When it comes to HVAC systems, most homeowners don’t put much thought into their ductwork. It’s not surprising—although it’s responsible for moving air throughout your home and keeping you comfortable, the ducts are hidden away in the walls, ceilings, floors, and crawlspaces.
However, if you want your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible, it’s important to put some attention on the “V”—for ventilation—in HVAC!
Damaged Ductwork
If your ventilation system is old or it wasn’t installed properly, it may be damaged. Vibrations or improperly installed connections can cause your ductwork to become loose or even collapse, inhibiting the airflow. If the lining begins to pull away, this can create a more significant blockage and cause your HVAC system to work overtime.
Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to cracks, leaks, and corrosion; damage can also be caused by renovations or pests. If left for too long, the damage will worsen and may eventually cause leaks and blockages. Defects in the ductwork, like sharp bends or dents in the material, can also cause airflow problems that reduce the overall efficiency of your system.
The bottom line is that the harder your system has to work to compensate for blockages or air leaks, the less efficient it will be. It’s also likely using more energy to heat or cool the air—which also leads to higher energy bills. If your ductwork is over 10 years old, we recommend scheduling an inspection.
Improperly Sized Ductwork
If your system has always been noisy or became noisy soon after installation, the ducts are likely improperly sized. When the ducts are too large, it causes low airflow. You may find that the temperatures throughout your house are uneven. Ducts that are too small will cause noise from restricted airflow.
It’s common for ducts to make some noise as your system moves air through them and the temperatures fluctuate, but it shouldn’t be very noticeable. Like damaged ducts, improper ductwork size or installation can put a dent in your efficiency—and your wallet. Your HVAC system will struggle to keep your home comfortable and, as a result, add more wear and tear to the motors, and compressors. This can lead to a more frequent repair cycle or the need for a premature replacement.
Dirty Ductwork
Dirty, dusty, or moldy ductwork can cause the air filters to clog up more quickly, increasing airflow resistance and making the system work harder. It can also compromise some of the system’s internal components, resulting in breakdowns and repairs. Keeping the ducts clean will improve performance, efficiency, and longevity while also improving your indoor air quality.
Is it Time to Schedule Service for Your Ductwork?
Whether your ventilation system wasn’t installed correctly or it’s started to degrade over time, regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your system is running at its most efficient while keeping energy and repair costs low.
In addition to ductwork repairs and maintenance, we also offer air quality systems to keep your indoor air quality high, including air purification systems that can be added to any existing HVAC system, air filtration add-ons, and germicidal lights. Improve your comfort, reduce energy bills and the need for repairs, and improve the longevity of your system today by calling PECO Heating & Cooling at (864) 639-2424!
