Most people need to give more care to their ductwork. Damage to your ductwork leads to leaking conditioned air, thus making your system inefficient. The leaks force your air conditioner and furnace to work harder to adequately heat or cool your home, thus increasing your energy costs. The following takes a closer look at how leaks in your ductwork can cost you.
Regular Air Filter Replacements
Air filters ensure that the air circulating throughout your home is free of debris and other contaminants. Once your ductwork gets worn out and begins leaking, these leaks allow contaminants inside your system. This means your air filter will get clogged due to debris more often. The clogging forces you to keep replacing the air filters more frequently than you are used to, leading to higher maintenance costs.
Poor Airflow
Tears in your ductwork cause uneven heating and cooling throughout your home. These leaks reduce airflow, creating hot and cold spots. Your HVAC system will also strain as it tries to supply your home with adequate conditioned air. Also, leaks allow dust and other contaminants to penetrate your ductwork, restricting airflow. Thus, you may spend more to keep your home comfortable if you have leaky ductwork.
Higher Energy Costs
Ductwork leaks can make your HVAC system lose up to 30% of the conditioned air supply. With so much air being lost, the system must work harder to ensure your home is comfortable. Leaks interfere with the circulation of air inside your home. Therefore, you may be forced to run your unit longer, increasing your energy costs.
Poor Air Quality
Leaks allow dust, pollen, and other allergens to enter your home. Pollutants and pests can also get into your ductwork, worsening indoor air quality. If there is anyone who suffers from severe allergies or other respiratory diseases in your house, leaky ductwork can be a serious issue. You can improve your air quality by having you ducts inspected and repaired if they contain leaks.
Increased Wear on Your HVAC System
Your ducts works alongside other HVAC components to ensure your home is efficiently cooled or heated. Leaks increase the workload on your system, causing its various components to get worn out more quickly than they would otherwise. The HVAC system might require repairs more frequently due to the worn-out parts, and you could find yourself facing a system replacement sooner than necessary.
An energy-efficient HVAC system is vital in keeping your energy costs in check. The various problems arising from leaks in your ductwork can cost you more money than intended for the care of your heating and cooling units. It is important to have your HVAC system regularly maintained to prevent risks from leaks. If you notice signs that might indicate duct leaks, contact Upland Servicing for HVAC services in Joplin, MO or the surrounding area.
