When people consider their HVAC systems, they often ignore the one system that’s actually the largest and most integral: the ductwork. The ducts act as the lungs of any centralized forced air system, without which said system wouldn’t even be able to do its job. As we move into summer, it’s just as important for your ducts to be healthy as it is for any other part of your air conditioning system. When was the last time you thought about having your ducts repaired, or even looked at by a professional? Not recently, we’re willing to bet. Have a look at why it’s a good idea to have your ducts repaired this summer.
It Increases Energy Efficiency
The average residential ducts are actually very susceptible to developing leaks over time. This usually happens at the joining of separate sections, where years of expanding and contracting with the temperature of the air in the ducts works the various sections loose. While individual leaks in the ducts may be small, they can really add up in terms of the effect they have. The US Department of Energy has estimated that the average forced air climate control system can lose up to 30% of its average output to duct leaks. That’s nearly a third of the total output the system produces going to waste every time you turn it on. This forces the air conditioner to operate for longer to get your temperature to where you want it to be, prolonging your discomfort and costing you more money each month. Getting your ducts repaired can help resolve this problem.
It Makes You More Comfortable
We already touched on how having your ducts repaired can improve your comfort levels above, but that’s not the only way it can happen. Ducts with a lot of leaks in them have a tendency to allow all kinds of airborne contaminants into them. Dust, pollen, dander, germs, and mold spores are all quite common in the average home, and tend to collect in ducts that are not properly sealed against them. As the contaminants build up in the ducts, the dosage of them that you receive every time you turn on your climate control systems goes up. This can cause all kinds of issues, including flu and allergy attacks. If you have your ducts repaired, however, you eliminate those openings for airborne contaminants to infiltrate the climate control systems. This improves your indoor air quality—and your comfort levels in the process.
It is important to note that sometimes, no amount of repair work will be enough to get ductwork to where it needs to be. In cases like those, it is often best to have part or all of the ductwork replaced so you can take advantage of the benefits we listed above.
Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. offers duct repair and replacement services in Danville, CA. If your ducts are not as healthy as they should be, contact us today for an appointment with one of our technicians.