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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-duct-leak

In a typical house with forced-air ducts, about how much of the air is lost to leaks?

About 20 to 30 percent.

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  1. About 1 to 2 percent
  2. About 20 to 30 percent ✔
  3. About 60 to 70 percent

Why: Leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts waste a lot of heated or cooled air, so bills go up and rooms are hard to keep comfortable. Ducts in attics, crawlspaces and garages are common problem spots.

Huh, didn't know that: Tangled or kinked flexible ducts are another sign of poorly performing ductwork.

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When do computers overheat? When they need to vent.
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References

Answer: About 20 to 30 percent. Leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts waste a lot of heated or cooled air, so bills go up and rooms are hard to keep comfortable. Ducts in attics, crawlspaces and garages are common problem spots.

  1. ENERGY STAR: Duct sealing www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling/duct-sealing
    about 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. ENERGY STAR: Duct sealing www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating-cooling/duct-sealing
    The result is higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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