Duct leaks are a common problem among old HVAC systems, and one that’s not easy to detect. In this blog, heating and cooling company Hader shares a closer look at how duct leaks occur and what can be done to fix them.
Telltale Signs of Duct Leaks
Duct leaks typically occur at joints and along the length of flexible duct hoses. If you run your hand over these areas, you should be able to immediately feel if there’s a leak. Some people test leaks by lighting incense and seeing if the smoke is affected by air movement near the ducts, while others introduce fog into the vents using a fog machine–the kind used for movies and concerts. While the fog machine is running, the ducts are inspected to find any spots where fog is leaking out.
If you’re seeing a significant increase in your utility costs, particularly during seasons that require heating and cooling, this is a telltale sign of a leaking air duct system. Leaky air ducts release heated or cooled air into areas where it’s not needed. The HVAC system then increases its output to compensate, consuming more energy. In addition, dust from other parts of your home, such as the basement and attic, may spread to your living spaces through leaky ducts. Uneven temperatures are yet another sign of leaky ductwork.How to Fix Leaky Ducts
The first step in fixing leaky ducts is to determine the extent of the leaks. In cases where there are just too many leaks, it may be best to just replace the ducts. Repairs made with duct tape are temporary at best, as the holes or cracks need to be properly sealed. Duct cleaners typically use a sealant spray to seal the ducts, but it’s blindly applied and doesn’t necessarily guarantee a full seal.
We at Hader use Aeroseal, a sealant dispersed as an aerosol into the ductwork. We install Aeroseal by sealing all the vents and releasing Aeroseal while the blower fans are running. Aeroseal particles cling to holes as they circulate, building up in them until everything is sealed. Aeroseal seals up any cracks or holes particle by particle, creating a tight, long-lasting seal.Call Hader for Your Duct Sealing Needs
Hader is your leading provider of heating and cooling services. Give us a call at (513) 612-9201 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
