Signs an Air Duct System Needs to Be Sealed
Air ducts are a vital air conditioning and heating system component that allows air to circulate through the home.
Air ducts are a vital air conditioning and heating system component that allows air to circulate through the home. However, they can also allow air to escape when holes appear in the ductwork. Therefore, sealing the air duct system will minimize the loss of treated air.
Since homeowners can't easily access the air ducts, they often fail to spot areas of damage responsible for the air leak. Fortunately, other signs can indicate that their air duct system needs to be sealed. Please keep reading to learn more.
Excess dust
Unusual dust buildup is one of the most common indicators of duct issues. Homeowners should take this issue seriously if they have a dusting or cleaning routine. If the excess dust doesn't result from neglect, the dust particles probably keep coming into the home through holes in the ductwork.
Hot or cold spots
Sometimes, hot or cold spots appear inside a room, regardless of how well the homeowners insulate the area or what temperature they set on the thermostat. These spots typically indicate an airflow issue.
Various factors can cause these issues. Most commonly, they come from wrong duct sizes, inefficient designs, or leaks in the system.
Homeowners should hire a professional to inspect the ducts and determine the cause of the airflow problems. The air duct system should be sealed immediately if a leak is the culprit.
Higher energy bills
Even smaller holes in the ductwork can cause energy bills to rise over time. Unfortunately, homeowners usually only realize how much money they've wasted on energy once the air ducts get sealed.
Compare the heating and cooling bills against the same period from the previous year. If there's a significant change, the duct may have sprung a leak and needs repairs.
Health issues
Air gaps in the ductwork can impact the household's health in several ways.
If they suffer from allergies, they might notice their symptoms worsening. However, even with no allergies, the dust and mold these leaky air ducts bring into the home can impact the residents' health. They can also start getting sick more often due to the uncontrolled spread of bacteria and viruses throughout the house.
Mold growth
Areas of mold growth expanding through the home can indicate a potential leak in the air ducts. If mold appears, it typically means that the spores have traveled from another area of the house through a leak, most frequently the basement. Since mold represents a severe health hazard, homeowners should determine its source and resolve it immediately.
Contact a professional
Homeowners who notice these signs should contact a professional air conditioning and heating system team to inspect their ducts. If the inspection finds leaks or pinpoints any risk areas, the service can seal the ductwork to restore and maintain its functionality.
Above and Beyond Air Conditioning & Heating is a San Antonio residential and commercial heating and air conditioning company dedicated to providing the highest level of home comfort. Call us today at 210-897-8658.
