How to Tell if Your Ducts are Sealed and Avoid Energy Loss

If the ducts in your home are not properly sealed, it can lead to a number of problems, from uneven temperatures from room to room to poor indoor air quality.

This is a sign of an airflow problem, which may be due to a hole or a loose connection in the ducts.

Leaks in the air ducts can cause energy loss, costing you hundreds of dollars each year. To avoid this, it is important to seal and isolate the ducts. Checking for damage to the insulation surrounding the ducts is an important step in determining if there are any leaks.

Look for damp spots or mold, as these are signs of an obstruction that requires cleaning. Oxidation of the ducts is also an indication of a leak. Mark any areas with a pencil so that they can be sealed with adhesive tape after inspection. The easiest places to find leaks are along the joints where two sections of the ducts meet, also known as a duct joint. The causes of leaks in duct systems range from poor installation to poor maintenance and the age of the system itself.

To detect these leaks, a pressurized test is used with specialized equipment. If left unchecked, these leaks can lead to energy loss and deprive homes of indoor comfort. You can try to seal leaks in the ducts yourself with putty or aluminum adhesive tape (not duct tape), but it's best to call a professional. If you find an area with obvious or suspicious leaks in the ducts, mark it by drawing an arrow in the duct with a greasing pen to find out where the leak is. The average home loses 20 to 30 percent of the energy in its heating, ventilation and air conditioning system due to leaks in the ducts, leading to high utility bills. Over time, air ducts can become extremely dirty, causing or aggravating household health problems.

Since the duct system extends throughout your home or place of work, there is a greater chance of leaks and breaks. If you haven't had your duct system checked in the past five years, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. In addition to air loss caused by leaks, there are a few other problems that contribute to energy loss and the inefficiency of your home's ducts. Even if the build-up does not completely interrupt the flow of air, it inhibits the free circulation of air through the ducts. Service Champions offers industry-leading air duct cleaning, sealing and insulation services to keep your home clean and energy efficient.

By sealing your air ducts properly, you can save money on energy bills and improve indoor air quality. It is important to have your air ducts inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear.