The HVAC system is a complex system that includes the furnace, air conditioning units, compressors, ductwork system, thermostats, and more. The system distributes air from the ventilation, heating, and cooling equipment throughout the indoor spaces via ductwork. When the system is not working properly, many people quickly attribute the problem to faulty mechanical parts within the heating, cooling, or ventilation equipment. Very often, the problem is something far more simple, explains Walnut Creek’s premier air duct repair company, Attic Efficiency.
Because of the complexity and interconnectivity of the system, leaky air ducts may seem a minor problem but have a significant impact on the entire system. When a leak occurs, conditioned air leaks through the gaps of the duct system before it can reach the intended space. Since ductwork is typically out of sight and hidden in the ceiling or attic spaces, spotting the problem can be very difficult unless you know the signs that provide clues.
How to Identify Leaky Ducts
Like every other working system, air ducts are subject to damage and aging, leading to hidden cracks. Even though the ductwork may be out of sight, it is still possible to narrow down the problem. Here are the top indicators of a problem with cracked or leaky ductwork.
Increased Energy Bills
When there is a leak, the HVAC system has to work extra hard. When the full force of conditioned air does not reach the destination, the room never heats or cools properly or reaches the desired set temperature. As a result, the thermostat triggers the system to run longer or turn off and on erratically. When this happens, energy bills go up.
Noticeable Hot or Cold Spots
HVAC systems are designed to cool or heat spaces as evenly as possible. If there are noticeable hot or cold spots, it is likely a sign of needing air duct repair. This occurs because some spaces in homes or businesses may receive more sunlight or are exposed to outside elements more often. If there was no air duct leak, the system could regulate the temperature in those areas.
Excessive Dust
Air ducts are passageways and transport air and any dust it picks up along the way. If the activity in the structure has not changed, but there is a significant increase in the dust accumulating on the indoor surfaces, a duct leak is the most likely culprit.
What to Do If You Suspect a Duct Leak
If the signs are pointing to a duct leak, there is good news. Compared to most HVAC problems, it is a fast, easy, inexpensive fix and something an air duct repair company can do. The best thing to do is make notes of the observed problems and the areas in which they occurred and call an air duct repair company as soon as possible for an inspection and repair. While it may seem like a small problem, delaying getting it fixed can mean several significant issues, including:
- Higher energy costs
- The decreased lifespan of the HVAC system
- Poor indoor air quality
Far too often, people ignore the signs of a problem and fail to take action. Unfortunately, this usually leads to more problems and higher repair costs for the entire system.
Air Duct Repair Company Walnut Creek
Attic Efficiency is a licensed and insured insulation air duct repair company serving Walnut Creek, CA, and the surrounding cities. Locally owned and operated, the company has earned its reputation by offering exceptional services at competitive prices. For more information about Attic Efficiency or its services, call (209) 752-6089.