Let’s face it, ducts are the most neglected part of an air heating and cooling system. Most of the time, it stays hidden in your home. As a result, we tend to forget to clean or maintain it. However, neglecting the ducts for a long time can lead to various issues with your HVAC system.
Ducts are needed to carry the air in and out of your home. It serves as a ventilation system for your HVAC. To keep your HVAC system running smoothly, you must take care of the ducts.
So how do I know if I have bad ductwork? Here are some of the signs that are an indication of bad ductwork.
- Insufficient airflow
Insufficient airflow can result from various reasons. For example, if you have redecorated your house. Or your registers are getting blocked by furniture. If you experience insufficient airflow even after removing the obstruction, there’s a chance that your duct is at fault. In this case, you should consult a professional and get the ductwork right.
- Air duct leaks
If there’s a leak in your ductwork, it will put pressure on your HVAC system to work harder. If the ducts are loose, they will suck in dirty air. A leaking air duct is a big problem. Check for gaps, poor connections, and cracks around your air duct seams. If you notice anything odd, contact a professional to fix the issue. Neglecting such a problem can worsen things for your HVAC system.
- Inconsistent room temperatures
The inconsistent temperature in a room is a sign of poor ductwork. Undersized grilles and ducts block airflow and cause the temperature to fluctuate. If you hear strange noises like popping or whistling, it means you are using the wrong duct size. This problem can be solved by contacting your HVAC professional.
Ducts are an integral part of an HVAC system. If there’s an issue with the ducts, it will create trouble for your HVAC system. If you notice any of these signs, you should hire a professional to fix them.