If you’re like many greater Phoenix area homeowners, you may be unaware that your HVAC system’s air ducts play a very important role in your home’s comfort, as well as its energy efficiency. Although your heater and air conditioner primarily control your indoor air temperature, your system’s ductwork is responsible for circulating the air throughout your home. In other words, an air duct problem can lead to an uncomfortable, energy inefficient home.

The following are the most common air duct problems that can affect your indoor air and HVAC system’s efficiency.

Design Flaws

You may be surprised to learn that many homes are built with a problematic layout of air ductwork. This is commonly seen when air must run through an extended area of attic. This problem can often be corrected by redirecting ducts to a more direct route to increase efficiency.

Poor Airflow

Another frequently seen air duct problem is inadequate airflow. Along with having a direct route for ductwork, it’s also important to have sufficient return for supply ducts. Your HVAC system requires a sufficient supply of air to heat and cool your home.  Without enough air, your system must work harder and can’t produce as much cooled or heated air.

Duct Blockages

Kinks and twists in ductwork can reduce airflow and decrease efficiency. Holes, tears and gaps in air ducts also cause air to leak out. Leaking ducts also lead to contaminants from the attic, crawl space or basement entering into air within ducts that then flows into your home.

Dirty Air Ducts

Indoor air can be 10 to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air. Dirt, pet hair, dust, pollen, smoke and more can get trapped in your home and continuously circulate through ducts. High humidity and hot temperatures can also spawn mold, fungus, spores and dust mites. This is why it’s important for air ducts and air filters to be cleaned on a regular basis.

At Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we can test your home’s air and determine if pollutants and particulates are circulating in your home and provide guidance on the best options for improving your home’s air quality and function of your HVAC system. We can evaluate your HVAC system, including your ductwork, to optimize your home’s comfort and efficiency.