Ductwork is an integral component of any central HVAC system. If it’s in good condition, it promotes good air quality and distributes cooling and heating evenly throughout your home. If it isn’t, it can lead to a wide range of issues that will cost you comfort and money. Let’s explore the indications that there’s something wrong with your ducts.
1. Ductwork Age
There’s a misconception that metal ducts will last forever. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t schedule regular duct inspections and never get feedback on their condition. It’s one reason we recommend an annual inspection alongside your spring or fall tune-up.
A duct network can last between 20 and 25 years with regular maintenance. If you’re on your third HVAC system replacement, it’s almost certainly time to install new ducts. Many ducts that don’t receive regular maintenance require replacing in 10 to 15 years. If you don’t schedule regular inspections, at least have our installer assess them when you put in new HVAC equipment.
2. Rising Energy Consumption
A common issue with ducts is air leakage. This is where cooled and warmed air leaks out of the ducts, such as into the attic. Even with new ducts, there’s some leakage, as much as 5%. That leakage worsens over time without maintenance. The Department of Energy estimates that air leakage in the average U.S. home is between 20% and 40%. The more air a system loses, the more it must run. That means that air conditioners and heat pumps will use a lot more electricity. It also means that furnaces will burn extra fuel.
3. An Uncomfortable Home
Air leakage creates other problems, such as reduced air pressure in your ducts. With proper air pressure, all the heated and cooled air flows into your home through your vents evenly. When the air pressure is too low, the airflow will be weak and uneven. How this manifests in your home will depend on its size and layout. In two-story homes, you’ll often experience an upper floor that’s more than 2 degrees higher than the lower floor. In all types of homes, you can also experience cold spots and warm spots in various rooms.
4. Long Cycling
An HVAC cycle reflects how often and long a system runs. This varies based on a range of factors. That said, the typical cycle is about 10 minutes several times per hour. If you notice your system running for periods longer than 15 minutes, that’s what we call long cycling. The longer cycle drives up your costs and causes wear and tear that may shorten the equipment’s life. It’s important to note that air leakage is just one cause of long cycling. With ACs and heat pumps, it can also be a problem with the refrigerant system or condenser pump.
5. Loud Noises From Your Ducts
Modern central air conditioning systems are virtually silent. If you hear your ducts rumbling when the cooling or heating is on, there’s likely a problem with your ducts. You may have mounting equipment that has loosened or failed altogether. It could also be air leakage. If enough air passes through the openings, this causes the ducts to vibrate. A blower set to too high a speed can cause these vibrations and sounds as well.
6. Poor Indoor Air Quality
Air leakage isn’t simply a loss of air. It’s an exchange. If your ducts are in your attic, they experience an influx of hot and humid air during the spring and summer months. In both seasons, allergens and other impurities may be a serious concern. When your air kicks on, you may notice a brief smell. However, it should be fleeting and not unpleasant. If you notice a mildew smell, that means there’s moisture in your ducts, and you may need to replace them.
Do You Need Ductwork Replacement in Texas?
If you live in South Central Texas and would like to replace your home’s ductwork, GVEC Air Conditioning & Heating can help. Our HVAC company has locations in Cuero, Gonzales, La Vernia, Schertz, and Seguin. We provide service to the surrounding areas as well. We serve both residential and commercial clients. We install, maintain, and repair ductless mini-splits, air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps, including hybrid heating setups.
Our service plans can help you save money while keeping your equipment serviced on schedule. We’re the team to trust for your smart thermostat installation, calibration, and programming. We also have an indoor air quality team that specializes in whole-home air purifiers and other IAQ accessories. To schedule an appointment, call us today, or contact us online.
