When to Replace Your Air Ducts
Emily
The ducts and vents of your HVAC system are essential for the proper distribution and circulation of air around your home. They need to be in excellent shape to help maintain the temperature and air quality inside your house. However, as your HVAC ages, your vents will eventually deteriorate, and your system will require air duct replacement. Read on to learn about the signs that indicate it is time to change your air ducts.
Mold
Mold and mildew often thrive in dark and damp spaces. The inside of a damaged air duct creates this ideal environment, so it’s not uncommon to find traces of these fungi in an aging vent. If the duct connections deteriorate, there’s a chance that warm air will leak into a cold vent and cause condensation to form inside. Over time, mold and mildew spores may begin to germinate and grow on its inner walls.
Mold in the air can be a serious health hazard, as extensive exposure to spores can cause severe allergic reactions and respiratory problems, especially if the fungi species produce mycotoxins. So, if you smell any musty or earthy odors coming from your vents, get them checked by an HVAC contractor immediately. You may have to replace all your ducts depending on how extensive your mold and mildew problems are.
Uneven Cooling or Heating
Have you noticed that some rooms are colder or warmer than the other parts of your home? Faulty ductwork can be the reason for your problems. There may be holes in your vents where the cooled or heated air leaks out from the system. As a result, the air isn’t distributed around the home properly, so some rooms become cooler or hotter than others.
Try to measure the temperature in each area of your home. If the readings vary drastically and are quite far from your thermostat setting, you may have extensive air duct problems and need to revamp your system.
Higher Electricity Bills
Problems in your air ducts can cause your HVAC system to function less efficiently. Since the air can leak out of any perforations in the vent walls, your HVAC unit has to work harder to get your home to a certain temperature. It ends up consuming more power, which will result in excessive electricity expenses. So, if you notice that your power bill is a lot higher than usual, there’s a chance that your air ducts are the problem.
Call A Plus Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
Contact A Plus Air Conditioning and Refrigeration in Gainesville if you spot any of these telltale signs that you need air duct replacement. Our professional contractors can help you fix your ductwork and address any other HVAC problems you may have.