Many homeowners can take centralized air for granted. As long as the unit turns on and runs, all is well, right? Well, pay attention to your HVAC system. Things like odd sounds or smells are signs that your ductwork may be in need of repair or replacement. But, you can trust Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing to help you understand these signs.
Read on to learn more about the signs of air duct damage from the top ductwork specialists in Houston.
Signs of Pests, Dust and Dirt Around Vents
Dust, allergens, and other particulates enter your HVAC system and collect on a filter. So, if your filter isn’t cleaned on a regular basis, debris can build up in the system and make your air ducts dirty, too. A dirty HVAC system can worsen your home’s indoor air quality and impact your family’s health.
If you need to replace your air filter more than every few months, you might have damaged air ducts. Tears and holes in your ductwork allow dirt and pests to enter your system. Pay attention to the space around your vents and take note if you see a build-up of dust, dead insects or a foul smell.
Contact an HVAC professional to repair damaged ductwork.
Higher Energy Bills
Homeowners can expect a spike in their utility costs during certain times of the year. For Houston residents, that time is usually in the summer. Higher energy bills are common when the outside temperatures soar. Still, keep an eye on your bills nonetheless.
If you notice your energy costs are rising but you haven’t changed your habits, this may be a sign of something amiss. Damaged or incorrectly installed ductwork could be releasing air from your HVAC system. Damage can force your unit to use more energy to keep up with demand. Schedule an air duct inspection if you suspect there is damage to your system.
Poor Air Flow and Uneven Temperatures
There could be a handful of different reasons your home experiences low airflow. As mentioned, your ducts could be dirty and the build-up is causing blockages. Torn or damaged ducts force air out of the system instead of flowing through your vents. The problem could be your vents are the wrong size or there are too few return vents. An HVAC professional can solve all these issues.
Some homeowners experience uneven temperatures in their homes. They have rooms that never seem to heat up or cool down like the rest of the space. This is a tell-tale sign of compromised ductwork. Uneven temperatures may be your wake-up call that it’s time to invest in new air duct installation.
Old Ductwork
One of the most common problems with HVAC systems is old ductwork. Over time, everything in your home will need an upgrade or replacement. Your ductwork is no exception. Most ductwork lasts a little over a decade, with 15 years on the long end. Over time, daily use wears your system down, resulting in tears, breaks and even duct collapse.
When weighing the costs of duct repair, factor in the age of your ductwork. If it is over ten years old, it may be more cost-effective to invest in new installation instead of repairs.
Air Duct Repair in Houston
Old, dirty or damaged air ducts can have a negative impact on your household. Avoid issues like poor air quality, higher energy bills and ineffective airflow. Keep in mind the age of your ducts, change your air filter and pay attention to the signs of duct damage.
When it’s time to repair or install the ductwork in your home, trust Air Tech to get the job done right. With over 35 years of service, we are the top ductwork specialists in Houston.
Contact us today!
