Your AC could be working perfectly — and still wasting up to 30% of its cooling. That loss happens inside your ductwork, where leaks send conditioned air straight into a 150–160°F attic.
This is one of the most common — and most overlooked — HVAC problems in Las Vegas homes.
How Much Cooling Is Lost?
- Typical homes lose 20–30% of airflow
- In Las Vegas, losses can be even higher due to extreme attic heat
- Your system may work 30% harder to compensate
Why It’s Worse in Las Vegas
- Attics reach 150–160°F
- Leaked air is replaced by extremely hot air
- Creates higher cooling demand and bills
Where Duct Leaks Happen
- Air handler connections
- Trunk line joints
- Flex duct connections
- Register boots
- Disconnected ducts
Why Duct Tape Fails
Duct tape dries out and fails in extreme heat. It is not a permanent solution.
Mastic sealant is the correct method — it stays flexible and seals permanently.
Signs You Have Duct Leakage
- Rooms that don’t cool properly
- High electricity bills
- Long AC run times
- Uneven temperatures
- Dust around vents
How Much Does It Cost to Fix?
- $400–$1,200 for sealing
- $500–$1,500 if duct repairs are needed
How Much Can You Save?
- $45–$75 per month in summer
- $180–$300 per season
- $1,800–$3,000 over 10 years
Duct Insulation Matters Too
- Standard: R-6 to R-8
- Recommended in Las Vegas: R-12 to R-16
- Reduces heat gain by up to 65%
Why You Should Fix Ducts Before Replacing AC
Leaky ducts can make your system seem underpowered — leading to oversized replacements that cause more problems.
Fixing ducts first ensures proper system sizing and performance.
