The average lifespan of a central heating and air conditioning system’s ductwork is 10 to 15 years. Consequently, My Father’s Mechanical advises that you may need to have your ductwork replaced sooner rather than later if it is older than that. There are signs that the ducting is torn, dirty, or just too old. We are going to list these signs below so you know what to look for when it comes to your home’s ductwork.
Temperature Inconsistency
Whether you are running the AC or heater, if there is an inconsistency between the temperatures in each room, the ductwork could be torn. For example, assume for the moment that your heater is on and every room in the house with the exception of the living room is getting warm. This is a sign that the ducting to the living room vent has either ripped or separated from the vent or HVAC system.
Frequent HVAC Cycling
Frequent HVAC cycling means either the heater or air conditioner keeps turning on and off consistently. This can be a sign that the ductwork is clogged and the airflow is compromised. The cycling is the HVAC unit’s feeble attempt to maintain the desired temperature in the home. Frequent cycling can also be a sign of a problem with the HVAC unit itself such as an indication that it is time to replace it.
Strange and Musty Odors
Older ductwork can be filled with dust, mold, and mildew. What’s frightening is that every time the HVAC unit turns on, this dust, mold, and mildew is circulated through your indoor air. Depending on the condition of the ducting, we may be able to clean it for you rather than replace it. If the ducting is really bad, however, replacing it is a better way to ensure your indoor air is free from contaminants.
Poor Air Circulation
You should always have excellent airflow coming through each vent in your home. If the air circulation is poor, your ducting may be obstructed, torn and leaking, or damaged in some other fashion. For example, if you just had your ductwork replaced and the AC company installed ducting that isn’t the right size for your HVAC system, you may have poor air circulation coming into each room.
My Father’s Mechanical is the best AC repair company in San Antonio, TX, so call us today if you believe there is a problem with your ductwork. We would be happy to come to your home and inspect and repair the ducting.