Disconnected, Torn Or Damaged Ducts

Most ducts are fairly delicate and easily damaged. Inspect your duct system for visible holes and, while its operating, feel for air leakage. Some duct sections that are supposed to be joined together may have pulled away from each other leaving gaps through which large quantities of air can leak.

Flexible duct sections may have been torn during installation or afterward. Almost any duct can be damaged by someone stepping on it or handling them roughly while crawling around them. Fiberglass ductboard sections are subject to damage if weight is placed on them. Whatever the cause, fixing holes in ductwork should be a high priority on your energy improvement list.