FOUR COMMON CAUSES OF DUCTWORK DAMAGE
- DUCT AGE. Whether your ducts are made from a softer flex material or composed of a harder metal or plastic, every form...
- HEAVY IMPACT. Believe it or not, sections of your ducts may have collapsed or been crushed over time. This is...
- ANIMAL DAMAGE. During the blistering heat of a southern California summer or the brisk chill of a...
What happens when your HVAC ducts leak?
According to Energy Star, “about 20% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.” Ductwork leaks cause your HVAC system to work harder. In addition to losing conditioned air, if the ducts aren’t tight enough, negative air pressure can suck in dirty air.
What happens if you have a hole in the ductwork?
In a supply duct the result is higher heating or cooling costs. In a return air duct a hole such as the one shown in our photo can cause unhealthy or unsafe conditions by drawing other unanticipated air into the duct system (in this case next to a crawl space vent we are basically heating outdoor air and blowing it into the living area).
What happens if air ducts are not tight?
In addition to losing conditioned air, if the ducts aren’t tight enough, negative air pressure can suck in dirty air. Air duct leaks are especially problematic in basements, crawlspaces, garages, and attics. Look for cracks, gaps, and poor connections around all of your air duct seams.
What is mechanical damage to HVAC ducts?
Mechanically-damaged HVAC ducts: This article describes damaged HVAC ducts due to some mechanical activity such as stepping on a duct and crushing it, or improper and too-aggressive duct cleaning methods that damage duct interior surfaces, liners, or binding resins.
How do you fix a collapsed air duct?
1:113:36HVAC - Collapsed Return Duct - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLiner they're up hide peel back this insulation splice the duct back together work the insulation.MoreLiner they're up hide peel back this insulation splice the duct back together work the insulation.
How do I know if my ductwork needs to be replaced?
Signs That You Need Air Duct ReplacementNoisy HVAC Operation. ... High Energy Bills. ... Uneven Heating or Cooling. ... Having A Dusty Home. ... Smelling Mold and Mildew in Your House. ... Having A Problem with Pests. ... Having Respiratory Problems. ... Seeing Debris Around The Vents.More items...•
What can go wrong with ductwork?
Hot and Cold Spots, Inconsistent Room Temperatures Undersized ducts and grilles restrict airflow and may be the cause of your comfort and temperature problems. If you notice loud airflow and strange noises such as whistling and popping, you may have improperly sized ducts or blocked vents and registers.
How long should ductwork last?
Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
How often should you change ductwork?
“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
Can I replace ductwork myself?
Ductwork: Choose Your Installer Wisely It is possible to install HVAC ductwork yourself, but it will require research and willingness to pay attention to detail. Be sure to educate yourself on the intricacies of the work so that you can be sure that you do not inhibit the airflow.
How do you know if ductwork is bad?
Common Signs of Bad DuctworkOld Ductwork. ... Insufficient Airflow. ... Poor Cooling Performance. ... Punctures, Dents, or Leaks. ... Odorous Air or Mold. ... Noisy AC Operation. ... Poor Design or Installation. ... Take the Guesswork Out of Maintenance.
How do I check my ductwork?
Turn your HVAC system on and return to the areas where ductwork is accessible. Check the connections between each section of duct, placing your hand over the metal. If you feel air against your hand, the connection is loose and there is an air leak. A common place for leaks is the duct joints.
How can you tell if you have a leaky duct?
How Can I Tell if My Air Ducts Are Leaking?Unexplained Higher Energy Bills. ... Uneven Heating and/or Cooling Throughout Your Home. ... Difficulty Heating Rooms in Winter and Cooling them in Summer. ... Excessive Amount of Dust in Your Home. ... Duct Visual Indications––Rusted, Crushed, Kinked, Old Tape at Seals.More items...•
How much does it cost for ductwork?
Ductwork installation costs typically range between $459 and $6,000. The national average price for duct installation is $3,067. However, you might pay over $15,000 for a new ductwork installation in aggravating circumstances.
How hard is it to replace ductwork?
Replacing a small section or sections of HVAC ductwork can easily be done with a bit of knowledge and research, however replacing or repairing an entire HVAC ductwork system might require a higher level of expertise.
How do you fix ductwork under a house?
5:558:31How to fix tear in ductwork! Easy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou want to take the other piece of ductwork. You want to go inside of it. And you want to make sureMoreYou want to take the other piece of ductwork. You want to go inside of it. And you want to make sure that you get to insight lining. And go ahead and pull this one back down they'll need it for now.
