How to Fix Broken Air Ducts
Your HVAC system consists of various components, and every single one contributes to your air quality and comfort. Ducts are often overlooked, but issues with ductwork can prevent your system from operating efficiently.
To help you understand your AC ducts, we’ll look at:
- Signs your ducts might be broken
- Common causes of duct damage
- Temporary fixes for minor issues
- Long-term solutions with professional help
- Best practices for duct maintenance
Keep reading to learn more about diagnosing and repairing your HVAC ducts.
Improve Your Home’s Efficiency With Expert Duct Solutions
For more than 40 years, Champion Air has helped Arizona residents navigate hot summers and cool winters by keeping their HVAC systems running. Our comprehensive HVAC services include AC repair, heating installation, and even duct sealing services. If you’re experiencing uneven heating or cooling, high energy bills, or other problems, such as weak airflow, it may be time to schedule a visit from Champion Air.
Signs Your Ducts Might Be Broken
Your air ducts funnel air from the outside unit throughout your home. When those ducts break down or begin to wear, you may see signs that indicate it’s time for an assessment, including:
- Uneven heating or cooling across your home (hot spots or cold spots)
- Unusually high energy bills that don’t make sense given your usage patterns and/or the season
- Issues with indoor air quality, such as increased dust or allergy symptoms
- Weak airflow from the system’s vents
- Strange noises coming from the vents, such as consistent whistling or rattling when the system is on
The sooner you spot these signs and get help, the more likely it is that your HVAC technicians can catch minor issues before they worsen.
Common Causes of Duct Damage
Several factors can lead to duct issues, including:
- Age. Ductwork can naturally break down over time due to normal wear and tear. Regular maintenance helps spot problems early and prevent issues from arising.
- Pest infestations. If pests enter your ductwork, they can leave debris that can clog vents and decrease air quality.
- Physical damage. Physical damage from renovations can go unseen until you call in experts who know what to look for.
- Climate. Arizona’s climate includes frequent temperature swings, especially day to night, which can cause materials to expand and contract. This could lead to immediate breakage or, more likely, accelerate ordinary wear and tear.
Temporary Fixes for Minor Issues
Using these simple DIY duct repair steps, you can temporarily address minor duct problems.
- Examine the ducts. Look for visible gaps that could create leaks. Limit yourself to accessible duct areas.
- Seal any holes or tears. Use foil tape or mastic sealant to seal up openings caused by damage or deterioration.
- Check duct connections. Secure all duct connections to ensure a snug fit and prevent air loss.
- Replace your filters. Clean or replace clogged air filters to improve efficiency and reduce strain on your HVAC system.
Remember, these are short-term fixes. You may still require professional intervention to complete more complex or comprehensive repairs.
Long-Term Solutions With Professional Help
The HVAC experts at Champion Air are trained to deal with duct issues effectively and efficiently. Starting with a thorough inspection, our team reviews the connections between the vents and their condition to reveal any hidden problems. Tools, including hidden cameras, get into even the ductwork’s darkest and most recessed corners.
Depending on what they discover, your technicians may recommend sealing, insulating, or replacing part or all of the ductwork. Following through on these recommendations can have several benefits, including improved efficiency, lower utility bills, and more reliable heating and cooling in the years to come.
Best Practices for Duct Maintenance
The best thing you can do for your HVAC system, including ducts, is schedule regular inspections. Identifying wear and tear and damage early could mean the difference between a quick repair or extensive replacements—schedule routine duct cleanings to extend the life of your system.
Don’t Let Broken Ducts Cost You — Call Champion Air Today!
When you need help with duct sealing services, trust the company with thousands of 5-star reviews and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Champion Air has a well-earned reputation for excellence, including stellar customer service and fast, reliable repairs. Call today to see how we can clean and seal your ducts, putting leaky and damaged components in the past and your comfort first.
