Go Back

Have the Air Ducts Reached the End of Their Lives?

Posted on July 8, 2022 by

Signs that Indicate Air Ducts Need To Be Replaced

Even if a home has a top-of-the-line AC unit, the cooler air cannot reach the rooms without ductwork. This means that ensuring the air ducts are in good working order is an important part of HVAC maintenance and repair. Damaged ducts can cause issues with the efficiency of the air conditioning and indoor air quality. A homeowner should not neglect their ducts or take them for granted. Properly working air ducts make for a much more comfortable home.

Symptoms of Damaged or Faulty Air Ductssmell

A homeowner doesn’t necessarily have to go crawling around in the attic to find out if there is an issue with their ducts. Because the system runs through the house, signs throughout the home should be noticeable to even the casual observer. Here are a few examples:
  • Foul Odors: If icky smells come from the vents, this indicates a possible mold or mildew infestation in the ducts. There may also be some kind of pests that have taken up residence in the space. 
  • Unusual Sounds: Whistling or hissing noises can mean punctured or tear ducts. Creaking, scratching, and skittering can also accompany pests.
  • Inconsistent Airflow: If some parts of the home seem to be getting less air than others, this may indicate a problem with the ducts. 
  • Higher Energy Bills: If the utility bill is going up for no obvious reason, there is a problem with the unit’s efficiency. This may be due to a need for duct repair.

Advantages of Air Duct Replacementsave money

If there does seem to be a problem with a home’s ductwork, replacement may seem daunting and expensive. A homeowner should consider talking to a professional and assessing their ducts because there are many benefits to duct replacement that will help the process nearly pay for itself. Homeowners will be shocked that they ever put up with the issues caused by damaged ducts when they discover these benefits:
  • The system runs more quietly
  • Improved indoor air quality
  • More efficient and better cooling
  • Lower energy bills

Professional Methods for Air Duct Repair

If a home’s ducts are not so damaged as to need complete duct replacement, several methods of professional repair can keep the ducts functional and efficient for quite some time. The first method for duct repair is good, old-fashioned duct tape. People tend to forget that sealing holes and connecting ductwork is precisely what this all-around useful stuff was created for. It is still used regularly for this as well as many other things. 

Another method of duct repair is caulking. Specially formulated caulk that withstands the temperature changes is used to seal pieces of ductwork together or to fill holes. Again this can give ducts a whole new functioning life. 

A third method that is becoming popular is spray sealant. This can be either a base coating or an expanding foam that helps insulate. This sturdy material also increases the life expectancy of air ducts.

About Albers Air Conditioning & Heating

Family-owned and operated Albers Air Conditioning & Heating has served Slidell, LA and the surrounding communities for more than 30 years. With NATE-certified technicians and honest pricing, they are the ones to call for all residential and commercial HVAC service.

Distribution Links +