When it comes to keeping up with the maintenance of HVAC systems, many people don’t even stop to consider how important it is to include air ducts in that process. Over time, your duct system can develop cracks or holes, and these can significantly impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. In fact, a flawed duct system can account for up to 35% of your heating and cooling costs being lost through the ductwork. On top of the financial repercussions, faulty ductwork can also let allergens, mold spores, and dust particles enter your home.
Do you need duct repair or replacement?
It can be difficult to figure out when you need air duct replacement or repair. This is because many of the telltale signs are difficult to spot with an untrained eye. Failing to act promptly, however, can have large financial repercussions down the line. Here are some of the main signs that you need to schedule an air duct consultation with Five Star Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical to check out the situation.
You notice dirt or dust around your vents
When you start to notice dust, dirt, or grime building up on your air vents, this points to a problem with the air duct filtration system. Your air ducts distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home, but not before cleaning the air with their filtration system. Normally you should be changing your air filters every 6 to 12 months. If, however, you notice that you need to clean up the vents more often than every 6 months, there’s probably an issue that needs to be addressed.
Strange sounds are coming from your ducts
HVAC systems should generally be fairly quiet, so if you notice a lot of strange noises it may indicate a problem. In some cases, these noises can indicate damaged air ducts. Regardless of what you suspect the cause may be, you should have strange HVAC noises investigated immediately.
You smell mold or mildew
If you notice the smell of mold when you turn on your HVAC system, there may be a leak in your air ducts or a problem with duct insulation. Smelling mold from your HVAC system can pose serious health risks for your family and should be looked into immediately.
Your energy bills are higher
If you notice that you’ve been paying a lot more for your energy bills than you normally do, your air ducts might be to blame. Over time, air ducts can develop holes or cracks that allow your heated or cooled air to seep through, costing you money and forcing your system to work even harder.