Spotting Damaged Ductwork 

Owners spend a lot of time worrying about their air conditioners and heaters. With semi-annual maintenance, the machinery that keeps residential and commercial spaces comfortable often precedes the somewhat invisible portion of the HVAC system: the ductwork. Ductwork makes up at least half of an HVAC system when considering the space that is occupied and the installation cost of a new heating and cooling system. Too often, the ductwork goes unnoticed, to the detriment of the space's comfort. 

Ductwork can develop serious problems that contribute to discomfort in a home or business. Here are the three top signs that ductwork is the source of heating and cooling headaches. 

Dust Buildup and Poor Housekeeping 

Air quality has always been a main concern in HVAC systems, but in recent years, it has become a topic of discussion for the average person. In the wake of a respiratory pandemic, most people are more aware of their indoor air quality. One thing people are not aware of is the role that their ductwork plays in their indoor air quality and general housekeeping. 

Ductwork is expected to last for decades, but aging ductwork can deteriorate and cause damage. Outside dust can be distributed around the home when holes form in ductwork. When owners are diligent with their air filter replacement, but dust is still a problem in the space, the source of the problem is likely the ductwork instead of the air filter. To spot this problem, keep an eye out for: 

• Dust buildup on air vents
• Dusty surfaces
• Frequent cleanings are necessary
• Poor indoor air quality 

Airflow Problems 

If there is one job for ductwork, it is protecting airflow. Air can only be efficiently distributed around the home with ductwork to keep it regulated. The value of good airflow for comfort and health cannot be underestimated, so when owners notice problems with airflow, they should rectify them quickly. Some of the signs that airflow is being restricted by ductwork are: 

• Uneven heating or cooling in the home
• Hot and cold spots
• Humidity problems
• Weak airflow from vents

These problems arise when ductwork is damaged or aging. As modern plastic ducts age, they are more likely to collapse. Even with older metal ductwork, corrosion can cause collapse, or external forces can pinch them closed. All of these will contribute to poor airflow and require air duct repairs. 

Energy Bills Are Getting Higher

Efficiency is a major concern with heating and cooling. When owners have to upgrade their equipment, most will pay extra for a few percentage points of efficiency. However, the ductwork is the biggest source of inefficiency in every system. 

Air ducts are insulated to help distribute conditioned air without wasting energy. Over time, the insulation can degrade, allowing heated or cooled air to escape into unoccupied space. The wasted energy from this process can greatly drive up energy bills so it is always in the owner's best interest to get ductwork repaired quickly to keep costs low. 

About B&L Plumbing

B&L Plumbing is a veteran-owned plumbing and HVAC contractor. They understand that emergencies happen, so they never charge after-hours fees. Their teams take the time to custom-tailor repair and installation options on each job. Call today for HVAC repairs in Colorado Springs, CO. 

Contact Information:

B&L Plumbing

745 Valley Street
Colorado Springs, CO
United States

Tonya McEowen
(719) 337-1850
https://www.bandlplumbing.com/