Just about any homeowner who owns a heating and cooling system knows what HVAC stands for. You’re probably thinking, “Of course, it stands for heating and air conditioning.” But do you know what the “V” stands for? If not, don’t be too hard on yourself. Many people aren’t aware that it stands for “ventilation.”
However, ignoring your home’s ventilation is something you shouldn’t do. Ventilation is a part of HVAC for good reason. Your home’s ventilation system (its air ducts and ductwork) is the support system for your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner, and if it’s not up to the task, your home comfort will suffer.
You can purchase a high-efficiency furnace or air conditioner, but investing in a costly system is only part of the equation. Many things affect how energy efficient your home is including the state of your ductwork and your home’s insulation. Let’s go over how problematic air ducts can contribute to decreased HVAC efficiency and the signs that this is happening in your home.
The Importance of Ductwork
When your home was built, the ductwork was new and shiny and properly installed (ideally). But just like everything, ductwork is subject to wear and tear over time. Connections can become misaligned and thin metal ductwork can develop holes and tears.
Ductwork is so essential to the heating/cooling process that it’s been estimated that as much as 30% of the conditioned air your system produces is lost to holes and cracks in ductwork.
Think about how much harder your HVAC system has to work when its support network (your ductwork) is losing 30% of the conditioned air the system generates. Your system has to work 30% harder than it should have to! We’re guesstimating here, but that means it’s running about 30% more frequently, it’s using 30% more energy, and it’s driving up your energy bills.
Signs That Your Home Needs Duct Repair or Replacement
When you need ductwork repair or replacement, the signs aren’t always obvious. Be aware of these warning signs that your ventilation system could use some help.
- Reduced airflow: Leaks or misalignments in your ductwork will allow your temperature-controlled air to leak out into your attic or crawlspace, reducing the airflow that makes it to the rooms of your home. You’ll notice that it seems to take longer for your house to reach the desired temperature.
- High energy bills: When the air your HVAC system creates is lost to openings in your ductwork, it forces your system to work harder to make up for it, costing you extra energy. Not only is this incredibly wasteful, but it’s expensive.
- Dusty or dirty air: Duct leaks allow your filtered, comfortable air out and let dirty, dusty, and uncomfortable air in. This results in a decrease in your indoor air quality and your comfort. This can be especially problematic for family members with asthma or allergies.
If you suspect your ductwork isn’t up to the task, contact us for an expert opinion.
Contact Peatson’s Heating and Air Conditioning Ltd. for reliable ductwork repair services in Mississauga, ON.