3 Common Signs of BAD Ductwork
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your heating and cooling system? If the answer is your furnace or AC unit, you’re in the same group as most other people. However, there’s one other important part of the system you should keep in mind: your air ducts.
The air ducts are a big deal because they transport the air from your heating and cooling system to your home. As they’re nearing the end of their lifespan, they’re more likely to become compromised in one way or another. This is a sign that you should contact a professional attic dust service for an inspection. Here are three signs of ductwork that requires fixing.
Inconsistent Temperatures
Does one of your rooms struggle to reach the temperature you’ve set on your thermostat? If so, there’s a decent chance you’re dealing with poor ductwork. For example, your grilles or air ducts may be the wrong size, which can lead to restricted airflow. Other times, the vents may not be able to maintain the air pressure necessary to get to the intended interior space.
Other common indicators of poorly sized or blocked vents include loud airflow or strange noises coming from the air duct system. If you notice these warning signs, consider performing an attic dust inspection to determine the best way to fix your system.
Poor Air Quality
A reduction in overall air quality is another sure-fire indicator of a compromised air duct system. If there’s an excessive buildup of dirt in the ducts or if the connections are faulty, dust will have a much easier time of getting into your home.
Poor air quality can also happen due to leaks in your system. Most of the time, this will result in unwanted odors blowing into your home. This is particularly noticeable if you store certain chemicals in your basement or close to your furnace. Potential problem chemicals include fertilizers, paint thinners, and similar harsh solutions.
Leaky Ducts
Speaking of leaks, they may also occur in the ducts themselves. They tend to occur in holes and connections between ducts, causing your HVAC system to work harder. Air ducts with poor connections are more likely to suck in dirty air from the surrounding environment.
You can tell if you have leaky ducts by taking a look at your energy bills. If they seem higher than usual without any major changes in the household, you may be dealing with leaks. Other indicators of leaks include visibly loose ducts and rooms that can’t seem to become fully cooled or heated.