How do I know if my air ducts are properly sealed after repair?
Why Proper Duct Sealing Matters After Repairs
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Enhanced Home Comfort
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Our Trusted Partners
EXCELLENT Based on 1175 reviews Linda SmithTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Automatic Climate has always been 'johhny-on-the-spot" when service is needed - the techs are awesome, very courteous and of course, very knowledgeable! A+ Taran SonderborgTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’ve only had really Super service, always friendly, thoughtful & excellent service. They always explain what they’re doing & why, as well as offering options & advice about how to make the system more efficient. I could not ask for better service! Victor GarnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been using Joe G since we bought our house in 2014. He is always professional and on time. He answers all of our questions. We feel prepared for the next season always. Diane WithrowTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had our vents cleaned today Fist time in 35 years because didn’t know to do it The guys were very friendly & professional Moved furniture & cleaned up afterward Looks much cleaner
Owner's reply
Thank you, Diane, for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you’re pleased with the vent cleaning service—especially after 35 years! Our team takes pride in being friendly, professional, and thorough, and we’re happy to have left your home looking cleaner. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to serving you again in the future! Virginia O'MearaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ashanti was very knowledgeable and did not pressure me to buy anything. Also offered to get me coffee along the way! Thanks Ashante and Automatic Climate!
Owner's reply
Thank you, Virginia, for your fantastic review! We’re so pleased to hear that Ashanti provided knowledgeable service and made you feel comfortable with no pressure. Offering to grab you a coffee is just the kind of extra care we love to provide! Thanks for choosing Automatic Climate—we look forward to assisting you again! Ed MaddenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a customer of Automatic Climate for 15 years. Very professional. They give you that "first name" feel rather than you are just another customer. Jason was our latest tech and he was great. He even called to let me know he was 20 minutes out and asked me if I wanted him to pick up anything at the gas station convenience store as a courtesy. That's the kind of touch this company does. Best company in the space. Many neighbors agree.
Owner's reply
Ed, thank you for your loyal support over the past 15 years and for this fantastic review! We’re proud to treat every customer like family, and it’s great to hear Jason went above and beyond with that personal touch. We truly appreciate your kind words and your recommendation to the neighborhood—we’ll keep striving to be the best! Glenn PacapelliTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The technician's where very professional and answered all my questions. They all where all neat in appearance and work performance. I have used Automatic Climate Control for over twenty years, and I have recommended them to friends and family members alike. I would not use anyone else.
Owner's reply
Glenn, thank you for being a valued customer for over 20 years and for this glowing review! We’re so pleased to hear our technicians were professional, neat, and helpful in answering your questions. It means a lot that you recommend us to friends and family—we look forward to continuing to earn your trust! Sally MckeeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The technicians were friendly and thorough and very conscientious about my property. They made recommendations for future service, but did not do a hard-sell pressure, which I really appreciate.
Owner's reply
Thank you, Sally, for your kind words! We’re happy to know our technicians were friendly, thorough, and respectful of your property. Our goal is to offer useful suggestions without any pushiness, so we’re glad you valued that. Thanks for choosing us for your HVAC needs!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Exclusive Promotions and Coupons

$39 A/C
Tune-Up!
Take advantage of this limited time offer. Keep your home cool this summer with Automatic Climate!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.

$50 OFF Air
Duct Cleaning
Save $50 on your next air duct cleaning service for a limited time!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.

$49 Water
Heater Flush
Take advantage of this $49 water heater flush and make sure your water is heating properly!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.
Extended HVAC System Lifespan

