3 Warning Signs of Leaking Ductwork in Your Air Conditioning System
Your HVAC system relies on a network of ducts to distribute cooled or heated air throughout your home or business. When these ducts are compromised, it can lead to energy waste, inconsistent indoor comfort, and even damage to your HVAC system over time. After all, it’s essential to identify any leaks early to avoid skyrocketing energy bills. So, to help, we’ve compiled the following three most common signs that your ductwork may have sprung a leak:
1. Increased Utility Bills
If your energy bills have unexpectedly climbed without a corresponding increase in usage, your ductwork could be to blame. Leaks in air ducts allow conditioned air to escape into unconditioned spaces such as attics, crawlspaces, or wall cavities. This means your HVAC system has to work overtime to maintain your desired indoor temperature — consuming more energy and inflating your monthly utility costs.
It’s important to compare your current energy bills with past usage during the same season. A sudden bill spike is a telltale sign that your system needs help. If you’ve ruled out appliance use, insulation issues, or thermostat changes, leaking ducts might be the problem you’re looking for. So, don’t hesitate. Schedule an inspection with our 5-star HVAC technicians to diagnose and correct the issue before it worsens.
2. Hot or Cold Spots in Your Home
Are certain rooms consistently warmer or cooler than others, no matter how you adjust the thermostat? Uneven temperatures are often a sign of air loss due to duct leaks. When air escapes before reaching its intended destination, some areas of your home won’t receive adequate airflow — creating hot and cold zones that are difficult to regulate.
While these temperature fluctuations could also be caused by poor insulation or a misbalanced air distribution system, duct leakage is one of the most common culprits. An HVAC technician can perform an airflow test to determine if your ductwork distributes air evenly and identify hidden leaks or obstructions.
3. Visibly Damaged Ductwork
Sometimes, the signs of a duct leak are visible. damaged ducts will almost certainly leak air.
Look for:
- Gaps between duct sections
- Kinks or collapsed segments
- Holes or tears in flexible ducting
- Rust or corrosion on metal ducts
- Disconnected joints or hanging sections
Even small cracks or pinholes can lead to significant energy loss over time. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to repair or replace the affected duct sections. Sealing and insulating your ducts prevents leaks and can improve indoor air quality and system efficiency.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — Call the Experts
Leaking ductwork isn’t just a comfort issue — it’s a drain on your wallet and your HVAC system’s lifespan. If you’ve noticed one or more of the warning signs above, it’s time to call Ground Zero Plumbing & A/C LLC. Our HVAC specialists can inspect your ductwork, perform an air balance, and recommend the best action to restore your system’s performance.
Schedule your ductwork inspection with Ground Zero Plumbing & AC today by calling 480-448-0603 and enjoy improved comfort, better air quality, and lower energy bills!