How to Find What’s Damaging Your Air Ducts

Do you know how to find what’s been damaging your air ducts? When cool air blows out of our air vents we generally give little thought to the complex ductwork system that delivered it. That’s because air ducts stay hidden in the attics and ceilings of our home and offices, where they are essentially out of sight and out of mind. But just because ducts stay concealed in these spaces doesn’t mean they are completely safe. Damage can occur at any time. And when it does, it not only restricts airflow through your home but can result in higher energy bills and the need for costly repairs as well.

Fortunately, you can help keep your ducts safe by knowing what poses a threat. Let the HVAC experts at A+ Air Conditioning and Refrigeration in Gainesville, Fla, tell you more about what might be damaging your air ducts.

Need Help with Damaged Air Ducts Now?
Contact or Call 352-608-5019 A+ Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.

Top 4 Causes of Ductwork Damage

Your air ducts interact with both the indoor and outdoor components of your air conditioner, making them susceptible to harmful elements from both sides of the wall. Here’s a look at some the most common causes of air duct damage:

1. Debris

A little dust isn’t going to hurt, but if enough debris builds up in your ductwork to cause a clog, that’s a different story. A clog in an air duct may block airflow into certain parts of a building, making your home or business less comfortable and forcing your air conditioner to use more energy. Denser debris, like leaves and twigs, may also cause physical damage to your ducts and the other parts of your air conditioner that it reaches.

2. Animals

Some critters, like mice, squirrels and other small rodents, may find your ductwork a suitable home. More likely, however, an animal living in your ducts is stuck and looking for a way out. That means they’re going to attempt to chew through your ducts, leaving holes that allow air to escape. When animals get into your ducts, it not only poses a risk of damage but of compromises air quality as well!

3. Age and Wear

Your air conditioner is a tough piece of equipment, but hard work over the years takes its toll. If your ducts are getting up there in age, it may be time to have them replaced. Older ducts with holes and splits simply will not work as efficiently as a new set will.

4. Humans

Believe it or not, humans are one of the biggest threats to air ducts there is. Anyone who goes into your attic, be it an electrician, a mover, the cable guy or even you, may be a threat to your ductwork. If it’s necessary to have someone other than an AC professional near your ducts, be sure they are exercising extreme caution.

Is Air Duct Cleaning Worth It?

To find out if ductwork cleaning is worth the cost and time read our blog: Air Duct Cleaning — Is it Worth The Time and Cost?

How to Know When You Need Air Duct Cleaning

To learn when the right time to clean your ductwork read our blog What You Need to Know About Air Duct Cleaning.

How to Keep Your Air Ducts Maintained

Your ductwork is fragile and even minor damage can cause your AC to run less efficiently. So, when it comes to the maintenance, cleaning and repair of your ductwork, it’s best to leave things to the professionals. For all your ductwork needs, trust the experienced technicians at A Plus Air Conditioning and Refrigeration in Gainesville, Fla. We serve most of North Central Florida so contact us today if you need help finding what’s damaging your air ducts, or any other HVAC or refrigeration issue.