It’s the official end of winter and the start of spring. Your HVAC system is going to make the change from cold weather to warmer weather, although the process can be a slow one with occasional returns of colder temperatures. You may still need to schedule heater service in Highland, MI before the warmer weather settles in.
We want to address a particular issue with your HVAC system that affects the heating system as well as the cooling system: leaks along the ducts. If your ventilation system needs sealing, we recommend you have it done as soon as possible so you have quality heating for the next few weeks, and so you’re ready to go with your air conditioning when you need it.
Why would there be leaks in my ducts?
Ductwork can be made of metal, plastic, or a type of insulated fiberglass called duct board. Duct board has become common because of its relatively low cost, excellent insulation, and quiet performance. Unfortunately, duct board can develop leaks from damage, high humidity, and insects. Plastic ducts can suffer from similar problems, and metal ducts can corrode and come loose. Because the ducts in homes were often poorly installed in the first place, the increase in the air pressure can also cause leaks to start.
If I can’t see the ducts, how do I know they’re leaking?
Because these leaks cause conditioned air to escape and the pressure inside the ventilation system to drop, they create signs you may notice:
- The airflow from room vents is lower than usual, and certain rooms are not getting sufficient heating.
- Metals ducts are making rattling sounds as the heating system turns on.
- Mold and musty odors are coming from the vents.
- You’ve noticed a sudden rise in your utility bills.
Here’s the big important fact to know about duct leaks: up to 30% of the air moving through the ventilation system can escape out these leaks. That translates to losing almost a third of the air you paid to heat with your heating system (or cool with the AC). It’s going to waste in places like the attic or between walls. The house has poorer comfort and the HVAC system becomes costlier to run.
Why not use duct tape?
This sounds odd, but duct tape isn’t designed for use on ducts. (It’s a long story, but it was originally called duck tape.) Not only can you not solve duct leaks with duct tape, you won’t even be able to locate or access all the leaks. The job requires professionals.
Trust us to seal your air ducts
We’re an experienced HVAC company with a history helping homes enjoy the best in comfort and energy savings. Sealing and repairing ducts is an important part of this job. If you suspect you’ve got ducts in bad shape here at the end of winter and the start of spring, make an appointment with us. We’ll identify where the leaks are, the extent of the problem, and then have the ventilation system sealed up—good as new.
Call First Choice Heating & Cooling if you need air duct sealing. If your home had a voice… it would call First Choice!