Ductwork 4

When faced with the dilemma to clean or replace your air ducts, cleaning may seem to be the better option because it’s cheaper and more convenient. However, certain situations will require you to replace your ducts. Failing to do so could reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and your home’s indoor air quality. Here are the telltale signs it’s time to replace your ductwork.

Holes or Tears

Air ducts are meant to provide a solid barrier that prevents air from leaking and losing its quality and temperature. Problems such as cracks, holes, tears, deteriorating duct tape and disconnected spans will prevent them from providing such a barrier. Consequently, you’ll lose air and money to high energy bills. Check for these problems in exposed ducts in areas such as attics and crawl spaces.

Uneven Temperatures

A proper air delivery system should provide uniform temperatures throughout your home. Visit all rooms when your heating or cooling system is running and take note of the temperatures. If they are inconsistent, you may be having eroding ducts that need replacement.

Schedule a Blower Test

If you come across one or more of these signs, you should hire an HVAC contractor to conduct a duct blower test. The test will accurately determine whether your ducts should be replaced. It will establish where leaks are occurring and how much air leaks out of your ducts in relation to the total airflow through them.

No matter how energy efficient your furnace and air conditioner is, you won’t get their full benefits if your ducts are defective or damaged. Ensure that you replace them promptly. For more information on replacing your ductwork, contact us at Stack Heating & Cooling. We’ve been serving the greater Cleveland area homeowners since 1976.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Cleveland, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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