Your home’s HVAC system is indispensable; it keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. For the entire system to function efficiently, one of its main components, the ductwork, must be in proper working condition. When something goes wrong, the air ducts are usually overlooked, so homeowners have no clue that a problem exists. If you think something is amiss or have been experiencing issues with your HVAC system, it could be time to check your ductwork. Serious concerns may need to be addressed and diagnosed by an air duct specialist, but for common issues, most homeowners can troubleshoot them on their own. Below we share a few common air duct problems to be aware of.
Dirty Ductwork
Dust, debris, germs, and other contaminants accumulate within your home’s ductwork, so it’s no surprise dirty ducts can cause big problems. Not only do dirty ducts worsen the indoor air quality, but they also obstruct the heated or cooled air from reaching you. Having your ducts routinely inspected and cleaned can help ensure the air you breathe is clean and free of contaminants and keep your HVAC system running efficiently.
Leaks
Leaky ductwork is a common problem that most homeowners may not realize they have. Over time, air ducts get old and degrade, developing holes and cracks. Believe it or not, up to 40% of the air that travels through an HVAC system doesn’t make it to the registers because of these holes and cracks. These damages can be repaired, but if you have a large gap or hole, your ducts may need to be replaced. Clay’s air duct repair or inspection services can alleviate these issues and keep your HVAC system running optimally.
Poorly Sealed Registers
Improperly sealed registers at the duct connection can cause various problems. If the duct isn’t fully closed, air can be distributed into areas it’s not intended for, causing your unit to work overtime. It also allows the entry of insects, critters, and debris into your ductwork and home. Improperly sealed ducts impact energy efficiency and affect your unit’s lifespan.
Inadequate Insulation
Your ductwork should always be sufficiently insulated. Uninsulated ducts let a considerable amount of heat and air escape, which means your unit has to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Inefficient Design
Your ductwork should transfer air from one point to another with the least amount of distance and obstructions. Poor design will result in inefficient heating and cooling and high energy costs. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in this situation except upgrade your system. A ductless system is a good choice and allows homeowners to create “zones” in their homes to save energy and money.
How the Air Duct Specialists at Clay’s Climate Control Can Help
At Clay’s, we ensure your HVAC system operates effectively, including your ductwork. Our trained technicians come to your home, examine your air ducts, and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades to make your system as efficient as possible. If you’re interested in building a new HVAC system, our team is ready to suggest new technologies, like a ductless system, that might be better for your home. Contact us at 609-916-1106 to schedule your appointment today!
