Did you know that damaged heating and cooling ductwork wastes energy and can cost you hundreds of dollars a year? If your HVAC system has started using up more energy and having problems, your ductwork may be the cause.
It’s best not to wait for the issue to grow into a bigger problem since there are solutions available to fix your ductwork. Here we will share everything you should know about replacing your heating and cooling ductwork.
Why Good Heating and Cooling Ductwork Is Important
Having good ductwork is important for your home to stay comfortable during the hot and cold seasons. Ductwork is the component in your HVAC system that moves hot and cold air through the vents and ducts and into your home.
Typically, air duct systems are designed to last about 10-15 years and are made up of plastic and fiberglass. Ductwork is commonly an overlooked component when there is a problem with your HVAC system.
Typical signs of poor connection or holes in your ductwork are increased energy bills and lower air pressure. High energy bills are caused because the HVAC system has to work much harder to heat or cool your home.
High energy bills are not the only problem that damaged ductwork can create. Toxic materials such as mold and mildew can accumulate in the ducts and flow through the vents to you. This can be hazardous to your health.
When your ductwork is free from any issues you will reap the benefits almost instantly. Your HVAC system will work better and last longer and your air pressure will return to a normal level. You can also rest assured that you won’t be breathing in any mold or mildew particles that cause health issues.
Should I Replace My Ductwork?
There are some signs that it’s time to replace your ductwork. We’ll go over these so that you can decide if this is the best decision for your home’s HVAC system.
Your Heating and Cooling System Is Making Odd Noises
While every HVAC system makes normal sounds when it operates, there are some sounds that are a sign that your ductwork is damaged. Rattling or vibrating coming from your system indicates that a joint in your ducts is damaged while loud sounds that occur as air flows through the ducts are a sign of a hole.
Energy Bill Has Increased
When your HVAC system has to work harder it becomes strained and uses more energy. This is where the high energy bill comes from especially when you’re not using more electricity than normal. The air may be leaving through the ducts before it reaches you.
Uneven Heating Or Cooling
If you notice that one room is warmer than another when you have your heat on, the rooms are not being heated evenly. This is usually the result of the air not being able to flow through your ducts properly due to damaged ductwork or holes.
More Dust In Your Home Than Usual
When dust enters the ducts from outside through leaks or holes it will result in your home becoming more dusty than normal. So, if you’re noticing you have to dust more often, you likely have ductwork damage.
You’re Smelling Mold Or Mildew
Poorly insulated and connected ducts, and condensation due to temperature fluctuations will cause mold and mildew to accumulate. These toxic particles will flow through the vents and into your home which will cause that mildew or mold smell.
Having Issues With Pests
Bugs and rodents can enter your home through leaks or holes in your air ducts. If you’re seeing these pests in your home, there may be damage to your ductwork. Infestations will also cause more problems such as blockages.
Dirt And Debris Is Present Around Your Vents
Damaged ductwork will let pet hair, lint, dirt, and dust accumulate around your air vents. This is because the dirty air is flowing through the ducts and building up around the vent as it exits the ductwork.
Your Home Has Old Ductwork
As you’ve learned, ductwork is designed to last a long time but as your home gets older so do the air ducts. Older ductwork has a much higher chance of having issues such as holes or leaks.
How To Fix Your Ductwork
If you notice any of these signs that your ductwork needs to be replaced, an inspection is highly recommended. You may be able to only replace one or two damaged areas as opposed to the whole system.
If you want to fix your damaged ductwork on your own there are a few steps to follow. Make sure to inspect your ducts for any problem areas first. Then you will need to carefully clean your air ducts, seal them all, and then insulate them. Using a professional is always recommended due to delicacy of the duct system. A professional can help determine if there are any other problems that you may have missed, so it’s recommended to always have your work inspected.
The Bell Bros. team is experienced in replacing heating and cooling ductwork. Give us a call today for any ductwork questions you may have!