As a Phoenix-area homeowner, you know firsthand the importance of a smoothly functioning HVAC system during weather extremes. But over time, those snaking ducts transporting heated and cooled air can start to fail. Slow leaks eventually undermine your indoor comfort and send utility bills soaring. Here are the most common culprits behind duct leaks.
Old Age
Like most home infrastructure, your ducting ages. The constant airflow and cycling temperatures expand and contract metal joints while accumulating dust, pet hair, and grime. After five to 10 years, adhesive seals start giving out allowing precious hot or chilled air to escape into your walls, basement, and attic instead of your rooms. Gradually deteriorating ducts are the main source of leakage.
Poor Connections
Shoddy HVAC installation is more common than you’d expect, with home builders sometimes failing to firmly tape and clamp your ducting segments. Even small gaps between the drywall and registers or detached straps along the duct run allow substantial airflow loss over your home’s lifetime. Poorly connected fittings are prime weak points.
Damage and Dislocations
Ducts also get inadvertently crushed behind storage boxes, drywall imperfections create air gaps, settling foundations apply external pressure, and gnawing critters compromise duct integrity. Pets and children can bump into ducts kinking the duct shape or physically disconnecting parts impeding flow which strains the blower motor and wastes excess energy trying to circulate air.
Improper Design
Ductwork design can result in unnecessary twists. Sharp corners or undersized tubing for your home’s square footage are common mistakes. This forces excessive static pressure and airflow declines up to 40%.
Inadequate Maintenance
Just like replacing HVAC filters, occasionally having experienced local HVAC technicians verify duct integrity helps maintain efficiency. Cleaning accumulated mineral deposits and microbial growth inside the lining also optimizes flow.
While complete duct replacement sometimes becomes necessary over time due to Arizona’s brutal heat, spot checking for leaks every few years can extend lifespan. Your expert technicians can listen for whistling, feel for temperature variances room to room, and look for mold or soot around vents signaling lost air. With a proactive maintenance approach, you can avoid untimely duct disasters!
At Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating, our phone lines are open 24/7 to handle emergencies as they arise. Call us for all your ductwork and HVAC questions at 480-968-5652 to schedule an appointment. We’re happy to perform a full system inspection and provide you with a detailed assessment of your HVAC system. Why not call us today?
