How to Check for a Central Air Leak
- 1). Check for kinked ducts and all ducts that run through crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
- 2). Check all insulated ducts to see if they have streaks of dirt around the seal. If they do, it usually means you have a leak.
- 3). Check for air leaks around joints where duct work meets heating or cooling units. Also, check around the plenum and areas where ducts split. If you have a leak, you will usually see open spaces and cracks.
- 4). Secure metal duct straps every 5 feet in areas that have flexible ducts. Sometimes installers do not secure every 5 feet and it usually leads to ducts sagging, detaching, and eventually, leaks.
- 5). Apply mastic paste around joints, collars and corners of the entire air or heating system. This will seal the system and help prevent leaks.
