3 Signs of Leaky Air Ducts

In addition to the indoor and outdoor units, your AC comprises ductwork that distributes conditioned air throughout your home. Mostly, people associate AC problems with defective unit components, but leaky air ducts also affect your system's performance. 

So, what are the signs of leaky ductwork?

Higher Energy Bills

Generally, your energy bills should remain about the same except when you have guests over or when your AC constantly runs during the hot season. More energy consumption means high utility bills. If your energy bills skyrocket for no apparent reason, leaky ductwork is the likely culprit. 

Over time, your ductwork deteriorates due to temperature fluctuations and high humidity, which results in the corrosion of duct material, broken seals, or detached ductwork. As a result, conditioned air leaks through ductwork imperfections and escapes to unwanted areas instead of getting circulated throughout your home.

Consequently, your AC works harder and draws more energy to maintain proper indoor comfort levels. The result is high energy bills. If left unchecked, your system could break down. So, enlist a professional to repair or replace your ductwork. 

Excessive Dust

Dust is normal in most homes, especially if you have pets. In fact, most average homes have a dust build-up of up to 40 pounds each year. However, leaky ductwork might be to blame if your home seems to have excessive dust throughout.

Most homeowners place their ductwork in unconditioned spaces, like attics and crawlspaces. If these spaces are dusty, the dust will find its way into the system through the cracks in your ductwork and get circulated into your home. This situation ruins your indoor air quality.

Furthermore, when dirt, dust and other contaminants in your attic enter your home through the ducts, allergies, asthma and respiratory issues may ensue. To win the battle against dust, always keep your air ducts sealed. Also, regularly clean your attic to eliminate dust accumulation. 

Uneven Heating and Cooling

Temperature fluctuations between different rooms in your home signify a leak in your air ducts. Ideally, conditioned air should move to every room in your home evenly. Unfortunately, when you have leaky air ducts, the spaces near the duct leak receive cold air while the rest of the rooms remain warm.

Rooms on the upper floor may sometimes feel warmer than the ground floors. But still, properly installed ductwork should equally distribute the conditioned air to every room.

You can adjust the temperature setting on the thermostat in the colder rooms. But that only offers a temporary reprieve. Ductwork repair is your best bet for consistent temperatures in your home. So, call in an air conditioning professional to assess your ductwork. 


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