What is a common source of air leaks in HVAC duct systems?

A common source of air leaks in HVAC duct systems is poorly sealed joints and connections. Over time, connections between duct sections can become loose or improperly sealed, allowing conditioned air to escape before it reaches its intended destination. This not only reduces the efficiency of the HVAC system but can also lead to temperature imbalances throughout the home, increase energy costs, and negatively impact indoor air quality.

Proper sealing techniques, such as using mastic sealant or metal tape at joints and connections, are critical to ensuring that the ductwork is airtight. It’s also essential that the installation follows best practices to prevent gaps or spaces that could become sources of air leaks.

In contrast, excessive insulation might lead to higher material costs without serving the core function of preventing air leaks. High-quality duct materials can improve durability and efficiency but do not inherently prevent leaks unless properly sealed during installation. Modern installation techniques aim to mitigate these issues but can still result in air leaks if the fundamental aspects of sealing and connections are neglected.