Is it Time to Replace Your Air Ducts? Signs You May Be Missing

Air ducts are a commonly overlooked component of residential AC systems. The hidden placement of these essential components, which shuttle conditioned air throughout your home to keep it comfortable, results in them being frequently forgotten when it comes to maintenance and repairs. How can you tell if your air ducts are ailing?

Signs It is Time to Replace Your Air Ducts 

• Age of ductwork
  AC ducts last about 10 years, on average. However, like other air conditioning components, they are also susceptible to wear and tear. Over time seals can deteriorate and joints can wear, affecting HVAC performance.
• Noisy operation
  Noisy ducts often indicate damage or obstruction and the need for repair or replacement.
• Poor airflow or uneven temperatures
  Damaged, dirty, or clogged ductwork can cause poor airflow, uneven temperatures, and an uncomfortable home. If you are experiencing hot and cold spots, schedule a ductwork inspection.
• AC struggles to maintain temperature
  If your air conditioning system is struggling to cool your home, and you’ve already tried changing your air filter to improve performance, it may be wise to have your ducts inspected and tested.
• High energy bills
  If your worn ducts are causing conditioned air to leak into uninsulated attic and crawlspaces, it will force your system to work harder to maintain temperature in your home, raising energy costs.
• Ductwork damage
  Dents and punctures can dramatically affect airflow and subsequently the effectiveness of your cooling system. If you can visibly see such damage, it’s a good idea to have the damage assessed by a heating and cooling pro. They will have the expertise to determine whether repair or complete replacement is the best way to handle the damage.
• Musty odors
  Any time your smell musty odors coming from your ductwork, this is a cause for concern and immediate attention. If your ductwork is moldy, every time your system runs it will distribute mold spores and musty odors, negatively impacting indoor air quality throughout your home. This could exacerbate asthma and allergies and potentially cause serious health issues. In this instance, though duct cleaning may help, complete duct replacement is a better solution.
• Improper design/poor installation
  Ductwork must be carefully designed and strategically placed to ensure optimal cooling performance throughout your home, as well as to preserve the lifespan of your HVAC unit. If the ductwork in your home was improperly designed or installed, replacement is a must. Even if your system is brand new, poorly constructed ductwork makes an efficient system and comfortable home difficult to achieve. This issue is a leading cost of energy loss in homes nationwide.

Don’t let your ductwork turn to dust. Keep things clean and sealed with the help of H & H Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us to schedule a duct inspection today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/is-it-time-to-replace-your-air-ducts-signs-you-may-be-missing/