Leaky air ducts can seriously impact your indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and comfort. Whether it’s a minor tear or a major gap, an air duct leak can cause your HVAC system to work overtime, leading to higher energy bills and uneven temperatures in your Melbourne home or commercial space. At Hilux Cleaning Services, we believe in empowering property owners with the knowledge they need to spot problems early and fix them before they escalate.

Why Air Duct Leaks Matter

When your ductwork isn’t sealed properly, it allows conditioned air to escape and lets in dust, allergens, and pollutants from unconditioned spaces like attics and crawl spaces. This means:

  • Higher energy bills
  • Poor indoor air quality
  • Strain on your HVAC system
  • Hot or cold spots in different rooms

Fixing these leaks ensures better air quality, consistent temperatures, and cost savings in the long run.

Common Signs of Air Duct Leaks

Not sure if you have a duct leak? Here are some common symptoms to watch for:

  • Uneven heating or cooling in different rooms
  • Unusual increase in energy costs
  • Whistling or hissing sounds near ducts
  • Excessive dust around vents
  • HVAC system seems less efficient than before

Step-by-Step: How to Detect Air Duct Leaks

1. Visual Inspection

Run your heating or cooling system. Feel for escaping air by moving your hand close to duct joints.

  • Loose connections or disconnected joints
  • Visible holes, cracks, or tears
  • Accumulated dust or debris near leaks

2. Turn On the System

Run your heating or cooling system. Feel for escaping air by moving your hand close to duct joints.

3. Use Smoke or Incense

Light a stick of incense and pass it near the duct seams. If the smoke wavers or is sucked in, you may have a leak.

4. Listen for Noises

Whistling or hissing sounds when the HVAC system is on often indicate escaping air.

5. Professional Testing

For a comprehensive check, consider a duct leakage test by a professional technician from Hilux Cleaning Services.

How to Fix Air Duct Leaks

Once you’ve identified the leaks, there are a few methods to seal them:

1. Duct Tape (Temporary Solution)

Ironically, regular duct tape is not ideal for ducts long term. Use foil-backed tape for minor repairs.

2. Mastic Sealant

A long-lasting solution, mastic is a thick paste that seals holes and gaps effectively.

3. Foil Tape

UL-rated foil tape is a reliable way to seal joints and seams.

4. Duct Insulation

After sealing, insulate ducts to improve efficiency and prevent condensation.

5. Professional Duct Sealing

For lasting results, professional duct sealing ensures all hidden and hard-to-reach leaks are addressed properly.

Why Choose Hilux for Duct Leak Solutions?

At Hilux, we bring years of experience in duct cleaning and maintenance for Melbourne homes and commercial properties. Our team uses the latest tools and techniques to inspect and repair ducts, ensuring peak performance and air quality.

Key Maintenance Tips:

  • Reliable, local team
  • Competitive pricing
  • Prompt service across Melbourne

Get your system back in shape with expert care from Hilux Cleaning Services. 

FAQs

How do I know if my ducts are leaking?

A sudden rise in energy bills, uneven room temperatures, or visible gaps in ductwork are clear signs.

Can I seal air duct leaks myself?

Small leaks can be sealed using foil tape or mastic, but for thorough repairs, professional help is best.

Are air duct leaks dangerous?

While not immediately hazardous, they can worsen indoor air quality and lead to higher energy costs.

How often should I inspect my ductwork?

We recommend a professional inspection every 2-3 years, or sooner if you notice any signs of inefficiency.

Will duct sealing help reduce dust in my home?

Yes. Sealing leaks helps prevent dust, pollen, and pollutants from entering your airflow.