If you are trying to figure out how to get rid of leaking ducts, these troubleshooting tips should help.
Having a reliable HVAC service on speed dial makes troubleshooting easy. When calling for assistance, you're able to get an initial rundown on the problem. Many times, you'll get the advice you need to solve a problem without someone visiting your home.
Are Your Ducts Leaking?
Leaking ductwork is a common problem for HVAC systems. Temperature fluctuations test ductwork seals and frequently lead to gaps. Pests can also cause breaches, allowing the cool air you’re creating to escape into unused areas in your home. That’s not just bad for your budget. Cool air released into the wrong areas can create condensation and lead to moisture problems like mildew and mold.
Here’s how to tell if your ducts are leaking:
- Condensation has caused water damage. If you suddenly find watermarks on your ceiling and a pool forming below ductwork in an attic or crawlspace, you might have a ductwork leak. Check the seals on the ducts in the area, cover with mastic or metal tape and then wrap the ductwork in insulation.
- Your air filter gets filthy fast. Finding a ton of dirt and debris in your HVAC system is a clear sign there is a ductwork breech in the home allowing contaminants to enter the airflow. This is most common at return exchanges, so follow their ducts to the HVAC system. Patch appropriately or use spray foam insulation to bridge large gaps.
- Airflow is weak. Some rooms won’t stay comfortable no matter what you do, and others are hot or cold because there’s hardly any conditioned air making it through the vent into the room. This is easy to detect when the ductwork is open, but you might need the help of a professional to find and patch a leak located inside a wall or between floors.
If troubleshooting hasn’t helped you solve your ductwork leaks, get professional help before your energy bills explode. Contact our team at G + S Heating, Air and Energy Services for help today at 704-933-2256.
