SIGNS YOU NEED AIR DUCT SEALING
Ensure the most efficient HVAC system performance with proper ductwork installation, Maintenance and Repair.
According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, commercial building owners can expect to spend up to 40% of their energy costs on heating and cooling alone.
As you might imagine, the air duct equipment is not only critically important to the energy efficiency of your overall system, but also prone to various problems as well. Whether installed incorrectly in parts, damaged by rodents, or wind, or even your last maintenance guy who might have shifted something without realizing it.
Leaking or broken ductwork is very common, but it often goes undetected for commercial building owners and homeowners alike.
Signs of Leaking, Broken or Poorly Functioning Ducts
If you have any of the following HVAC complaints, you too may have a ductwork problem.
#1. An increase in dust, particulate or otherwise poor air quality in any part of your building.Broken or damaged ductwork could be responsible for sending unfiltered air, dust, and bacteria into your vents and into the lungs of everyone within the building.
#2. Temperature variations throughout your building. Cold or hot spots in certain areas could be from gaps or leaks in the ducts, resulting in inconsistent air flow for parts or all of your building.
#3. Higher than normal utility bills. An open, broken or leaking duct means airflow is compromised, and you’re leaking money as well as heat. Your system may be working far harder than it needs to in order to maintain indoor comfort within your building.
What to Do If You Suspect a Ductwork Issue
Every inch of the ductwork should be inspected, including all seals, and connections with supply registers and your HVAC unit itself. Any part that’s missing or unable to be repaired should obviously be replaced at once. That includes pieces that are bent, dented or are in less than perfect shape.
Sealant should also be utilized to both repair and reseal any areas that have gaps or loose seams where air can escape. Your technician may use screws, metal tape, mastic or all three to do the job. It’s worth pointing out that standard duct tape is not the sealant of choice, in that it can be easily damaged by moisture or excessive dryness. Both conditions cause it to loosen over time.
While broken ductwork doesn’t necessarily make any noise, it’s a problem that in the end will cost you money in lost heating or cooling. Maintain it properly and enjoy your indoor comfort knowing you’re getting the most from your HVAC system.
Need your home’s HVAC ductwork inspected for leaks? Call the experts at Quality Control Air. We’re the name our Southwest Florida neighbors know and trust for all their air conditioning and indoor air needs.
Our team gathered a few resources online to explain even more the benefits of professionally sealed HVAC systems.
https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/duct_sealing/benefits