We all know that air ducts play a big role in keeping the air in our homes fresh and clean. But sometimes, they can run into problems. If your air ducts are having issues, it could be affecting your comfort, energy bills, and even your health.
Read this blog to learn about the five most common air duct problems, what causes them, and how you can fix them.
Common Air Duct Issues
1. Clogged Ducts and Poor Airflow
It’s easy to forget about air ducts, but they are constantly working to move air throughout your home. Dust, debris, and even pet hair can clog your air ducts, blocking airflow. This is especially common if you don’t clean them regularly.
What happens?
When your ducts get clogged, you’ll notice that the air in your home doesn’t feel as consistent. You might find some rooms are colder or hotter than others. Your HVAC system also works harder, which leads to higher energy bills.
How to fix it?
The best way to fix this is with professional air duct cleaning. A pro will clean out all the dust, dirt, and debris that has built up over time. Regular cleanings can prevent this problem from happening in the first place.
2. Leaky Ducts
Leaky ducts are a sneaky issue. You might not even realize you have them until your energy bills spike. Over time, ducts can develop small leaks or cracks, often from age or poor installation.
What happens?
When there’s a leak, warm or cool air escapes before it reaches your rooms. This means your HVAC system has to work overtime to keep your home comfortable. You may also notice an increase in dust or air quality issues.
How to fix it?
If you suspect you have leaky ducts, it’s important to have them inspected. A professional air duct inspection can seal the leaks, which helps improve your air quality, save energy, and prevent dust from entering your home. This simple fix can make a huge difference!
3. Mold Growth in Ducts
Mold in your ducts can be a major health concern. If there’s moisture in your ducts from leaks or high humidity, mold can start to grow. This is especially common in older homes or areas with high moisture levels.
What happens?
When mold grows in your air ducts, it can spread to other areas of your home, causing a musty smell and triggering allergies or respiratory problems. Mold can also clog your ducts, making it harder for air to flow through.
How to fix it?
To fix mold in your air ducts, you need to act fast. Mold should be removed by a professional to ensure it’s properly handled. Regular air duct cleaning can help prevent mold from growing as it keeps moisture and debris under control.
4. Rodents and Pests in the Ducts
No one wants to think about critters in their ducts, but unfortunately, it happens. Rodents and other pests can find their way into your air ducts, especially if there are gaps or holes in the system.
What happens?
When pests get into your ducts, they can leave behind droppings, nests, and other debris that can block airflow. Not only does this affect the quality of the air in your home, but it can also create an unhealthy environment. In severe cases, pests can chew through ducts, causing more leaks.
How to fix it?
The first step in fixing this problem is getting rid of the pests. After that, you’ll need a professional to clean your ducts and make repairs. If you have a rodent or pest problem, regular inspections and air duct cleaning will help keep your system pest-free.
5. Dirty HVAC System Components
Your air ducts aren’t the only part of your HVAC system that needs attention. The components of your system, such as the blower, coils, and filters, can get dirty too. This buildup can cause your system to lose efficiency.
What happens?
If your HVAC components are dirty, the system has to work harder to push air through your ducts. This can lead to poor airflow, higher energy costs, and an increase in dust and allergens circulating through your home.
How to fix it?
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and cleaning to get your system back to working properly. Cleaning the coils and blower, replacing filters, and performing a full system checkup will help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This will not only improve your air quality but also save you money in the long run.
Also Read: When do you need to get your air ducts disinfected?
Get Your Ducts Professionally Cleaned by Alpha Clean Air
If you’re experiencing any of the problems listed above, it might be time to call in the professionals. At Alpha Clean Air, we specialize in air duct cleaning and solve these issues before they get out of hand. Whether it’s clogged ducts, leaks, or mold, we have the tools and experience to make sure your home’s air quality stays in top shape. Contact us today to schedule a cleaning and ensure your air ducts are in perfect condition.
