What You Need to Know about Your HVAC Air Ducts

If you live in Arizona, you know the summer heat is no joke. Temperatures routinely soar above 100°F, making air conditioning an absolute necessity rather than a luxury. But did you know that damaged or outdated HVAC ductwork could be forcing your home’s AC to work harder than it needs to? This increased strain can not only lead to higher energy bills; it can also shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. The good news is, there are simple steps you can take to improve ductwork efficiency and lower those sky-high cooling costs.

Ductwork Leaks

The biggest issue with leaky, damaged, or aging ductwork is that it causes cooled air to escape before it can circulate through your home. According to Energy.gov, homes with ductwork leaks can lose up to 30% of the air moving through the system. Those leaks force your AC to run longer cycles to achieve the desired temperature, consuming more energy.

Hot Air and Dust

Improperly sealed ducts also create opportunities for hot attic air and dust to infiltrate the system. When that super-heated air seeps in, it makes the AC work even harder to cool your home’s air to the thermostat setting. The dust that comes in can also clog components like the air filter, further reducing efficiency.

Professional Inspection

So, what can you do to prevent duct leaks from driving up your electricity bills? First, have your local HVAC professionals inspect your ductwork to identify any leaks, disconnections, or other damage. They can then properly seal any openings using mastic sealant or metal tape. Insulating exposed ducts is another way to minimize cooled air loss and improve efficiency.
Another smart move is to ensure your ducts are the correct size for your HVAC system. Improperly sized ducts can restrict airflow, causing your system to underperform. During a duct replacement, your local contractor can calculate and install the ideal duct sizing for your home’s cooling needs.

Call Bruce’s

We’re your local HVAC experts with decades of experience evaluating and repairing ductwork. Fixing duct leaks will result in cooled air being evenly distributed throughout your home all year long. Your AC unit will be blowing air where it needs to go, saving you money on your monthly utility bills. Call Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating at 480-968-5652 today to schedule your appointment. We’re here for you 24/7, including holidays.