How can you tell if you have a leaky duct?
How Can I Tell if My Air Ducts Are Leaking?Unexplained Higher Energy Bills. ... Uneven Heating and/or Cooling Throughout Your Home. ... Difficulty Heating Rooms in Winter and Cooling them in Summer. ... Excessive Amount of Dust in Your Home. ... Duct Visual Indications––Rusted, Crushed, Kinked, Old Tape at Seals.More items...•
How do you check for duct leaks?
Turn your HVAC system on and return to the areas where ductwork is accessible. Check the connections between each section of duct, placing your hand over the metal. If you feel air against your hand, the connection is loose and there is an air leak. A common place for leaks is the duct joints.
How hard is it to replace ductwork?
Replacing a small section or sections of HVAC ductwork can easily be done with a bit of knowledge and research, however replacing or repairing an entire HVAC ductwork system might require a higher level of expertise.
Do you need to replace ductwork when replacing AC?
The best time to replace your duct work is when you are replacing your AC unit. All contractors can easily retro fit your AC unit to your duct work. However, when you replace the whole thing you you don't handicap your new system with old duct work. Mismatched systems can be very inefficient.
Why do ducts need to be maintained?
Like the rest of your air conditioning system, your ducts also need to be carefully maintained in order to prevent air leaks that can harm system efficiency and cost you a ton in the long run . Duct damage can come from a number of different common causes, and in order to help you avoid them, this blog will discuss four of ...
What happens when you run with hot air?
The constant expansion and contraction from running with hot air during cold times (or vice versa) will cause even the most weather and climate-resistant materials to eventually grow old and brittle, leading to cracks, gaps and holes.
Can ducts collapse over time?
HEAVY IMPACT. Believe it or not, sections of your ducts may have collapsed or been crushed over time. This is particularly true for segments of your ducts that run through your attic or garage, where things are often stored on top of or near exposed ducts.
Do Southern California homes have ducts?
Most homes in southern California do, so this shouldn’t come as a surprise . If you’re like the majority of other homeowners, your system relies on a network of carefully-placed ducts that run cooled or heated air to the many various rooms of your home.
Can animals use ducts in the winter?
During the blistering heat of a southern California summer or the brisk chill of a winter night, animals will seek out whatever comfort they can, and for some, your ducts are an ideal shelter. They’re dark, undisturbed, usually extremely warm in winter, and even downright cold during the blistering summer months.
Why is my HVAC ductwork damaged?
When there is damage to the ventilation system in your house, you can have higher energy bills, uneven temperatures, and poor indoor air quality. From age to animals to mold, there could be a few reasons why your ducts are damaged. Regular maintenance and ductwork repair will ensure ...
Why is my ductwork leaking?
If you are experiencing increased energy bills, reduced airflow, inconsistent temperatures, or poor indoor air quality, you could have damage to your ductwork.
How to avoid duct problems?
To avoid ductwork problems, it should be regularly cleaned, inspected, and repaired. If your aging ducts haven’t been regularly maintained, you probably have a few damaged spots that could be making it harder to keep your home comfortable. 2. Accident or Impact.
What happens if ductwork runs through a crawl space?
Animals. If your ductwork runs through a crawl space, it could be at risk for damage from small rodents or other animals that make their way under your home. During periods of seasonal climate change, animals could find shelter in your crawl space or attic.
How long does ductwork last?
Duct Age. No matter what material your ducts are made out of, all ductwork will begin to wear out with age. On average an HVAC system lasts 10-15 years. The same is true for ductwork. As it begins to age, however, the continued expansion and contraction from running hot and cold air will lead to cracks, gaps, and holes.
What is the purpose of HVAC system?
For your HVAC system to deliver quality air throughout your home , the ventilation system must be airtight. Once your air conditioner or heater turns on, the air travels through several filters and a network of pipes and junctions known as your ductwork. If the ducts sustain any damage over time, they can start to leak air.
Why is my HVAC system working harder?
Ultimately, this will cause your HVAC system to work harder and create a reduction in heating and cooling. Damage to the ducts could also allow contamination and allergens to enter the ventilation system and circulate the house. From animals to accidents, there are several reasons behind damaged ductwork.
How does ductwork affect HVAC?
When portions of ductwork collapse, it can obstruct airflow and cause your HVAC system to work extra hard to balance the lack of circulated air. This problem will then raise your home’s utility bill. The good news, however, is that a strong HVAC system should last for many years. Also, if you have your air ducts cleaned regularly, it can help preserve their lifespan.
