4 Ways Duct Leaks Can Noticeably Impact Your Home Comfort

Though most people know the importance of regular heating maintenance, they’re surprised to learn that their ductwork requires maintenance as well. Add routine ductwork checkups to your Spring Cleaning To Do List and ensure your family has ample time to enjoy this upcoming spring without the stress of high energy bills, discomfort or duct replacement.

4 Ways Duct Leaks Deteriorate Your Home Comfort

Pollution

Whether your ducts are disconnected, torn, cracked or otherwise leaking, undesirable pollutants can easily get into your home, significantly diminishing your indoor air quality. This leads to unpleasant smells and extra dusting and sweeping; they can also lead to lasting health issues like asthma, sinusitis and other respiratory problems. Contact a specialist to schedule a duct inspection to ensure your family is safe from indoor pollution.

Poor Humidity Control

Pollutants aren’t the only thing a leaky duct system can pull in from outside. Excess moisture can also enter your system and contribute to the development of mold and mildew. Mold is not only unsightly but can also lead to respiratory issues, chronic migraine and even some cancers. Plus, a musty odor will inevitably permeate your home, and no one wants a moldy house to define their reputation in the neighborhood.

Whistling Sounds

You may think those pesky whistling noises are a result of an aging infrastructure, especially if your house is a bit older; however, it could just as easily be the result of leaky ductwork. When there are leaks in your ductwork, pressurized air quickly moves through the cracks, causing a high pitched sound as the air escapes. Not only can this whistling distract you from a task or keep you awake at night, but it could be a sign of an already existing leak. If you hear whistling coming from your ducts, have a professional assess them for possible repairs.

Inefficiency

The purpose of air ducts is to deliver conditioned air to your rooms so your family can stay comfortable during any season. However, if there is a crack in your ductwork, air that is meant to circulate throughout your living space will instead be released into your walls, attic and crawlspace. Because of this, your heating and cooling system will have to work much harder to service your home. This wastes significant energy and can increase your heating and cooling costs by as much as 30%! Have a specialist check your ductwork for leaks so you can put the money you save towards a fun-filled summer instead of a duct replacement.

Here at Comfort First, we want to keep you and your family comfortable while reducing your energy bills as much as possible. Give us a call at any of our five North Carolina locations and we will assess your entire HVAC system, including your ducts. If your ductwork is an issue, we’ll make sure to solve the problem before it gets any worse!