6 Signs Homeowners Should Hire Air Duct Services Near Me
Air Duct Services Near Me – An HVAC system is only as functional as the hidden components that make it work— especially the air ducts! It’s best to think of the HVAC system as the heart pumping and the ducts as the blood vessels that help make the system function. Most homeowners are actually shocked to learn that their HVAC system loses 30% efficiency through improper installation, poor maintenance, or leaks. From reduced performance and higher energy bills to indoor air pollution, dysfunctional HVAC ductwork can wreak havoc on a home.
As air duct replacement can cost a significant amount of money, it’s crucial for homeowners to consider whether their system needs the upgrade. Older or failing ducts are beyond salvaging, but here are 6 common signs that an air duct needs prompt replacement by professional contractors:
1. If an HVAC system starts to make a whistling sound when in operation, it points to damaged ducts or debris buildup. The rattling and whistling noises are a result of the ducts not having the ability to accommodate the amount of air being pushed by the HVAC system. Sometimes, just a poorly installed system can also cause this problem as the pressure buildup makes it hard for air to pass through properly. From raising energy bills to full on damage to the system, not getting this problem taken care of is costly!
2. Another common symptom of a problem with air ducts is having hot or cold zones in a home. A leaking or improperly sized duct may cause the temperature fluctuations to occur. The proper sizing and designing of ductwork is necessary in order to eliminate these drastic temperature drops or increases.
3. Clogged or damaged ductwork can directly translate to wasted energy and higher monthly bills. Higher energy bills point to significant problems with missing attic insulation or cracks/holes in the existing ductwork. Whatever the reason for the malfunction, rising energy costs are never a good sign! It’s crucial to make the necessary repairs to the ducts in the home in order to preserve energy efficiency and make the system easier to use.
4. Usually, ductwork should get replaced approximately every 15 years. That means homeowners should make note of when their ducts were last replaced and schedule the necessary replacement as needed. Having the same ductwork in place for over the recommended period of time may make it easier for design flaws to surface within the system. Older ductwork is also at risk for having crushed or improperly pieced sections as well as not having the necessary modern insulation to keep temperatures moderated. It’s not uncommon to notice restricted airflow problems surfacing as early as the ten year mark.
5. Unpleasant smells and musty odors are yet another obvious symptom that the ductwork needs attention in the home. Sometimes, these odors can signify foreign debris and dust that has caked onto the inside of the ducts over the years. Mold and mildew smells are another common occurrence if the ductwork is leaking in some manner. Having mold or other household allergens present in the ductwork doesn’t just make a homeowner more susceptible to lung problems, but can cause significant allergies and a number of other conditions in due time.
6. Though not as common as the other problems discussed, rodents or other pests in the ductwork are a telltale sign that there are leaks, holes, or missing sections altogether. Bugs and rodents have the innate ability to enter a home through the ductwork, especially if it isn’t properly insulated or sealed off against pests. From fecal matter to urine, pests inside of ductwork can cause illnesses and allergies to worsen in virtually no time while also making homeowners feel uncomfortable in their own homes.
The moment some or all of the above signs manifest themselves within ductwork, if’s crucial to reach out to professionals such as Eco Choice to help with the replacement process. From diagnosing the problem to providing a timely solution to the issue at hand, homeowners can rest assured that they’re in good hands! Homeowners can also request a free pricing estimate for ductwork to help them budget accordingly for their needs. Replacing ducts that are anywhere from 10 to 15 years of age can help improve the functionality and efficiency of an HVAC system.