Signs of Aging Ductwork

The overall efficiency of the HVAC system in your Florida home depends not only on the health of your heating and cooling equipment but also on the condition of your air ducts. Old ductwork can have airflow restrictions, leaks, or other problems that reduce heating and cooling efficiency, increase your energy costs, and make your home less comfortable.

Here are some of the common signs of old ductwork:

Inconsistent Airflow

Ideally, the ducts in similarly-sized rooms should have the same amount of airflow. If one or more rooms has low or inconsistent airflow, it may be a sign that your air ducts have restrictions, such as sections that are crushed or blocked, or the ducts may have joints that are leaking or disconnected.

Inconsistent Temperatures

If the temperature of the air produced at one or more vents is warmer or cooler than others, the ducts may have air leaks or insufficient insulation.

High Energy Bills

If your HVAC system is well-maintained and in good condition, energy bills that are higher than normal may be the result of duct problems, such as air leaks or airflow restrictions.

Physical Damage

In some homes, the ductwork is exposed and can be seen easily in the attic, basement or crawlspace. Check the ducts for signs of physical damage, such as missing insulation, loose tape or mastic, disconnected joints, or crushed sections. Carefully check around the joints for corrosion or dust streaks, which could indicate air leaks or other problems.

Advanced Age

If the ductwork in your home is over 15 years old, it is likely that there are hidden problems, such as air leaks, blockages, or physical damage. After about 15 years many of the materials will begin to degrade, and many older systems were not designed for energy efficiency, so it may be worth replacing the ductwork, even if it is in relatively good condition.

If you find any of these signs of old ductwork, talk to our team at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating to determine the best options for replacement. We serve the Martin, Palm Beach and St. Lucie County areas.