Can cold weather damage HVAC?
This time of year can be difficult for homeowners who are experiencing HVAC problems. Cold winter temperatures will quickly expose a damaged HVAC system. Your system depends on a network of air ducts to transport heated air to different rooms in your home. If your air ducts are damaged, they can cause poor air quality, uncomfortable temperatures, and increased utility costs. Today, Superior Air Duct Cleaning explains the common causes of ductwork damage and what you can do to avoid them.
Can mold grow in ductwork?
Some ducts are composed of wood or drywall, which are typical areas where mold likes to grow. As it grows, the mold can quickly spread throughout your duct system and be a major issue for your home. If black mold has been slowly eating away at your ductwork, it is probably time to replace the majority of it.
What happens to ducts when pressure increases?
If the internal pressure of a duct increases, the tendency of the material is to deform to increase the internal volume accordingly. However, if the duct wall is in the membrane state of stress, the resistance to this stretching is provided by the strength of the material involved. Because a cylindrical duct is a convex, closed surface, it cannot increase its volume any further without stretching; thus, additional pressure results in additional stress in the duct wall. The wall can accommodate this stress up to a point without deforming permanently. However, if the internal pressure continues to rise, the wall will ultimately yield and/or fracture, rupturing the duct. 5
How does a combustible dust cloud expand?
If a large combustible dust cloud is ignited at its center, a flame will propagate outwards in a radial direction. This radial expansion will continue until either the flame reaches the edge of the dust cloud or it encounters a solid boundary. If the dust flame propagates inside a duct or channel, the dynamic behavior of the flame changes. The duct confines the flame and the hot combustion products thus preventing the three-dimensional expansion process. Instead, the flame and combustion products can expand in only one direction. Because the fluid medium—air—is a compressible medium, the gas velocity increases as the hot gaseous combustion products expand. The expansion process causes an acceleration of the flame speed, which results in turbulence. 1 The turbulent mixing of the flow field causes the mass burning rate to increase. This leads to a positive feedback loop with flame speed, turbulent mixing, mass burning rate, and gas expansion rate all increasing. This process is illustrated in Fig. 1.
What happens when a dust deflagration occurs?
However, a different type of damage is sometimes observed in the ductwork connecting process equipment. In particular, the ductwork is collapsed as if it were subjected to an external, rather than an internal pressure. The phenomenon that causes this collapse of thin-walled conduit is a gas dynamic process called an expansion wave. When a dust deflagration travels through a conduit, it accelerates and causes a rise in pressure. When the dust deflagration is vented (say through a deflagration vent), the discharge of the high-pressure combustion products causes the formation of an expansion wave that travels in the reverse direction of the original discharge. The expansion wave causes the pressure in the ductwork to fall below atmospheric pressure. The sub-atmospheric pressure, in turn, causes the ductwork to fail by buckling. In this study, we examine the gas dynamics of the expansion wave, demonstrate how to calculate the degree of pressure drop caused by the expansion wave, and illustrate the concept with case studies of dust explosions.
Why do ducts leak?
If you are suffering from allergies and other problems associated with an excessive amount of dust, you may have ductwork with considerable leaks. The leaks in your ductwork not only release conditioned air, they also allow air, dust, and debris in. Signs of leaky air ducts include: High energy bills.
Why does my HVAC system lose air?
According to Energy Star, “about 20% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.”. Ductwork leaks cause your HVAC system to work harder. In addition to losing conditioned air, if the ducts aren’t tight enough, negative air pressure can suck in dirty air.
What happens if you have a bunch of ducts?
If your ductwork has a bunch of air leaks and poorly designed duct systems, you will definitely have worse indoor air quality and higher energy bills than those with sealed and insulated ducts. Below are some commons signs of poorly installed ductwork.
Where do ducts run?
Ductwork runs through basements, attics, crawlspaces, or garages. You notice tangled, loose, collapsed, or damaged ducts. If you notice any leaking air ducts, schedule duct testing immediately. Your HVAC technician will pressurize the duct system to pinpoint any leaks that are present.
How to check air ducts?
In addition to checking air ducts for kinks and damage, check the following: 1 Clean air filter 2 Minimum 2-foot clearance around outdoor condenser unit 3 Open and unobstructed vents and registers 4 At least one support every 4 feet for flex ducts 5 Annual professional heating and air conditioning maintenance
Where are air ducts leaking?
Air duct leaks are especially problematic in basements, crawlspaces, garages, and attics. Look for cracks, gaps, and poor connections around all of your air duct seams. Consider scheduling professional air duct sealing if you suspect leaky ducts.
