Having damaged ductwork can be a major issue for any homeowner. Not only does it lead to air escaping instead of being carried to the intended area, but it can also result in higher utility bills and the need for timely repair work. If you think your system is malfunctioning or not working as efficiently as it should, it's important to contact a certified RESNET home energy evaluator or auditor, who will inspect your home to identify areas that need repair or are leaking. Domestic ducts, while solidly constructed, are easily damaged under certain conditions.
The most common cause of damage is when a part of the duct is bent or broken. This network of ducts that runs through your house and brings air to every room may be what keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, but if the ducts are damaged, you're wasting energy, which is only costing you money. If you consider yourself a very skilled person and you want to take on the challenge of repairing or replacing some of the ducts in your house, here are some tips you should know. Before attempting any repairs, it's important to ask yourself a few questions (and statements) to make sure you're prepared for the job. There are a few things to consider before trying to repair your air ducts on your own:
- Clean the ducts - Whenever you're trying to repair or replace a duct, it's a good idea to clean it.
- Check the size - A home with properly sized ductwork will have average to lower utility bills, lower average costs associated with energy-efficient equipment, such as repair costs, and less likely to have ducts replaced in the future.
- Consider labor costs - These are typically the lowest-cost ducts in a home, and labor will usually make up the majority of the repair bill.
- Understand why repairs are needed - For example, undersized ductwork causes the heating or cooling of certain rooms to be uneven, which can result in considerably higher utility bills, the need for timely repair work and, possibly, problems with ducts throughout the system.
Duct repair can be done by a homeowner or a professional, but it's a great advantage for the homeowner to understand why their ducts need to be repaired. When repairing damaged ducts, it's important to take into account all of these factors. It's also important to use proper tools and materials when repairing or replacing any part of your air duct system. If you're not sure how to do this yourself, it's best to contact a professional who can help you with this task. In conclusion, repairing damaged air ducts is an important task that should not be taken lightly. It's important to understand why repairs are needed and what tools and materials are necessary for the job.
It's also important to consider labor costs and make sure that all parts are properly sized. If you're not sure how to do this yourself, it's best to contact a professional who can help you with this task.
