Just as you need your circulatory system to pump blood throughout your entire body, your home needs its ductwork to deliver heating and cooling to every room. Regular maintenance and HVAC system checkups help keep your furnace and central air conditioning running as expected but you may be sensing some warning signs that your ductwork has a problem.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Ductwork
Like your HVAC equipment, ductwork also ages and may need replacement if you notice these indicators.
Energy bills have increased: If you’ve noticed a steady climb in your utility bills despite regular HVAC maintenance, it could be a sign of leaky or inefficient ducts. This can cause your HVAC system to work harder and consume more energy. Homes lose 20 to 30% of HVAC energy on average due to duct leaks, leading to higher utility bills.
Uneven temperatures: If some rooms in your home are noticeably warmer or cooler than others, this may signal leaks or blockages in the ductwork. You can do a “pretest” by checking all your registers for airflow.
Poor indoor air quality: If you or your family members experience allergies or persistent respiratory issues, the problem may be due to dirty ductwork, which can harbor allergens, dust, and other contaminants. You can remove vent covers and check for and clean dust buildup where visible; then call your HVAC contractor for a full duct checkup. If you detect rodent activity or mold growth, call in a professional to handle the problem!
Visible damage: If you have exposed ducts in your basement, attic, or crawlspace, check them for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, holes, or sagging (or worse), or disconnected ducts. In the case of disconnected ductwork, you may be able to fasten the sections together again yourself and seal the exterior with mastic tape. Beyond that, ductwork repair is best left to a certified HVAC technician.
Strange noises: All you should hear when your HVAC system kicks on is the sound of air flowing through the ducts. If you hear hissing, whistling, or rattling sounds, these noises can indicate leaks, obstructions, or loose connections. These may also mean that the original ductwork is too small for your system or is not balanced correctly.
Age of the ductwork: If your home is older, the ductwork may have reached the end of its lifespan. Typically, ductwork lasts around 10-15 years, but this can vary depending on factors like material and maintenance.
What to Expect During and After Ductwork Replacement
Ductwork replacement is a significant investment and is a big project, but it can offer numerous benefits. Here’s what you can expect during and after the installation process.
Assessment: The HVAC technician will assess your home’s layout—which may involve the attic, walls, or crawl spaces—to determine the best placement for new ductwork.
Installation: The old ductwork will be removed, and new ducts will be installed. Depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the project, the installation process can take several hours or a couple of days. You don’t want to rush this part!
Testing: Once the installation is complete, the HVAC technician will thoroughly test the new ductwork to ensure proper airflow and performance.
Improved comfort: You should notice a significant improvement in your home’s comfort levels after the new ductwork is installed. Rooms will be warm or cool as expected and you may also experience more even temperatures throughout your home.
Energy savings: Efficient ductwork can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills.
Better indoor air quality: New ductwork will prevent the circulation of dust, allergens, and other contaminants which can help improve indoor air quality (and cut down on sneezing or wheezing).
HVAC Ductwork Installation is NOT a DIY Job
Your home’s ductwork was professionally installed by an HVAC contractor and should be replaced by one. With ductwork running all through your house, this is a job for installation techs who are trained to replace and install ductwork properly. This ensures the system will be properly balanced and insulated as well to ensure (and protect) your HVAC system’s overall efficiency.
Professional Ductwork Replacement from Bloomfield Cooling, Heating & Electric
At Bloomfield Cooling, Heating & Electric, we have designated lead installers and installation teams—certified technicians with the training and experience to replace your ductwork the right way. We also have our own sheet metal shop on our premises to fabricate custom ductwork for unusual layouts.
If you suspect that your ductwork may be causing cooling and heating problems, contact Bloomfield Cooling, Heating & Electric at (973) 237-0505 or info@bloomfieldcooling.com to arrange a ductwork inspection. Our qualified HVAC technicians will assess the condition of your ductwork and recommend the best course of action.
