Most homes conduct the heated and cooled air provided by HVAC systems through ductwork. These pathways get the air to the vents in the various parts of the home. They’re commonly above ceilings, in attics, where attic duct repairs can be more complex due to limited accessibility, between walls, and out of sight. You could almost forget that they’re there, but it’s a good idea to consider their efficiency. Understanding why your air ducts really matter can help you grasp their importance for home comfort and energy savings.
Ductwork doesn’t last forever. It can wear out or get damaged. Then, the precious, expensive air that your furnace or AC brought to the perfect temperature will be lost. Much of it will leak out of the ducts before it gets to the vents. Leaky ducts are shockingly common, and you might be horrified to learn just how much money that old ductwork is costing you. The average costs of air duct repair can vary widely depending on the extent of the problem, but generally range from $200 to $1,000. Knowing these typical averages can help you budget for necessary fixes. If you think you have duct leaks or any other need for HVAC repair in Milton, WI, don’t hesitate to reach out, a qualified contractor can ensure your air duct repairs are done safely and effectively.
Which Duct Materials Perform Best?
Not all ducts are the same. They can be made of a variety of materials. The most expensive ducts are also the most sturdy and longest-lasting. They’re made out of sheet metal. The least expensive ducts are also the most flimsy and the quickest to get damaged or worn. They’re made of wire coils wrapped in flexible plastic. Fiberboard and fiberglass ducts are in between: not as expensive as metal, and not as flimsy as flexible ducts. Understanding these differences is key when considering HVAC efficiency tips for your home.
When considering duct materials, it’s important to also think about how easy they are to insulate. Properly insulating ductwork helps prevent heat loss, reduces condensation, and improves overall energy efficiency. Insulation is a key factor in maintaining HVAC system performance, and insulating ducts can lead to lower energy bills and better temperature control throughout your home. Some duct materials, like sheet metal, are easier to insulate than others, making insulation an essential step in any comprehensive ductwork strategy.
Most Common Problems with Ductwork
Sadly, one frequent culprit when it comes to duct damage is home improvement. Yes, while you’re trying to make things better, it’s easy to put a screw through a wall or cause something to shift and end up with holes or gaps in your ductwork. Pests such as rodents or insects can also cause sudden damage even to relatively new ducts. These breaches not only waste energy but may introduce contaminants—potentially leading to mold problems in air ducts. Rodent infestations in ducts can lead to undesirable odors and health risks, making it essential to address these issues promptly.
Accidental damage or general wear can lead to loose ductwork or loose sections, which may result in air leaks and reduced HVAC efficiency. It’s important to repair ductwork promptly to prevent further issues and maintain the integrity of your system.
What Causes Ducts to Deteriorate?
The passage of time itself will also cause ducts to develop leaks eventually. The vibration of the furnace or air conditioner can cause things to pull apart, leaving gaps. The constant expansion and contraction caused by heating and cooling takes its toll. And particularly when it comes to flexible ducts, the material becomes more brittle with age and can crack. That’s why seasonal maintenance like a fall duct cleaning checklist can make a big difference in prolonging duct lifespan. Repairing these issues promptly is important to restore proper function and efficiency.
How Much Air Is Your Ductwork Leaking?
It is estimated that the average US home loses up to 30% of its heated or cooled air to gaps, cracks, and holes in ductwork. Imagine retaining all that heating and cooling power instead of paying extra to make up the difference by running your furnace and AC more and more of the time. You could save so much money. Could there be mold in your ducts? If so, it could be exacerbating efficiency issues and affecting indoor air quality. Imagine retaining all that heating and cooling power instead of paying extra to make up the difference by running your furnace and AC more and more of the time. You could save so much money. Could there be mold in your ducts? If so, it could be exacerbating efficiency issues and affecting indoor air quality.
And 30% is the national average. In Wisconsin, the average age of a home is 47 years. That means your ducts may have been in place for nearly half a century, slowly deteriorating and getting damaged. Depending on the location of your ductwork—whether in the attic, basement, or inside walls—the complexity and cost of repairs can vary significantly. Basements often provide easier access to ductwork, making repairs more straightforward and less expensive compared to ducts hidden in walls or crawl spaces. You could be losing a lot more than 30% of the energy you’re using to heat and cool your home. Regular inspections are essential to identify leaks and other ductwork problems early, helping maintain system efficiency and comfort throughout your home.
