When homeowners think of leaks, they often think of pipes in the walls or under their sinks. But leaking can apply to your HVAC system as well. If there are punctures or incomplete seams in your ductwork, air can leak out and affect your home's temperature. Thankfully, there are tell-tale signs homeowners can look for to know when they should call an HVAC technician for a duct repair or replacement. Here's what you should know.

How to Recognize Leaky HVAC Ducts

1. Rooms That Never Cool Down

If rooms in your home cannot maintain a comfortable temperature, that's a surefire sign that your HVAC system isn’t working efficiently. If some rooms feel fine while others are ice cold or too hot, your ductwork is likely faulty. A properly sealed duct should distribute air evenly and change the temperature in each room at more or less the same rate. An HVAC technician can evaluate the temperature difference and determine whether leaking air is the cause.

2. High Energy Bills

It’s not unusual for energy bills to rise a bit during the warmest and coldest months when HVAC systems run more to maintain your home's temperature. However, if your energy bill has increased to an unreasonable level, having your HVAC system inspected could reveal an opportunity for repair. Sealing a leaky duct will help your system return to typical usage, keeping your home pleasant and saving you money. 

3. Unusual Amounts of Dust

All homes experience some levels of dust. However, sometimes people notice unusual dustiness throughout the house, even after routine cleaning. This is a common sign of leaking air ducts, as they release dust and it circulates through the house. If your home feels unusually dusty and nothing in your cleaning routine has changed, you may want to call an HVAC technician to check for leaks. 

4. Frequent HVAC Repairs

It's not surprising for older HVAC systems to need increased maintenance. However, leaky ductwork could be the culprit if your HVAC is relatively new yet requires frequent repair. This is because duct leaks cause your system to work harder than usual, putting unnecessary wear and tear on your unit and causing the parts to wear down faster.

If you suspect you have a leak in your air ducts, turn to Tin Man Heating & Cooling in Ashland, OH. This locally owned and operated company has over 30 years of HVAC experience, specializing in inspections, repairs, and installations. Visit the website for a complete list of services, or call (419) 289-7236 to request a quote.