walls that could indicate a leak. Dispose of any debris that may be blocking the air duct.
Performing a duct pressure test can accurately detect leaks and help leads pinpoint the exact location of the problem. An increase in energy bills indicates that the homeowner should check your ductwork for possible leaks.
Abnormally High Usage of Energy
Signs of HVAC air duct leaks can lead to abnormally high energy usage and should not be taken lightly. The energy loss from HVAC air duct leakage can often be mistaken for signs of normal wear and tear, but it can lead to several issues, such as higher energy bills and higher humidity levels.
If a leak is suspected, one should take the time to investigate. Ensure a professional inspects the air ducts for any suspicious signs.
Obtaining an energy audit can also be beneficial in identifying any air duct leaks and related energy loss. Fixing air duct leaks can help save energy and money in the long run.
Drafts Near Air Vents
Signs of an HVAC air duct leak can often be detected near air vents. Air drafts usually indicate this. This is caused when air escapes from the leaking sections of the duct system.
Leaks can cause a decrease in the airflow from the vents, resulting in weakened airflow and inadequate heating and cooling from the HVAC system. In more severe cases, the leaks can reduce the system’s efficiency.
This can increase the amount of energy consumed and raise utility bills. If any of these symptoms occur, a professional must inspect the duct system to identify and repair any leaks.
Dirt Buildup
Air duct leaks can lead to poor indoor air quality caused by dirt buildup. Dirt can build up in the air ducts, pulling air from outside and circulating it inside the home.
Dirt buildup in the air ducts is a sign of a leak and should be checked immediately. Cracks could cause this, as openings in the ducts or even holes that can be hard to detect.
Dirt buildup also leads to inefficiencies in the HVAC system. This results in higher energy bills as air is being wasted.
Not only is undesired dirt being brought in, but the amount of air needed to be heated or cooled is increased. A professional should be consulted to detect and seal the air duct leak accurately and to remove the dirt that has built up inside the ducts.
Whistling Air Noises
When it comes to signs of HVAC air duct leaks, one of the most common and apparent signs is whistling air noise. This noise generally occurs as air escapes through a damaged ductwork part. This leads to a distinct whistling sound.
Affected areas of the ductwork may need to be patched or sealed to eliminate the whistling noise from the air ducts. A qualified HVAC technician should be contacted to inspect the air ducts and make the necessary repairs. Adequately sealed air ducts will keep your home comfortable and energy efficient.
Discoloration or Corrosion of Nearby Walls
Discoloration or corrosion of nearby walls can identify HVAC air duct leaks. A combination of poor environmental control, inadequate sealing of ducts, and other factors such as humidity or poor ventilation may cause corrosion.
Poor sealing of ducts allows air to escape, resulting in increased moisture levels in the home. This can lead to the accumulation of condensation on pipework near sheet metal ducts, leaving behind patches of discolored paint, indicating possible water infiltration.
Warped, swollen, cracked, and even peeling paint on walls and ceilings near HVAC systems may suggest air leakage. If you see signs of discoloration or corrosion of nearby walls, it’s time to call an HVAC specialist who can inspect your ducts to identify potential air leakage and repair it as necessary.
If you are worried about any of these, then it’s time for you to get more information on duct sealing and learn how to deal with the leaks properly.
Repairing a Leaky HVAC Air Duct
The signs of HVAC air duct leaks, such as high energy bills, dust, or debris, should not be ignored. Leaks can lead to decreased air quality and energy efficiency.
To ensure your air ducts are operating in good condition, it is best to contact a professional HVAC technician. Schedule a technician today and get your air ducts evaluated. Are you looking for more tips? We’ve got you covered. Check out the rest of our blog on our website.
