Defective HVAC Ductwork and the Problems it Can Cause

Contrary to public opinion, defective ductwork is not solely a problem owned by older homes. Improper installation and defective parts can also cause ductwork to not operate efficiently, and since this ductwork is housed within your walls, it may be hard to detect any problems right away, but they can include:

• Reduced heating/cooling efficiency
• Reduced air quality
• Promotion of mold/mildew growth in walls
• Rise in utility costs

In short, in an effort to maintain a consistent temperature, your HVAC system will continue to run with the goal of reaching that temperature, even in the event of broken ductwork, fruitless as it is. As it does so, the escaping air creates a concentration of contaminants in one specific area near the breach. This is where the moisture will have a chance to gain a foothold and flourish, and by the time you notice, it may be too late and costly to do anything about it.

Immediate Signs that Your Ductwork May Be Faulty

So what are some clues that you can look for that maybe your ductwork could stand for an inspection? Some would include:

• Ventilation from a downstairs room getting trapped in an upstairs room. 
• Clanging, rattling operation
• High energy bills
• Abnormal dust buildup
• Odors and/or stagnant air

Also, if you walk around your house and notice that some spots are hotter/colder than others, that could indicate leaky ducts.

Every Room Has Its Own Signs of Poor/Broken Ventilation

Not all rooms of your home are created equally, and this also includes the signs of poor ventilation. While mold and mildew are pretty universal signs, others like rust and bubbling paint may be exclusive to only specific areas of your home. 

For example, barring any catastrophic water leaks, if you go down into your basement and are greeted with the pungent odor of mold and mildew, it may be a sign that your foundation vents need to be replaced.

Or what about the room above the kitchen that mysteriously gets filled with smoke whenever you vent it? That is a sign that there is a break in your ductwork and it’s time to get it repaired.

Health Complications of Not Repairing Your Ductwork

Aside from the catastrophic damage that you would be causing to your home, the damage to you and your family’s health is another thing. Certain strains of mold can trigger allergic reactions in people, and can aggravate the symptoms of those suffering from asthma, COPD, and other chronic breathing problems.

How FAMCO Can Help

FAMCO is one of the largest distributors and manufacturers of HVAC equipment and accessories in the Pacific Northwest. We have HVAC dampers, Soffit Vents, Pipe Flashing, Wall Vents, and Chimney Caps to suit any budget, taste, or need. If you have any questions or concerns about how FAMCO can help you get your ductwork back in line, please give us a call or shoot us an email. We will be more than happy to help.