An HVAC system’s ductwork is typically hidden in ceilings, walls, attics, and basements. You don’t usually see air ducts, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t problems. Leaky ducts can lose 30% or more of the conditioned air distributed throughout your home (according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)).¹ The results can range from reduced HVAC efficiency to poor indoor air quality. But sealing air ducts can resolve these issues; here are the most common signs for duct sealing services you need to look out for.
Temperature Variations Throughout Your Home
If you walk from one room to another and the temperature is significantly warmer or cooler, the air isn’t being distributed properly through your duct system. You might find yourself turning down the temperature when in one area. On the other side of the house, you may need to turn up the thermostat. It’s time to have your ductwork inspected and probably sealed.
You’re Paying More for Electricity
A higher utility bill is one of the leading signs of an air duct problem. If conditioned air is escaping, your HVAC unit will work harder and use more electricity to deliver heated or cooled air to match the thermostat setting. Leaky ducts can also let outdoor air in; the difference is most noticeable on a hot summer day or frigid winter night. The impact can be almost as bad as having your windows always open.
Rooms Never Get Comfortable
Stuffy rooms are one of the top signs for duct sealing services to watch out for. Rooms in your home may never get comfortable, no matter how many times you reset the thermostat. Opening a window, turning on a fan, or using candles or diffusers may not help either. Air duct sealing may be the only way to improve circulation and eliminate stuffiness.
Air Vents Are Noisy
Air escaping from a hole, tear, or loose connection can create noise. Poor sealing creates a pressure vacuum. As a result, you may hear whistling, hissing, banging, rattling, and other unsettling sounds that are most noticeable when your HVAC unit is running. A leak or other cause of noise can cause serious damage to the system, so don’t delay calling a professional.
Odors Are Present When the AC/Furnace Is Running
If there’s a duct leak, not only can air escape from your home. Any odor near your home can find its way indoors, which can cause a variety of issues. Leaky ducts can also transport odors from other parts of your home; for example, if kitchen odors reach a bedroom, it’s a sign for duct sealing services.
Vents Are Drafty When Your HVAC Unit Is Off
If your AC or heater is turned off, yet you feel air blowing from the vents, the draft may be coming from a leaky duct. An issue with insulation or the construction of your home is another possibility. The problem will only get worse. It can lead to heating or cooling issues and reduced comfort in your home.
Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Musty odors can be a sign of mold or pest infestation in your ducts. Moisture and chemical byproducts from appliances can circulate if you have a duct sealing issue. Signs of poor indoor air quality include eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, sneezing, nausea, headache, and shortness of breath.
Interior Doors Move on Their Own
There’s a simple test you can do to check for duct sealing problems. Start by closing exterior doors and windows and then close all interior doors. Turn on the central air handler. Next, open interior doors but leave them ajar. Check them again soon after; if they start to open further on their own, a circulation issue originating from poorly sealed ducts may be present.
Call Waldrop About Signs for Duct Sealing Services
If you notice any of these signs, or your ductwork is over ten years old (in which case wear and tear may cause small holes to develop), it’s time for a professional inspection. Waldrop Plumbing – Heating – Air employs certified technicians who provide duct sealing for residents throughout Greenville and Spartanburg Counties. Schedule service by calling (864) 536-0887 today.
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