A Duct Leakage Test is a procedure used to assess the airtightness of a building’s ductwork system. It helps identify air leaks in the ducts that can lead to energy loss, poor indoor air quality, and reduced HVAC system efficiency. By measuring how much air escapes through the duct system, this test ensures the ducts are properly sealed and functioning efficiently.
Ductwork Air Leakage in attics causes a build-up of condensation and water, which supports mold growth. The water can damage your ceilings. Not only can that moisture build-up cause damage to your ceiling, but it can also invite mold. Those mold spores will circulate in your home, affecting air quality and posing a hazard to your health. Instead of dealing with mold remediation later, it’s better to test your ductwork for leakage now.
Do you keep lowering the thermostat, only to keep the air warm and moggy? If your ducts are faulty or leaky, cool air will escape through those holes, cooling down the attic or outside areas, then you need a duct leakage test. Consequently, your air conditioner will have to work overtime to compensate for the wasted air, which could mean a higher energy bill. Aside from the possible leakage from the air ducts, insulation should be considered in order to improve overall efficiency of the system.
HVAC professionals generally recommend changing your air filters every three months or so. If your filters need to be replaced every three weeks, your ductwork could be the problem. The dust and other contaminants that get sucked in through your air ducts often have nowhere else to go and end up in your filter. The quality of the air filter used on your system affects the air quality; a MERF-13 filter will work better at removing dust from the air than a lower MERF filter. Also, the air filter must be replaced whenever a mold remediation is conducted.
If your ducts leak, the rest of your HVAC system must work overtime to compensate for those holes. This can translate to frequent system breakdowns and the need for repairs. Call us for a pressurized leak test if your AC unit needs repairs frequently.
Your air ducts’ only function is to distribute air throughout your home. They will have difficulty distributing the air evenly if it is leaking, pinched, or flat. If one room is freezing and another is uncomfortably warm, then an air duct leak could be blamed. Additional Resources: CDC