What is the difference between supply ducts and return ducts?
Every time you turn on the heating or air conditioning system, air flows in through supply ducts and out through return ducts. If your HVAC unit is the heart, supply ducts are the arteries (carrying blood to the heart) and return ducts are the veins (carrying blood back to the heart).
What causes ductwork to block airflow?
Loose insulation, animal or insect nests, dirt buildup, or other material inside the ductwork can block airflow and cause performance problems. For more information on correcting and preventing ductwork obstructions, contact us today at Sobieski Services, Inc.
What are the causes of HVAC problems?
3. Damaged ducts. Damage to ductwork at any point in the system can obstruct airflow and cause problems with HVAC system performance. Flexible ductwork can get creased or crushed, which will block air passage. Bent, dented or collapsed metal ductwork also can mean serious blockages. 4.
What is a closed damper?
Closed dampers. Dampers are designed to stop or reduce airflow within the ductwork. If they are completely or partially closed when they shouldn’t be, conditioned air will not pass through the ducts and into your home. Check any other damper systems you have to ensure they are completely open. 5.
What happens when an HVAC filter gets dirty?
When these filters get dirty, they restrict system airflow and impair system efficiency.
How does conditioned air enter a home?
Conditioned air enters your home through supply vents and expended air is pulled back into the system at return grilles. If these openings are blocked, needed air cannot enter the ductwork. Make sure they are not obstructed by furniture, clothing, boxes or other objects that can stop airflow.
What happens if your HVAC system is blocked?
When the ductwork in your HVAC system is blocked or obstructed, the performance of your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump will suffer. Here are some of the more common ductwork obstructions to watch out for. When these problems are corrected, your HVAC system should be able to work at its full capacity. 1.
Can ductwork leaks cause HVAC problems?
Ductwork air leaks. Not technically an obstruct ion, air leaks can nonetheless cause serious impairment to HVAC system performance. Broken seals, loose or missing ductwork segments, or other problems that let air escape the ductwork will reduce efficiency and waste energy. 6.
Why are return air inlets obstructed?
Return air inlets: Return air inlet grilles that are obstructed with dirt, debris, or furniture or that are improperly located or are just too small mean that because the heating or cooling system is "starved for air", the supply air flow into occupied spaces will also be reduced. See RETURN AIR REGISTERS & DUCTS.
What is rusted out duct?
The rusted out duct photo at left shows a common return air duct system in some older homes: space between the floor joists was used as an air passage, sometimes also for supply air.
Can you use flex ducts in HVAC?
Yes, normally flex-duct used in HVAC systems includes a plastic or vinyl interior liner and an external cover as well, leaving the fiberglass duct insulation sandwiched between the two. In my OPINION and based on your pictures.
Can flex duct work be cleaned?
This duct work cannot be cleaned - which is often the case even with lined flex-duct as the material is fragile enough to be damaged by many mechanical cleaning processes; It is possible (but by no means certain) that building air delivered through this system will have extra levels of fiberglass fragments.
Does duct cleaning company replace heat ducts?
FYI, the duct cleaning company sent a tech to inspect the damage to the main heat duct (which my local HVAC co estimated at $2500.00 to replace). Surprisingly, the duct cleaning co. is sending a contractor to replace the duct, including an insulation wrap - outside this time. - Anonymous, 11/11/2016
What happens when hot air comes into contact with cold metal ductwork?
When hot, humid air comes into contact with cold metal ductwork, that air is not going to be able to hold as much water vapor as it once could. As a result, water vapor will condense and settle on your ductwork.
What to do if ductwork is not insulated?
If poorly insulated ductwork is the problem, be sure to schedule ductwork maintenance and repairs with Home Energy Medics. We’ll seal and insulate your air ducts to keep the surface from becoming overly cool, which in turn will prevent condensation from forming.
Why does cold air condense into water?
This happens because cold air cannot hold as much moisture as warm air. Warm, moisture filled air comes into contact with the cold glass, forcing moisture in the air to condense into water droplets on the surface of the glass.
Can condensation cause a ceiling leak?
Dripping condensation may also lead to a ceiling leak, which not only looks bad but also rots drywall and can cause your ceiling to collapse over time. Then there is mold growth to consider, as mold thrives in wet, humid areas.
Is condensation on ductwork harmful?
Condensation on ductwork may seem harmless enough, but it actually harms the health of your home. Here’s what homeowners in Northern VA and DC need to know about sweating ductwork.