Air ducts are perhaps the last thing you consider when taking care of your HVAC system. However, air ducts play an essential role in ensuring your overall home comfort. Without them, your HVAC system cannot perform its job.
Even though they’re often forgotten about due to their hidden placements, air ducts need regular repairs, maintenance, and replacement. But how do you determine if your air ducts need replacement? Here are eight signs that show it’s time for new ductwork.
1. Age
With proper maintenance, ductwork can last for up to 15 years. However, air duct seals, seams, and joints deteriorate over time. This deterioration can cause numerous HVAC problems, including poor performance, overuse of energy, and overall discomfort in your home. Like other HVAC equipment, air ducts undergo natural wear and tear; that’s why it’s imperative to have your ductwork inspected and possibly replaced.
2. Poor Airflow
Airflow issues are sometimes an indication of ductwork problems. If your HVAC system isn’t operating as required, ductwork might be the culprit. When your ductwork is old, clogged, or damaged in any way, your home will probably suffer the consequences — discomfort and high utility bills. If you notice persistent airflow issues, consider replacing your ductwork.
3. High Energy Bills
If your ductwork has tears or holes, your HVAC system will strain to reach its peak performance. If this occurs, your cooling or heating system will consume a lot of energy, making you spend more on energy bills. If you notice a considerable increase in your energy bills, have an HVAC technician inspect the air ducts for leaks and other problems. If the leaks are minor, you can get your ductwork sealed to reduce energy use. Nonetheless, there are some cases when ductwork replacement becomes the only solution to this issue.
4. Noisy Operation
Air flowing via the air ducts can make your ductwork expand and contract. This contraction and expansion can cause your air ducts to produce popping sounds that can be annoyingly loud. If you start hearing abnormal sounds, such as rattling, as air flows through your ductwork, then it’s time to call in HVAC technicians for ductwork replacement.
5. Mold and Odors
Mold is a severe problem, mainly when it develops in your ductwork, that requires immediate attention. When mold occurs, your HVAC system spreads mold spores and unpleasant odors throughout your home every time it runs. From serious allergies to potentially severe respiratory infections, mold in the air ducts can potentially cause countless problems. If your HVAC system produces a filthy smell and you suspect mold growth in your ductwork, call Air Tech of Central Florida right away. Duct cleaning may help, but a complete replacement is an ideal solution for mold.
6. Poor Cooling or Heating Performance
You may notice that some rooms are not cooling or heating up properly. This might be caused by faulty ductwork that doesn’t circulate enough air to some parts of your house. You can quickly confirm this issue with an indoor thermometer. If you notice considerable temperature differences, have a licensed HVAC professional inspect your ductwork. The problem might be caused by leaking air ducts.
7. Improper Duct Installation or Design
Ductwork systems are strategically designed and installed in your home to cool or to warm each space while maintaining optimal energy consumption, efficiency, and performance. If you have poorly designed or installed ductwork, consider replacing it. Improper installation or design is among the leading causes of energy loss. Even if the size of the HVAC equipment fits your home, incorrect ductwork installation or design makes optimal efficiency and overall home comfort nearly impossible. If you’re noticing hot and cold spots in your home or reduced indoor comfort, have a technician inspect your ductwork.
8. New HVAC System
When replacing your HVAC system, you may also decide to replace the ductwork. They’re likely the same age. Notwithstanding, the old ductwork might be incompatible with the modern standards for HVAC systems. Have your ductwork checked out when you’re getting the HVAC system replaced.
Rely on the Ductwork Replacement Experts
If you’re familiar with any of the signs listed above, call Air Tech of Central Florida today. With over three decades of experience in the industry, we take pride in providing a wide range of services, including heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and remodeling services in Longwood, FL, and nearby areas. Our experts are highly trained and fully licensed to diagnose your problem and to offer you a long-lasting solution. We’re here to ensure that your HVAC system keeps you comfortable all year round. Call us today to request a service.
Author Bio:
Luigi Ferraro
Specializing in residential and commercial HVAC services, Air Tech offers a wide range of solutions to meet the heating and cooling needs of their customers. Their team of skilled technicians is trained to handle the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems with expertise and precision.
The post 8 Signs It’s Time for Air Duct Replacement appeared first on Air Tech of Centra Florida.