Damaged heating and cooling ductwork has the ability to waste energy and cost you hundreds of dollars per year. If you’ve seen a spike in your energy bill but aren’t using it more than normal, then your HVAC system’s ductwork may be the reason.
There are solutions to heating and cooling ductwork problems so it’s best not to ignore the issue while it gets worse. In this article, you will learn if you should replace your ductwork and why having a good functioning ductwork system is important.
How Good Heating and Cooling Ductwork Is Important
Your heating and cooling ductwork is the component of your HVAC system that pushes the cold and hot air through the vent system and into your home. When your ductwork is free from damage it will function better which will make a big difference for your comfort during the hot and cold months.
However, these are not the only problems that bad heating and cooling ductwork can cause. Your health can be compromised due to toxic mildew and mold particles flowing through your ducts and vents for you to breathe in.
Once your ductwork has been repaired or replaced you will notice the benefits right away. Your HVAC unit will have an extended lifespan and will function more efficiently. Your air pressure will also be steady and normal. Health issues due to mold and mildew will also be avoided.
How Do I Know It’s Time To Replace My Ductwork?
If you’re wondering if it’s time to replace your ductwork, look at the below signs and symptoms of bad or damaged ductwork.
Your Heating and Cooling System Makes Strange Noises
Some strange noises coming from your HVAC system can be a red flag that ductwork needs to be replaced. Even though every system makes normal operating sounds, vibrating, rattling, or loud noises that come from your ducts as air flows through are not typical noises.
Your Energy Bill Has Gone Up
When more energy is used because of your system being strained and working harder to cool or heat an area, your energy bill can skyrocket. In most cases, this happens because air is leaving the ducts before it has a chance to flow through the ductwork system and into your home.
Some Rooms In Your Home Are Hotter Or Cooler Than Others
Uneven heating or cooling in your home happens because the air is not being pushed through the vents correctly. This is usually the result of holes or damaged air ducts in your HVAC system.
Dust Accumulates In Your Home
If you notice that your home is accumulating more dust than usual, you may have damage to your ductwork. Dust from outside will enter the home through holes and leaks and will cause the dust to accumulate.
You’re Smelling Mildew Or Mold
When temperatures fluctuate it will cause condensation to accumulate and create mildew and mold. This can also happen when the ducts are poorly connected or insulated. If you smell this coming through your vents, it’s important to get an inspection as these materials can make you sick.
Noticing An Increase In Pests
If you’re noticing that there are a lot more pests in your home, this is likely due to damage such as holes and leaks in your air ducts. More issues such as blockages can be caused due to pest infestations.
Dirty Vents
When you see debris and dirt on the outside of your air vents it’s likely due to damage to your ductwork. This lets lint, dirt, dust, and pet hair easily accumulate around the vents.
Ductwork Is Old
Homes with old ductwork will have a much higher probability of the ducts having leaks or holes. Even though this system is designed to last many years as your home ages, so does your ductwork.
Fixing Your Ductwork
Now that you’re aware of the signs that your ductwork needs to be replaced, it’s time to get an inspection done. This can help you only replace the damaged areas instead of the whole system.
Fixing your ductwork can be done on your own if you follow a few steps. First, take a look at your air ducts and search for any damaged areas. Next, clean your ducts thoroughly. Then you’ll need to seal and insulate all air ducts. Having an HVAC professional do an inspection is recommended.
The ASI team has all the knowledge and experience to replace your heating and cooling ductwork. Give us a call today for an inspection!
