Many homeowners believe the most important part of their home comfort system is their furnace and central air conditioning unit. While these mechanical systems play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, the ductwork that distributes heated and cooled air throughout your residence is the true unsung hero. This network of air passageways, most of which are behind walls, affects the speed and energy efficiency of your HVAC.
What Is Ductwork?
Think of ductwork as your home’s circulatory system. Just as arteries and veins distribute blood, nutrients and oxygen throughout your body, ductwork acts as a pathway for air to reach various rooms and spaces. The network of mechanical tubing comprising ductwork consists of two main types. Supply ducts deliver conditioned air into rooms, while return ducts send air that has circulated back to the system for reconditioning.
Ducts require proper sizing by professionals and periodic maintenance to remain efficient and augment your HVAC. A system that is too big or too small, or one that has accumulated dirt or holes, can lead to premature strain and breakdown of your furnace and air conditioning systems.
The Role Ducts Play in Air Quality
Properly sized ductwork does more than impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. By continually circulating air, your HVAC system air filter captures dust, allergens, microbes, and more to improve indoor air quality. Contaminants can include insulation fibers and mold spores, posing health risks to some individuals.
Poorly designed or installed ductwork can spread harmful contaminants throughout your home. Well-installed ducts with air filters throughout the system can trap harmful particles that enter your home. Investing in your ductwork is a smart move because of its impact on indoor air quality.
Regulation of Temperature and Moisture Levels
Well-designed ductwork can help eliminate temperature variations across different areas of your home, no matter what the season. Wrongly sized ducts can contribute to a moisture problem, leading to overly humid air that encourages mold growth. If your home currently has these problems, a new ductwork system may be the answer.
If you need new ductwork, working with an experienced HVAC contractor is essential to determine the correct size and design. Similar to when you buy a new HVAC system, you should ensure your professional performs the necessary complex calculations that factor in your home’s size, layout, and system requirements for proper design and installation. Properly sizing ductwork to match your HVAC system should use industry standards such as the Manual J Load Calculation and Manual D Duct Design to optimize performance and comfort.
Ducts Require Regular Maintenance
Ductwork is a mechanical system that experiences vibration whenever your HVAC turns on and off. Over time, this movement can degrade the materials from which your ducts are made. Dirt and debris that accumulate in your ducts can also degrade the material. HVAC experts vary on when you should replace ducts, but once they reach 15 years old, you should consider getting periodic inspections.
Having your HVAC technician perform minor repairs, such as loose joints or small holes, can easily remedy the issue. Mastic, metal tape, or aerosol sealants can fix small leaks and holes. To prevent temperature fluctuations, consider placing insulation around ductwork in unconditioned spaces.
Homeowners should periodically inspect their ductwork for signs that it may need repair. Whistling sounds when air passes through indicate possible damage to the ducts or signal the presence of debris within the system. Pests, including various insects or rodents, that make nests within ductwork require removal. If you notice warm or hot spots, call for an inspection of your ductwork.
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends that owners schedule a thorough air duct cleaning every three to five years to maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of their HVAC system. Ask us about our HVAC maintenance!
Why You Need Clean, Sealed Ducts
Leaks or gaps in ducts can allow contaminants from unconditioned spaces to enter the system and circulate through your home. Maintaining them will make your HVAC run more efficiently, keep you more comfortable, and provide a clean indoor environment.
Family Heating and Air, Inc provides comprehensive heating and cooling repair, maintenance, and installation services, including heat pumps and other innovative solutions.
Contact us for the best HVAC service in Sebastian, FL and surrounding communities.
