Houses equipped with forced air heating and cooling systems rely on ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout the house. In the average home, about thirty percent of heated/cooled air is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts. Problems with the duct system results in higher than necessary utility bills and hard maintaining a comfortable temperature. An increase in monthly utility bills, rooms that are difficult to heat and cool, excess humidity and airborne dust are signs of leaky ducts. It’s a good idea to have the duct system inspected by a qualified and reputable HVAC technician ever three to five years. Whether there’s a buildup of debris within the ducts, holes, or leaks at the seams, the repair is cost-effective. The cleaning or sealing process is not overly invasive, is usually completed within a few hours, and saves a great deal of money. Properly operating ducts no only trim costs but reduce wear and tear on the furnace and air conditioner. By eliminating energy waste and restriction of airflow, the heating and cooling system runs at peak capacity for shorter cycles, minimizing the chance of malfunction and extending service life. Plus, clean, effectively sealed ducts promote a cleaner, healthier and more comfortable living environment. There’s less chance of backdrafting of combustion byproducts from appliances such as the water heater, furnace, and clothes dryer. The influx of outside contaminants, such as exhaust fumes, pollen, and pesticides is avoided. While the duct system is typically tucked out of sight, inside ceilings, walls, or crawl spaces, it should never be overlooked.
The different types of thermostats