Your HVAC system is responsible for the heating, air conditioning and ventilation in your building.
It is a complex system, made up of various components, and it is only when there is a problem that we tend to give it its due importance.
Hence, it is of utmost importance that your HVAC system is regularly maintained as this can help reduce such problems from occurring.
There are some common HVAC duct problems which could be properly addressed if you notice them early on.
Here’s the 5 most common HVAC duct problems you should be aware of:
Table of Contents
Strange Odours
Unpleasant odours may be noticed at times.
The air ducts in your HVAC system could well be the reason behind such smells.
It is normal for moisture to build up in the air ducts, and in time this leads to foul-smelling mould and mildew forming.
Besides, if you do not carry out regular and proper cleaning, unpleasant odours could also be deriving from fecal deposits from insects and rodents.
Uneven Temperatures
You might have been noticing that the level of comfort in one room may be different from that in another room.
This is because the temperature is different as a result of the room’s positioning in relation to the HVAC’s air ducts.
So, you might enter a room that is cool, while another one is stuffy because the ducts that lead to it might have a leak.
As a result the cool air that is supposed to be entering into that room is not managing to do so.
Airflow Problems
Air duct issues could also be leading to poor airflow in the building.
There may be a reduction in air flow in all the vents, and generally this is the result of a clog or a leak in one of the main air ducts.
If on the other hand the problem seems to be only in one room or area, most probably there is a blockage or leak in air ducts in that location alone.
Air Filter Clogs
A very common problem with HVAC systems are clogged air filters.
It is of critical importance to change air filters on a regular basis.
It is recommended to do this at least on a quarterly basis.
However, even if you make it a point to do this, you might notice that the filters may still be getting clogged up.
The reason behind this is usually air ducts that are full of debris, which is in turn clogging the air filters.
Noise
Have you been hearing rather unusual sounds from your HVAC system?
Chances are that the air ducts are the reason.
Whistling sounds, for instance, are commonly attributed to damage to air ducts.
Other bothersome sounds are popping sounds which often result due to changes in the air pressure.
Air ducts could develop leaks and cracks over time, and it is important to check them every now and then so as to make the necessary repairs.
Besides being bothered by the sounds, you will want to repair any duct leaks as these will greatly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, particularly with regards to air flow.
An HVAC inspection will ensure that any leaky air duct leaks are seen to and properly sealed.
Solutions
Routine Inspections
A routine duct inspection should form part of your HVAC system regular maintenance.
There are various solutions and fixes that can be done in order to keep your HVAC ducts in good condition, and so you will be able to resolve, or better still, avoid any of the above mentioned common problems.
A duct inspection will generally be followed up by a professional duct cleaning procedure.
Any clogs resulting from dust, debris, pet dander, and other contaminants will be removed.
Duct leaks will be sealed, and any kinks and tears in the ductwork will be noticed and repaired.
Ductwork Alterations
Sometimes changes in the ductwork design and sizing might be recommended.
Ducts should not be too long or contain several sharp bends as this will affect the airflow.
The duct sizing is also important as if your HVAC system has inadequately sized ducts chances are that it is working less efficiently.
You might also need to add more supply or return vents in order to provide for improved air flow.
Conclusion
An experienced and licensed HVAC technician will be able to notice any problems in your HVAC ducts and tackle them accordingly.
While you might have been experiencing one or more of the above mentioned common HVAC duct problems, preventative action is definitely better.
So as a general rule of thumb, try to schedule a routine HVAC inspection to keep your HVAC system in top shape.
At the end of the day, you will be saving up money by avoiding the need to repair problems, as well as allowing your HVAC system to operate at maximum efficiency.