How much does it cost to check for duct leaks?

Author: Mrs. Haylee Casper  |  Last update: Sunday, October 12, 2025

The average duct leakage test costs $325, though most homeowners spend between $115 and $450 depending on home size and ductwork accessibility. However, several other factors can influence what you'll pay.

How much does a duct leak test cost?

For a typical home, testing can range from $100 to $450 and repairs often cost between $300 and $1,500.

How to check for leaks in ductwork?

Turn your HVAC system on and return to the areas where ductwork is accessible. Check the connections between each section of duct, placing your hand over the metal. If you feel air against your hand, the connection is loose and there is an air leak. A common place for leaks is the duct joints.

How much does a duct inspection cost?

An air duct inspection costs $230 on average. Most homeowners pay between $140 and $380 depending on the amount of ductwork. Your home's air ducts may be out of sight—but they shouldn't be out of mind.

How much does a leak search cost for HVAC?

Depending on where the leak is, whether or not a leak test is needed, and what actually requires repair, an average refrigerant leak detection and repair can actually cost anywhere from $150 to $500 depending on how accessible the leak is for the technician.

Find & seal leaky ductwork - CHEAP!

Does homeowners insurance cover HVAC leak?

Your homeowners insurance may cover AC unit leaks that cause water damage. Typically, homeowners insurance will not cover the cause of the leak but will pay for the damage the leak causes. For example, if a pipe bursts and causes water damage, the damage is often covered, but the pipe replacement will not be covered.

Why is leak detection so expensive?

Why is leak detection so expensive? There is no one process for leak detection. The high price comes from using many different devices and products to locate the issue.

How much does it cost to repair a leaky duct?

Average Costs for Air Duct Repair

Minor Repairs: For small leaks or loose connections, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300. This usually covers the labor and materials for simple fixes. Moderate Repairs: If your ducts have more serious issues, like bigger leaks, the cost can range from $300 to $700.

Is a duct leakage test required?

Ductwork that is designed to operate at static pressures greater than 3 inches water column (747 Pa) and all ductwork located outdoors shall be leak-tested in accordance with the SMACNA HVAC Air Duct Leakage Test Manual.

Is duct work covered by insurance?

Is Ductwork Covered By Insurance? No, your homeowner's insurance will not cover ductwork, cleaning, repairing, or replacing it. If you purchased one, some home warranties cover ductwork, your policy will have that information available.

How do you fix leaky ductwork?

For minor leaks that are not widespread throughout the duct system, most homeowners can perform repairs themselves. Use metal tape or mastic sealer to seal affected areas, and consider insulating ducts in unconditioned spaces to prevent energy loss and reduce the risk of condensation buildup.

How do I check my house for air leaks?

Other air-leak detection methods include the following:
  1. Shining flashlight at night over all potential gaps while a partner observes the house from outside. Large cracks will show up as rays of light. ...
  2. Shut a door or window on a dollar bill. If you can pull the dollar bill out without it dragging, you're losing energy.

How do you calculate duct leakage test?

How to Calculate Duct Leakage?
  1. First, determine the duct design flow (CFM).
  2. Next, determine the allowable leakage percent (%).
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = DL = DF * AL / 100.
  4. Finally, calculate the Duct Leakage.

How much does a leakage test cost?

The average duct leakage test costs $325, though most homeowners spend between $115 and $450 depending on home size and ductwork accessibility. However, several other factors can influence what you'll pay. Let's explore these factors to help you budget and ensure the optimal performance of your HVAC system. U.S.

How do HVAC techs check for leaks?

The best way to find micro-leaks is using tracer gas testing. If the presence of a larger leak is suspected, it is common practice to use a pressure decay test before using a tracer gas test.

How much does new ductwork cost?

Duct replacement costs typically range from around $20–$60 per linear foot, based on our team's market research. For example, if your home has 100 feet of ductwork, a complete replacement can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.

How do I find a leak in my ductwork?

How To Find Leaks In Your HVAC Ducts
  1. Find Visible Tears In the Ductwork. Check the ducts for holes and cracks carefully. ...
  2. Turn The HVAC System On Full Blast. If you find it difficult to find the leaks, turn your HVAC system on full blast. ...
  3. Inspect The Duct Joints. ...
  4. Remove Duct Tape. ...
  5. Light Incense. ...
  6. Seal The Leaks. ...
  7. Test With Fog.

Do home inspectors check air ducts?

It is important for home inspectors to pay close attention to the state of air ducts and dryer vents for the safety of those having the home inspected.

What are the procedures for an air leak test?

The most common air leak testing methods for medical devices are pressure decay, vacuum decay, and tracer gas testing (see above). Hydrogen is the most commonly used tracer gas, because it tends to spread quickly to penetrate leaks and vents away faster than most other tracer gases.

Should 30 year old ductwork be replaced?

How long should ductwork last? You should replace your ductwork every 15 years because the materials deteriorate over time, impacting HVAC performance and indoor air quality.

Can I seal my ducts myself?

Some homeowners choose to take on duct sealing as a do-it-yourself project. Start by sealing air leaks using mastic sealant or metal tape and insulating all the ducts that you can access (such as those in attics, crawlspaces, unfinished basements, and garages). Never use duct tape, as it is not long-lasting.

How often should air ducts be cleaned?

Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.

How much should a leak detection cost?

On average, leak detection services cost $175–350. However, depending on the time and equipment needed to find a leak, homeowners might pay at little as $75 or up to $3,000 on the high end, as the time required and method used to find the water leak are the primary cost factors.

Do all plumbers do leak detection?

Plumber: Plumbers, on the other hand, are generalists who handle a wide range of plumbing issues, including leak repairs. While plumbers possess the skills to fix leaks, they may not always have the specialized equipment or expertise to locate hidden leaks efficiently.

Is leak detection worth it?

Ensures No Further Property Damage

Unless it's just a leaky faucet that's going down the drain anyway, it's safe to assume that an existing water leak in your plumbing is also causing property damage. Water damage is a nightmare for homeowners, and can cost you so much in repairs that it'll leave you seeing stars.

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