A home’s HVAC system is a lifeline of comfort, churning out warm air in winter and cool breeze in summer. If you’ve noticed a consistent spike in your energy bills or some rooms feeling warmer or colder than others, your ductwork might be to blame. Here are 6 signs that point to leaky air ducts and the remedies.
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1. You Witness a Sudden Surge in Energy Bills
Your HVAC system works hard to maintain a consistent internal temperature. When your air ducts have leaks, your system has to work even harder to overcompensate for the lost air, leading to increased energy consumption.
The first step is to conduct a visual inspection of your ductwork, looking for any visible holes, gaps, or separations. For leaks in wide-open exposed ducts, you can patch them with foil tape or mastic sealant. Check out Colorado Springs HVAC company to learn more about heating duct repair.
2. Certain Rooms Remain Uncomfortably Hot or Cold
You’ve set the thermostat, but some rooms never seem to get the memo. This uneven cooling or heating can be a sign that conditioned air is escaping before reaching its destination.
Balancing your HVAC system can help redirect airflow to problem rooms. Additionally, servicing or replacing any damaged or improperly installed dampers within your ductwork can restore the correct air distribution.
3. You Have Excessive Dust Throughout the Home
Leaky ducts don’t just release air; they can also draw in contaminants, such as dust and insulation particles, that then circulate into your home. If you’re constantly battling a layer of dust on your furniture and cooling registers, it’s time to investigate your ducts.
An air purifier can help minimize the spread of dust. In the long term, sealing your air ducts can drastically reduce the amount of dust entering your system and, consequently, your living spaces.
4. You Notice Musty or Moldy Smells
Moisture from leaks can lead to mold in your ducts or even in the structure of your home. Mold not only smells unpleasant but can also affect your indoor air quality and exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues.
Find and repair the source of the leaks, then clean your ducts thoroughly. Dehumidifiers can also help maintain a drier environment that’s inhospitable to mold growth.
5. Your Ductwork Is in a State of Disrepair
If your ducts are kinked, tangled, sagging, or have come apart at the seams, it’s a clear indication that they need attention. Poorly installed or damaged ducts are more likely to have leaks and can greatly hinder your system’s efficiency.
For small physical damages, you can often reconnect or repair the ducts yourself with the right materials and tools. Larger issues may require professional ductwork installation or repairs.
6. The System Seems Noisier Than Usual
More leaks mean more resistance to airflow, which can result in higher pressure levels within your system. This increase in pressure can cause your HVAC system to become noisier than it would be with properly sealed ducts.
By addressing the leaks in your ducts, you’ll help stabilize the air pressure and reduce the racket. Regular maintenance of your system can also prevent future problems, keeping everything running quietly and efficiently.
Be Aware of These Leaky Air Ducts Signs
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of leaky air ducts in your home. If you notice any of these signs, be sure to take action and contact a professional to fix the issue. Don’t wait until it’s too late, protect your home by addressing issues today.
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