When you think of an HVAC system, images of bulky air conditioners sitting outside of your home most likely come to mind. You might even think about an AC window unit or vents throughout your house. But have you ever considered all of the different components that make up your HVAC system? Some of the most integral parts of an HVAC system are the ducts, which are metal channels that connect your air conditioner to those vents in your bedroom, kitchen, or living room.
It’s essential that these ductworks are always operating efficiently. In fact, 25% of the air in your HVAC system can be lost as a result of ill-fitting or leaking ducts. This can cost you hundreds of wasted dollars every year. And who wants to throw away perfectly good money?
Luckily, a duct replacement can save your HVAC system and your bank account. Here’s everything you need to know about when and why you should replace your ductwork.
Why are HVAC Ducts So Important?
You may overlook your ductworks when it’s time to repair your HVAC system. This is a costly mistake, especially if you have faulty HVAC ducts. These channels pull air from different areas of your home to be cooled or heated before conducting it back to other rooms. If your ducts have holes or are poorly connected, the air pressure is lost. This will make your HVAC system work overtime, and drastically boost the costs of your utility bills.
HVAC ductworks last for about 10 to 15 years and are made from a combination of different materials, including plastic or fiberglass. Down the line, your ducts will suffer from wear and tear. The sooner you notice the signs of duct damage and do something about it, the better. Getting duct replacement will save you a ton of money on repair and electricity costs.
Moreover, your comfort levels will drop if your HVAC ductworks stop efficiently working. Your home will suffer from hot or cold spots in certain rooms. This will make it difficult to sleep and relax, especially in the summer months. Everyone knows that Los Angeles summers can get hot, hot, HOT!
In order to keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape, here are some signs that you need ductworks replacement.
1. A Noisy HVAC System
One of the most obvious signs of poorly operating ducts is a loud HVAC system. While your HVAC will make some noise while working, it shouldn’t sound annoyingly loud.
If you notice strange noises coming from your HVAC system, including loud rattling or vibrating, you may need to replace your ducts. Remember how we said that your HVAC ductworks are made from plastic or fiberglass? If these materials get damaged, you may also notice whistling sounds.
Never ignore a loud HVAC system. Trust us, it’s a tough thing to even do.
2. Higher Energy Bills
If 20% or more of air is escaping through your HVAC ductworks, you’ll notice a sudden jump in your utility bills. This is because when you turn your thermostat up or down to a particular level, the indoor air temperature will get cooler or warmer, but not sufficiently enough. That’s because a lot of air is escaping through the ducts, causing your HVAC system to work inefficiently.
This will lead to higher energy bills.
If you haven’t recently installed a lot of new electronics throughout your home, including laptops or new kitchen appliances, faulty ducts may be to blame for your escalating energy bills.
3. Uneven Cooling or Heating
You may notice that one or more areas of your house are unevenly cold or warm in comparison to the rest of your home. This is caused by bad ducts that aren’t sending enough air to particular parts of your house.
Use an indoor thermostat to verify your suspicions. If the temperature differences are clearly off the scale, contact the HVAC repair technicians at Global Green Solutions right away.
4. A Dusty Home
While it’s nearly impossible to get rid of dust completely, having too much dust in your home could be a sign of damaged HVAC ducts.
Outside dust can seep through the leaks and holes in your ducts and make its way inside your house.
Dust can irritate your upper respiratory system, causing an allergic or asthmatic reaction.
If your home is super dusty, look into replacing your HVAC ductworks now to avoid potential health complications.
5. The Musty Smell of Mold or Mildew
Indoor mold infestations have a very distinct odor. If you notice a musty smell in your home, you may have a mold or mildew problem. Faulty ducts can contribute to your mold infestation. Uneven temperatures caused by bad ducts can cause condensation and high humidity levels, encouraging mold growth.
If you have a mold infestation, contact a mold remediation company immediately. Then call Global Green Solutions to resolve your HVAC duct issues.
6. Pest Problems
Nobody wants their home plagued with uninvited guests, especially the rodent kind. When you have holes in your ducts, mice and insects can easily get into your house. Pests can cause unpleasant odors, make creepy noises in the middle of the night, and even spread bacteria.
On top of that, pests can cause further blockages within your HVAC system.
Keeping Your Ducts in Mint Condition
In order to avoid high utility bills and uncomfortable indoor temperatures, it’s imperative that you keep your ducts in excellent condition. You can promote good duct health by:
- Keeping them clean
- Insulating your HVAC ducts
- Getting professional HVAC ductwork replacement or repair
If you need ductwork replacement, call the pros at Global Green Solutions now! For over a decade, we’ve been the premier choice for Los Angeles residents in need of HVAC repair services.
For a free quote, call (888) 860-4826 now.