By now, you probably already know that having an energy efficient HVAC system can provide huge savings on your monthly energy bill. One lesser known source of energy loss and potential savings is your ductwork. Often forgotten because it runs out of sight and out of mind, the ductwork running through your ceilings and walls is actually one of the biggest sources of heat loss that can increase your energy bill.
Potential Duct Problems
Because ducts are made to be flexible, they can easily develop problems over time. The biggest source of leaks is where sections of ducts join or split off toward different areas of your home. The seals at these locations frequently wear out over time and can send air flowing into your attic instead of your living spaces. In rare cases, the original contractor may not have even installed the ducts properly and left them unconnected altogether.
Leaks can also occur in the middle of duct sections. Typically, this occurs when someone storing items or performing other work in the attic punctures a duct without realizing what they’ve done. Ducts bent around corners or placed against another object could also puncture over time from the vibrations of passing air.
Checking Ducts
To keep your energy bill low, periodically check your ducts. In the areas of your attic where there is good crawl space, you can visually inspect your ductwork. While the system is running, carry a piece of paper close to the accessible ducts and look to see if it is blown away from or pulled toward the ducts to detect less obvious leaks.
If you do detect leaks, your energy bill is unexpectedly rising, or a room isn’t heating or cooling as expected, it’s time to call in the pros. While you can detect and repair some problems yourself, it’s likely that there are additional leaks in the areas you can’t reach. A HVAC pro will have special tools to measure your airflow and be sure your ducts are 100 percent airtight.
For ductwork improvements in the St. Petersburg and Clearwater area, contact Cox Air Conditioning & Heating today.
