When it comes to improving your home’s comfort and energy efficiency, few upgrades offer as much impact as proper air sealing, well-maintained ductwork, and professional home energy testing. Yet many homeowners hesitate to take the next step because of misconceptions that continue to circulate online and through word of mouth.
To help you make confident decisions, we’re debunking the top five myths about these essential home performance services. Let’s dive in.
Myth #1: Air Sealing Makes Your Home “Too Tight”
One of the most common misconceptions is that sealing air leaks prevents a home from “breathing.” In reality, uncontrolled air leakage (through gaps, cracks, and unsealed penetrations) lets outdoor air in at all the wrong places. This forces your HVAC system to work harder, wastes energy, and leads to uneven temperatures.
A properly air-sealed home is not airtight. Modern building science ensures that homes are sealed to improve comfort and efficiency while maintaining healthy ventilation. With balanced mechanical ventilation, you get fresh air where and when you need it–not through leaky walls or attics.
Myth #2: Duct Leaks Don’t Matter That Much
Many homeowners assume duct leaks are minor issues. The truth is that leaky ductwork can account for 20–30% of total heating and cooling losses in a typical home. That means a significant portion of the air you’re paying to heat or cool could be escaping into the attic, crawlspace, or basement instead of reaching your living areas.
Sealing and testing ducts ensures your HVAC system delivers conditioned air efficiently. This reduces energy costs, improves indoor comfort, and helps extend the life of your equipment.
Myth #3: Home Energy Testing Is Only for Older Homes
Older homes often have more leaks, but even newer homes can benefit from blower door and duct leakage testing. Construction varies widely, and even small gaps around plumbing penetrations, attic hatches, or recessed lights can impact efficiency.
Energy testing is valuable for:
- Newly constructed homes
- Recently renovated spaces
- Homes with comfort issues
- Houses with high energy bills
- Homeowners seeking rebates or energy-efficiency incentives
Regardless of the home’s age, testing provides a data-driven look at performance (not guesswork).
Myth #4: Air Sealing and Duct Sealing Are DIY Projects
While some tasks, like weatherstripping a door, are simple enough for DIY, most air sealing and duct sealing require professional tools and training. Identifying hidden leaks requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Effective duct sealing often involves reaching tight attic or crawlspace areas and applying materials that meet building-performance standards.
Professional sealing ensures the job is done safely, correctly, and in a way that actually improves your home’s efficiency–not just temporarily covers a problem.
Myth #5: Energy Upgrades Don’t Really Save Money
Because leaks and inefficiencies are often invisible, homeowners may underestimate the impact of fixing them. But the savings are very real. Energy testing pinpoints exactly where losses occur, while air sealing and duct repairs can significantly reduce utility bills, improve indoor air quality, and extend HVAC lifespan.
Over time, the reduction in wasted energy can offset the cost of improvements, making these upgrades one of the smartest home investments.
Trust Ensure Home Solutions for Expert Testing
At Ensure Home Solutions, we use advanced tools to provide accurate duct testing and customized recommendations for repair or sealing. Whether you’re concerned about your energy bills or want to improve the air quality in your home, we’re here to help you breathe easier and live more comfortably.
Contact us today to schedule your duct test and take the first step toward a healthier, more efficient home.