The Duct Cleaning Process
Keeping your air ducts clean is a vital part of maintaining your HVAC system’s efficiency and ensuring your home stays comfortable year-round. Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can build up inside your duct system, leading to poor indoor air quality and forcing your system to work harder—driving up your energy bills.
The duct cleaning process starts with a thorough inspection of your ductwork. Professional technicians use specialized cameras and diagnostic tools to check for heavy dust buildup, hidden debris, and any signs of damage like holes, gaps, or loose joints. This inspection helps pinpoint areas that need extra attention and ensures that the cleaning process is as effective as possible.
Once the inspection is complete, the cleaning begins. Technicians use powerful vacuums and rotating brushes to dislodge and remove dust, dirt, and other particles from the inside of your air ducts. This step is crucial for improving airflow and preventing the circulation of allergens and contaminants throughout your home.
But duct cleaning doesn’t stop at just removing debris. To help prevent future problems, technicians may apply mastic sealant or foil tape to seal up any small leaks, holes, or gaps they find during the process. Mastic sealant is a putty-like substance that adheres well to various materials and is suited for sealing small- to medium-sized gaps in ductwork. Latex sealant is another option; it is water-based and remains flexible after curing, making it suitable for accommodating duct movement. Properly sealing these trouble spots not only keeps conditioned air where it belongs but also helps prevent mold growth and pest infestations—common issues in neglected ductwork.
It’s important to remember that duct cleaning is not a one-and-done solution. Regular air duct maintenance is key to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly. The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, including the age and condition of your duct system, the presence of pets, recent renovations, and whether anyone in your household suffers from allergies.
Investing in professional duct cleaning offers a range of benefits: you’ll enjoy lower energy bills, better indoor air quality, and a reduced risk of mold and other pests taking up residence in your ducts. Plus, a clean duct system can extend the lifespan of your HVAC equipment and help keep every room in your home comfortable. Having ducts cleaned is recommended every 2 to 3 years for optimal performance.
As for cost, the average price for a comprehensive duct cleaning service typically ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the size and complexity of your ductwork and the level of contamination. While this may seem like a significant investment, the long-term savings on energy bills and the peace of mind that comes with a healthier home make it well worth considering. Air duct inspection costs range from $75 to $175, essential for identifying issues.
By making duct cleaning a regular part of your home maintenance routine, you’re taking a proactive step toward a more efficient HVAC system, lower energy costs, and a cleaner, healthier living environment.
Best Solutions for Sealing Leaky Ducts
Localized damage can be repaired; duct repair and ductwork repair are common services for addressing these issues. Widespread deterioration may necessitate replacement, and duct replacement is often recommended when repairs are not sufficient. Duct Armor is a protective lining installed inside HVAC ducts that seals leaks and provides insulation while increasing durability. Patch ductwork is another method, involving covering holes and gaps with duct materials and sealing them with caulk or mastic for a temporary fix. How can you tell if you should have your ducts checked? Get help if you hear funny noises such as whistling or rattling from the ducts, if your heating and cooling bills seem too high, if your furnace and AC run too much of the time, or if you notice odd smells, uneven heating and cooling, or poor airflow from some or all of your vents. It is important to have a professional inspect your ductwork to diagnose leaks, damages, or other problems that may impact your HVAC system’s efficiency. Repairs can include fixing leaks, duct sealing to close gaps, and replacing damaged sections. Advanced solutions such as duct armor can be used to seal and protect ducts, preventing moisture damage and improving durability. Timely air duct repairs and regular ductwork repair help maintain your HVAC system’s efficiency and indoor air quality. 24-Hour Home Comfort Services provides these solutions, including repairing, duct sealing, duct replacement, and duct armor installation, throughout the greater Madison area. Freshen up your ducts for fall to improve airflow and system performance.
You can always count on 24-Hour Home Comfort Services, your heating and cooling specialists.