Posted Mon, Dec 19, 2022
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How to Know if Air Ducts Need Repair or Replacement
This blog post discusses the importance of air ducts for the HVAC system and how to know if they need repair or replacement. Faulty air ducts can lead to a sudden increase in energy bills and eventually even cause the entire HVAC system to break down. Keeping the air ducts clean and doing routine maintenance can go a long way to improving the longevity of the air ducts.
The material and age of the air ducts and how frequently the air filter gets changed are also factors that impact the efficiency of the home’s ductwork. Homeowners should change the home’s air filter at least every three months to help prevent a buildup of dust in the air ducts. Installing new air ducts will improve the HVAC system’s efficiency and the home’s indoor air quality.
Signs of Faulty Air Ducts
Homeowners should be on the lookout for warning signs there could be something wrong with their ductwork. Sometimes rodents or insects like to make themselves at home in the ductwork, leading to foul smells and strange noises. Pests can chew holes in the ductwork, build nests, and leave droppings behind.
Strange smells coming from the ductwork could also be from mold or mildew. A leak or some other source of moisture in the air ducts could create the perfect environment for mold to flourish. Inhaling mold particles can be devastating for human health, so it is crucial to act immediately when these warning signs are noticed.
Airflow issues in the air ducts are another sign that could be from a pressure imbalance in the system or a leak in the ducts. Often, a sudden increase in energy bills is one of the first signs homeowners notice that indicates something is wrong. Monitoring energy usage can help homeowners to catch and resolve problems early.
Benefits of Air Duct Replacement
Replacing faulty air ducts has many benefits. Improving the airflow helps to keep energy bills low because the heating and cooling system does not have to work as hard. The air can lose a large percentage of its temperature as it journeys through the ducts. Having new ductwork can improve the overall performance of the HVAC system. New air ducts are a gift that just keeps giving as the energy savings add up each month.
Quieter performance is another thing that homeowners can be grateful for when installing new ductwork. One warning sign that it is time to replace air ducts is if the old ductwork starts making loud banging noises in the walls. New air ducts circulate cleaner air and help regulate the temperature more efficiently. Using less energy is good for homeowners’ wallets and the environment.
Professional Air Duct Repair Methods
Homeowners should consult with a trusted local HVAC company whenever they notice warning signs of a problem. It requires a fully licensed and insured professional to install and repair air ducts safely. HVAC professionals have multiple methods that they can use to clean and repair ductwork.
Leaky ductwork can be sealed using a special type of tape called aluminum foil tape. Regular duct tape should not be used as it can cause a fire. Duct sealing tape is designed to be easily applied to leaky ductwork. There is also a liquid sealant that can be painted onto the ducts to close up leaks. However, the first step to fixing faulty air ducts is having a professional inspect the ducts and find the source of the problem.
About Star Air Conditioning & Heating
Star Air Conditioning & Heating is a veteran-owned and operated company that has been serving Kissimmee, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 15 years. They provide 24/7 emergency response, easy financing, and a beneficial membership plan. Call them today for air duct cleaning and repair services in Kissimmee, FL.