When is Air Duct Repair Necessary?
The air conditioner is crucial to home comfort during spring and summer. Before air is distributed around the home, it must pass through a ductwork system. Since ductwork is the first stop for conditioned air, it must be in perfect working order to deliver the air clean and cool. When ductwork has been damaged, it can be uncomfortable and expensive.
This summer, take a moment to look for the signs that the ductwork isn’t keeping up with the AC usage. This article from local professionals is to help homeowners stay comfortable in the summer's stifling temperatures.
Signs That Air Ducts Have Been Damaged
Air ducts are designed to last for a long time, depending on the system used. In most homes, sheet metal ducts are the standard. While an air conditioner may last around 15-20 years, ductwork has a shorter lifespan of 10-15 years on average. But, eventually, problems may occur. Problems with ductwork will manifest with signs like:
- Strange odors, most commonly described as musty or dank
- Inadequate airflow coming from multiple ducts
- Higher energy bills
- Longer cooling cycles
- Strange noises
When problems like these crop up, a homeowner can hire a professional to inspect ductwork, or they can venture into the attic or crawl space to check things out themselves. Look for missing insulation or misshapen ducts as giveaways that duct repair or replacement is needed.
Advantages of Air Duct Replacement
Upgrading ductwork to sheet metal ducting is one of the smarter choices a homeowner can make. Even if sheet metal ducts are in place, after about 30 years, homeowners should consider air duct replacement due to wear and tear or problems with rust and corrosion. Air duct replacement is a great choice in homes with low-quality air and always struggling with humidity issues.
New ductwork isn’t just a sunk cost. It carries with it advantages that can save money and contribute to comfort. Some of the reasons to replace ductwork are:
- Sheet metal ducts can be easily cleaned, leading to cleaner air and a cleaner home
- New ducts are more energy-efficient, so they save money on cooling bills
- New ducts circulate air more effectively, increasing comfort and further reducing bills
- Quieter operation due to better-fitting parts
How Professionals Perform Air Duct Repair
Air duct repair needs a professional’s touch to get it right. Replacing old ductwork improperly can lead to comfort issues and raise cooling costs. When a professional is called for air duct repair, they will start by inspecting the attic or crawl space ductwork to look for damage.
Damaged ductwork can be removed and replaced piece by piece, depending on how bad certain sections are. If only one part of the duct is damaged, they may only remove and replace that one part and keep the rest of the ductwork that has no problems. By removing insulation and pulling out crushed or rusted pieces of ductwork, HVAC professionals can get ductwork back up to code in no time.
About LenAire, Inc.
LenAire, Inc. is a locally-owned and operated company with over 30 years of experience serving its neighbors in Bossier City, LA, and the surrounding areas. They offer hassle-free scheduling, easy financing, and free second opinions. Call them today for air conditioning services in Bossier City, LA.