Telltale Signs Your Duct Sealing Might Be Compromised
1. Uneven Temperatures Between Rooms
2. High Energy Bills
3. Excessive Dust
4. Visible Duct Damage or Disconnections
5. Strange Noises
6. Poor Airflow from Vents
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Signs Your Duct Sealing Might Need Attention
DIY Checks vs. Professional Duct Sealing Verification
Simple DIY Inspections
The Limitations of DIY Checks
While these DIY steps can identify major, obvious problems, they have significant limitations:
- Inaccessibility: Much of your ductwork is hidden within walls, floors, and ceilings, making visual inspection impossible without demolition. Significant leaks often occur in these hidden areas.
- Small Leaks Add Up: DIY methods are poor at detecting numerous small leaks, which collectively can account for substantial energy loss. Proper duct sealing addresses these comprehensively.
- Quantification Issues: DIY checks can’t measure the *total* leakage rate. You might find *a* leak, but you won’t know if the overall system meets acceptable standards for duct sealing.
- Safety Concerns: Navigating attics and crawl spaces can be hazardous. Working near HVAC equipment also carries risks if you’re unfamiliar with it.
When to Call the Professionals
Professional Methods for Confirming Duct Sealing Integrity
Duct Leakage Tester (Duct Blaster® Test)
This is the industry standard for quantifying duct leakage. The process generally involves:
- Temporarily sealing all supply registers and return grilles throughout the house.
- Connecting a calibrated fan (the “Duct Blaster”) to the duct system, usually at the air handler or a large return opening.
- Pressurizing (or depressurizing) the entire duct system to a standard pressure, typically 25 Pascals (Pa). This pressure difference simulates the operational pressure within the ducts.
- Measuring the amount of airflow (in cubic feet per minute, CFM) required by the fan to maintain that standard pressure. This airflow measurement represents the total leakage rate of the duct system (often referred to as CFM25).
The results of this HVAC duct testing provide a precise measure of how airtight your ducts are. Technicians compare this CFM25 number against industry standards or local building codes to determine if the duct sealing is adequate. A test performed after air duct repair can confirm its effectiveness. Quality duct sealing results in a low CFM25 reading.
Smoke or Fog Testing (Pressurized)
Thermal Imaging
Maintaining Ductwork Integrity: Post-Sealing Tips
What Constitutes “Properly Sealed”? Understanding the Standards
Beyond the numbers, proper duct sealing also involves using the right materials and techniques. Reputable professionals like those at Automatic Climate will use:
- Mastic Sealant: A gooey substance applied generously over joints and seams. It remains flexible and provides a durable, long-lasting seal.
- Metal-Backed Foil Tape: Specifically designed for HVAC applications (like UL 181 tape). It adheres strongly and withstands temperature fluctuations.
- Proper Mechanical Fasteners: Screws or clamps at connections before sealing ensure structural integrity.
- Aerosolized Sealants (e.g., Aeroseal): An advanced technique where sealant particles are blown into the duct system under pressure, automatically finding and sealing leaks from the inside. This method often achieves very tight duct sealing results.
Conversely, plain cloth-backed “duct tape” should *never* be used for sealing ducts. It degrades quickly under temperature changes and fails, negating any duct sealing effort. Seeing this tape is a red flag. Effective duct sealing relies on correct materials and skilled application, often involving comprehensive air sealing techniques.
The Long-Term Benefits of Confirmed Duct Sealing

