During the first stretch of warm weather for the season, we recommend you pay close attention to your electrical bills. You can anticipate paying more when the air conditioning system begins to run regularly because the AC’s compressor draws on more electricity than almost any other appliance in the home. However, you can expect the electric bills to be close to what you were paying this time last year (unless there are special circumstances). If you notice that the cost has made a significant increase this year, it’s often a warning you need air conditioning repair in Middletown. Leaky ducts can lower monthly energy efficiency by up to 30 percent according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The benefits of professional duct repair include improved system efficiency, better indoor air quality, and cost savings.
But not all spikes in the cost to run the AC come from the air conditioner itself. There may be other troubles in the HVAC system. One of the most common sources of a rise in the costs to cool a house is trouble with the ducts. If your ductwork has sprung a leak, it can quickly impact your comfort and energy bills. Contaminants like dust, mold, and pet dander can infiltrate the air supply through faulty ducts. Timely duct repair is essential for maintaining system performance and preventing further issues. When you need professional help, our company is licensed and trusted for heating duct repair near me, and customers can count on the expertise of our technicians. We prioritize customer satisfaction and tailor our solutions to meet our customers’ specific needs. Remember, even a minor leak can turn into a major problem if not addressed promptly.
Duct Leakage
The ducts in your house are hidden from sight, and this makes it difficult for you to know what condition they’re in. Ducts age and suffer from strain like other parts of the HVAC system, and this can lead to leaks and gapping. This process will speed up if the ducts were poorly installed when the house was constructed. Other sources for air leaks include vermin infestations and blocked vents that raise the air pressure.
But how bad could a few air leaks be for the HVAC system? The answer is: pretty bad. Ductwork is supposed to be airtight along its length so the HVAC system can maintain air pressure. Any breaks in the airtight seal will cause air pressure to drop, leading to less cooling reaching the rooms from the AC. The cool air that escapes through the leaks is going to waste, and the air conditioner will have to work harder to make up the difference as it tries to reach the requested temperature in the house.
Finding Duct Leaks
How can you tell that you have duct leaks if the ducts are mostly disguised from sight? Well, you’ve already noticed one symptom: a rise in cooling costs. There are several other warning signs:
- Low airflow coming from room vents.
- A moldy or dusty odor in the air.
- Rattling sounds from the ducts when the fan is running.
- A rise in indoor humidity.
If you think you have duct leaks, the next step is to call our professionals for duct testing. We can find out the extent of the air leaks in the ducts and determine the best step to fix the problem.
Duct Sealing
In most cases, fixing leaking air ducts requires professional duct sealing. (No, you can’t use duct tape for this. Duct tape, you might be surprised to hear, doesn’t work on ducts.) Once our experts have located the leaks in the ducts, we can access them and use tools such as mastic sealant or metallic tapes to make the ventilation system airtight once more. We’ll test the ducts again when we’re finished to make sure your HVAC system has its airtight ductwork restored.
Duct Cleaning and Indoor Air Quality
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable and healthy, duct cleaning plays a vital role in maintaining excellent indoor air quality. Over time, air ducts can collect dust, debris, and other contaminants that circulate through your HVAC system every time the heating or cooling equipment runs. This buildup doesn’t just affect your air quality, it can also put extra strain on your system, leading to higher energy bills and even costly repairs down the road. Regular duct cleaning is recommended every three to five years by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).
Poor indoor air quality is more than just an inconvenience. It can trigger allergies, worsen asthma, and contribute to a range of health issues for your family. In fact, the EPA lists indoor air quality as one of the top environmental health risks in homes today. That’s why regular duct cleaning is so important for homeowners who want to ensure a safe, comfortable living environment.
A professional duct cleaning service does more than just remove visible dust. Our trained team uses specialized equipment to thoroughly clean your air ducts, eliminating hidden contaminants, mold, and debris that can compromise your air and the efficiency of your HVAC system. We also inspect for signs of damage, leaks, or other issues that could impact your system’s performance. By addressing these problems early, you can avoid unexpected repairs and keep your heating and cooling equipment running efficiently.
Routine maintenance is key to protecting your indoor air quality. In addition to duct cleaning, it’s important to schedule regular tune-ups, change your air filters, and keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, like unusual odors, visible dust, or reduced airflow. These simple steps can make a big difference in the health of your home and the longevity of your HVAC system.
At Atlantic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc., we understand how important clean air is for your family’s health and comfort. Our friendly professionals are here to help with everything from air duct installation and duct cleaning to ac repair and system maintenance. We proudly serve homeowners throughout DE and the Maryland Eastern Shore, and we strive to deliver efficient, reliable service you can trust. If you’re ready to improve your indoor air quality or schedule a duct cleaning, contact our team today, we’re here to help you breathe easier at home.
Atlantic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc. serves Delaware and the Maryland Eastern Shore. Call us to schedule duct testing and duct sealing.