Energy bills that seem above the normal range can be caused by damaged ductwork in your heating and cooling system and may cause you to waste hundreds of dollars per year.
However, there are solutions to damaged ductwork that can prevent issues from getting worse further down the line. We will share all the signs that it’s time to replace your heating and cooling ductwork and why it’s important to replace it.
Reasons Good Heating and Cooling Ductwork Is Crucial
Your heating and cooling system is made up of many different components with different purposes. Ductwork is the part of your HVAC system that pushes air through the air ducts and circulates it throughout your home through the vents.
Low air pressure and high energy bills are just two problems that damaged ductwork can cause. Typically, these issues are caused by poor connection in your air duct system or holes and leaks being present.
The ductwork that is damaged can also create issues for your health. Toxic materials like mildew and mold can build up in damaged areas of your ducts and be pushed through the air duct system and out of the vents to you.
When ductwork is free from all problems it will create many benefits for you instantly. Some benefits include increased air pressure, the life of your system will be extended, and mildew and mold will no longer be present in your air.
How You Will Know It’s Time To Replace Your Ductwork
If you’re wondering how, you will notice that it’s time to replace your ductwork, read on to find the signs that ductwork replacement is best for your home.
Loud Or Odd Sounds Coming From Your HVAC System
All heating and cooling systems make normal sounds when it is on but noises that seem out of the ordinary can be a sign that your ductwork needs to be replaced. Rattling sounds are typically a sign that there is a joint in your air ducts that has been damaged. While hearing loud noises while air flows through the air duct system may indicate that a hole is present in your ductwork.
Energy Use Has Increased
We’ve touched base on how damaged ductwork will cause your home to use more energy. If your HVAC system is being overworked and overstressed trying to heat or cool your home, there is likely a leak or hole in your ductwork. This is what causes the high energy bill at the end of the month.
Some Rooms Are Hotter Or Colder Than Others
If you notice that when you walk into a room and it’s hotter or colder than others in your home your ductwork system is likely not able to push the air out evenly throughout your home. This is usually due to damage in the ducts like holes and leaks and causes the air to escape through the ducts before it reaches the room.
Your Home Is Full Of Dust
Having to dust your home constantly can be a headache. This frustrating situation may be due to dust entering your air duct system from outside through leaks or holes. The dust will then travel through the air ducts and into your home.
The Air Smells Like Mold Or Mildew
Mold and mildew can build up in your air duct system due to a variety of reasons. This includes temperatures fluctuating that create condensation, or ducts that are poorly connected or insulated. If you notice a smell like mold or mildew in the air it’s time for ductwork replacement as these toxic materials can wreak havoc on your health.
Infestation Of Pests
Rodents and bugs may find their way into your home through damage to your ductwork. These pesky creatures can easily make their way in through holes and leaks in your air ducts. If an infestation of pests happens it will cause further problems for your air duct system like blockages.
Vents Have Debris & Dirt Present
If the air around, you is very dirty you will notice that debris and dirt have built up around the air vents. Damaged ducts will cause lint, pet hair, dust, and dirt to collect around the opening of the vents.
Old Home & Ductwork
While ductwork is designed to last roughly 10-15 years, if your home is past that age and you’ve never had ductwork replaced you may be prone to more problems such as leaks or holes. It is highly recommended that you replace all the old ductwork.
Fixing Ductwork
Now that you’ve decided it’s time to have your ductwork replaced or repaired, it’s time to do something about it. You may be able to complete this project on your own.
Fixing your ductwork can be done by cleaning, sealing, and insulating your air duct system. Once you’ve done that you can ask a professional to complete an inspection to ensure all areas are repaired.
JW Plumbing, Heating and Air is the leading expert in replacing home heating and cooling ductwork. Give us a call today to schedule an inspection!
Business Hours
Quicklinks