Taking the step to verify your duct sealing after a repair isn’t just about fixing a potential immediate problem; it’s an investment that pays dividends over the long term.
- Sustained Energy Savings: Properly sealed ducts minimize wasted energy month after month, year after year, leading to consistently lower utility bills and a quicker return on your repair investment. This is key to long-term improve energy efficiency.
- Consistent Home Comfort: Enjoy reliable heating and cooling in every room, eliminating frustrating hot and cold spots. Verified duct sealing equals consistent comfort.
- Healthier Indoor Air: By preventing the infiltration of dust, allergens, and pollutants from unconditioned spaces, effective duct sealing contributes significantly to better home air quality and a healthier living environment.
- Reduced HVAC Strain: An efficient duct system allows your heating and cooling equipment to operate as designed, reducing wear and tear and potentially extending its operational lifespan, saving you from premature replacement costs. Good duct sealing protects your HVAC investment.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your duct system has been professionally tested and confirmed to be properly sealed provides confidence that your home is operating efficiently and safely.
Effective duct sealing isn’t a one-time fix forgotten after repair; it’s fundamental to your home’s performance.
Ensure Your Ducts Are Sealed Right!
Case Study: The Difference Verified Sealing Makes
Automatic Climate: Your Richmond Partner for Duct Sealing Verification
Why Choose Automatic Climate?
- ✔ Experienced Technicians: Our team is highly trained in all aspects of HVAC systems, including advanced duct sealing and testing techniques.
- ✔
- ✔ Comprehensive Services: From air duct cleaning and repair to new installations and maintenance, we handle all your HVAC needs. Excellent duct sealing is part of our comprehensive approach.
- ✔ Customer Satisfaction Focus: We stand behind our work. Check out our customer reviews and learn about our satisfaction guarantee. We aren’t happy until your duct sealing meets high standards.
- ✔ Local & Trusted: As a long-standing Richmond business (About Us), we’re committed to serving our community with integrity. We prioritize proper duct sealing for our neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Duct Sealing Verification
Further Reading & Resources:
Our Trusted Partners
EXCELLENT Based on 1175 reviews Linda SmithTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Automatic Climate has always been 'johhny-on-the-spot" when service is needed - the techs are awesome, very courteous and of course, very knowledgeable! A+ Taran SonderborgTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’ve only had really Super service, always friendly, thoughtful & excellent service. They always explain what they’re doing & why, as well as offering options & advice about how to make the system more efficient. I could not ask for better service! Victor GarnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been using Joe G since we bought our house in 2014. He is always professional and on time. He answers all of our questions. We feel prepared for the next season always. Diane WithrowTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had our vents cleaned today Fist time in 35 years because didn’t know to do it The guys were very friendly & professional Moved furniture & cleaned up afterward Looks much cleaner
Owner's reply
Thank you, Diane, for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you’re pleased with the vent cleaning service—especially after 35 years! Our team takes pride in being friendly, professional, and thorough, and we’re happy to have left your home looking cleaner. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to serving you again in the future! Virginia O'MearaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ashanti was very knowledgeable and did not pressure me to buy anything. Also offered to get me coffee along the way! Thanks Ashante and Automatic Climate!
Owner's reply
Thank you, Virginia, for your fantastic review! We’re so pleased to hear that Ashanti provided knowledgeable service and made you feel comfortable with no pressure. Offering to grab you a coffee is just the kind of extra care we love to provide! Thanks for choosing Automatic Climate—we look forward to assisting you again! Ed MaddenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a customer of Automatic Climate for 15 years. Very professional. They give you that "first name" feel rather than you are just another customer. Jason was our latest tech and he was great. He even called to let me know he was 20 minutes out and asked me if I wanted him to pick up anything at the gas station convenience store as a courtesy. That's the kind of touch this company does. Best company in the space. Many neighbors agree.
Owner's reply
Ed, thank you for your loyal support over the past 15 years and for this fantastic review! We’re proud to treat every customer like family, and it’s great to hear Jason went above and beyond with that personal touch. We truly appreciate your kind words and your recommendation to the neighborhood—we’ll keep striving to be the best! Glenn PacapelliTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The technician's where very professional and answered all my questions. They all where all neat in appearance and work performance. I have used Automatic Climate Control for over twenty years, and I have recommended them to friends and family members alike. I would not use anyone else.
Owner's reply
Glenn, thank you for being a valued customer for over 20 years and for this glowing review! We’re so pleased to hear our technicians were professional, neat, and helpful in answering your questions. It means a lot that you recommend us to friends and family—we look forward to continuing to earn your trust! Sally MckeeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The technicians were friendly and thorough and very conscientious about my property. They made recommendations for future service, but did not do a hard-sell pressure, which I really appreciate.
Owner's reply
Thank you, Sally, for your kind words! We’re happy to know our technicians were friendly, thorough, and respectful of your property. Our goal is to offer useful suggestions without any pushiness, so we’re glad you valued that. Thanks for choosing us for your HVAC needs!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Exclusive Promotions and Coupons

$39 A/C
Tune-Up!
Take advantage of this limited time offer. Keep your home cool this summer with Automatic Climate!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.

$50 OFF Air
Duct Cleaning
Save $50 on your next air duct cleaning service for a limited time!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.

$49 Water
Heater Flush
Take advantage of this $49 water heater flush and make sure your water is heating properly!*
*Expires 12/30/25. Offer can’t be combined with other offers or promotions. Offer valid for existing and new clients.