Hansen Super Techs | HVAC, Electrical & Plumbing Mobile AL

11 Reasons to Consider Replacing Your Home’s Ductwork

Oct 5, 2021 | Construction

The ducts are crucial components of the HVAC system that deliver warm and cool air throughout the house. They require maintenance, repairs, and replacements from time to time. The ductwork is usually behind walls, under the floors, or on the ceiling, so many homeowners overlook it. With time, your ductwork will eventually wear down, and when neglected, this wear can affect your HVAC unit’s efficiency. Here are 11 reasons to consider replacing your ductwork. 11 reasons to consider replacing ductwork

1. You Notice Poor Airflow

Unrestricted airflow is essential for the optimal operation of an HVAC unit. When your ductwork gets dirty, damaged, or clogged, it reduces the airflow, which affects the unit’s performance. So, if your HVAC unit stops pushing air as it used to, there might be an issue with the ductwork, and it could be time for a replacement.

2. Your Ducts Are Old

With proper care, ductwork can last several years. However, the joints and seals often wear out, so you may want to have this checked regularly. If there are signs of deterioration, the technician may suggest that you install new ductwork. If you aren’t sure of the age of the ducts, chances are that they are as old as your house.

Even if your ducts seem to work just fine, you need to replace them if your home is several decades old. The installation methods have changed in the last years, and modern ducts are made from more efficient and safer materials. If you fail to upgrade, you might end up wasting money and putting the health of your loved ones at risk.

3. You Detect an Unexplainable Increase in Energy Bills

Improperly installed or damaged ductwork can cause air to seep out. As a result, your HVAC unit will have to work extra hard to meet the desired temperature requirements in your house. This leads to more energy consumption. If your utility bills keep going up for no apparent reason, you could be losing energy through the ductwork. Call a professional to assess the issue. They can repair minor leaks or replace the ducts if more extensive damage exists.

4. You Bought a New HVAC Unit

When you install a new HVAC unit, you may need to replace the ducts. Most likely, the HVAC unit and the ductwork are the same age, so the ducts will require a replacement too. Also, your old ductwork may not be compatible with your new HVAC unit. Keep in mind that incompatible systems can be very inefficient, and you might end up straining your new HVAC unit, causing it to fail sooner than expected.

5. You Have Pest Infestation

Old and damaged ductwork attracts pests. Rodents and bugs can enter the ductwork through tiny holes and can travel to different sections. They can quickly multiply and establish colonies, which will cause more significant problems in the long run.

Keep in mind that pest droppings cause unpleasant smells. They can also spread bacteria and cause health issues. Additionally, these pests can chew through the ductwork and can cause blockages that affect your HVAC system’s efficiency. If you have recently had pest problems in your house, call a professional to remove the bugs and to replace your ductwork.

6. You Notice Poor Indoor Air Quality

Gaps and holes along the ductwork let dust particles, pollen, and other contaminants bypass the HVAC system filter and recirculate throughout your house. You will then begin to notice that your home seems super dusty even after cleaning it regularly.

Poorly connected or insulated ductwork can also cause mold and mildew problems. When warm air travels through cold ducts, the uneven temperature in the ductwork can lead to condensation. With time, mold and mildew begin to grow, and once you turn on your HVAC unit, it circulates a musty smell. This calls for immediate duct replacement, especially if you have family members with compromised immunity. Mold can damage your furniture and building components, and its spores trigger asthma and allergy symptoms.

7. You Notice Uneven Temperatures Between Rooms

If you notice that some rooms are cooler or warmer than others, this can be due to faulty ductwork. A poorly installed or leaky duct may fail to disperse enough air throughout the house, leading to temperature fluctuations in specific areas of your home.

8. Your HVAC Unit Is Noisy

Your HVAC unit should make very little noise while in operation. When you hear a loud rattling sound coming from your unit, it could mean that the ductwork is vibrating too much. Noisy ducts indicate damaged joints, clogs, tears, or disconnected ductwork. If there are holes along the ductwork, you will hear loud whistling noises. When you hear such strange noises, call a technician to check the ductwork, and they may recommend a replacement.

9. You Have Duct Design and Installation Issues

Installing the wrong duct size and design will lower your HVAC system’s efficiency. Undersized ductwork will limit airflow and make optimal comfort nearly impossible. It will also make your HVAC unit work harder. Call a professional HVAC technician to assess the design and installation of your ductwork. If you have incorrect or improperly installed ducts, a professional will replace them to ensure that the system cools and heats your entire space efficiently.

10. You Have Damaged Ducts

Dents, punctures, and tangles in your ductwork can alter the air temperature and flow, which interferes with the effectiveness of your HVAC unit. Something heavy can fall on the ductwork, which might cause it to twist or to develop holes and leaks. The ductwork can also get damaged through natural wear and tear. Inspect the visible parts of your ductwork often, and if you see signs of damage, call a technician so that they can give you expert suggestions. Consider a replacement for ducts with several damaged sections.

11. You’re Planning Major Renovations

You need to inspect and to replace worn-out ducts when you are doing home renovations. Renovations often involve opening walls, which provides you with a great opportunity to check out your ductwork. If you add more rooms, ductwork replacement may also be necessary to ensure that your new spaces receive heated and cooled air. Also, keep in mind that ducts may get damaged during renovation, so it’s important to inspect them after any construction takes place in the home.

Need to Replace Your Air Ducts Today? Call the Experts

If you have reason to suspect that it’s time for new ductwork, call a professional to evaluate the condition of your ducts. While you can quickly repair minor issues, consider ductwork replacement for extensive damage. New ductwork helps support greater efficiency, cleaner air, quieter HVAC operation, increased comfort, improved health, and a prolonged HVAC unit lifespan.

Whenever you need professional assistance with your ductwork, don’t hesitate to contact Hansen Super Techs. Our company specializes in air conditioning, heating, and air quality services. We also offer generators, ductless mini-splits, and commercial HVAC services in Theodore, AL, and the surrounding area. Get in touch with us now to schedule an appointment.