Author: Jeff O'Hara
Your home’s HVAC system relies on a network of ducts to distribute treated air from your furnace or air conditioner to vents in your walls and ceilings, ensuring consistent comfort in every room. Hidden behind walls, above ceilings, or tucked away in attics beneath layers of insulation; and as a result, we rarely think about it—until there’s an issue with the airflow or temperature in the home.
While heating problems are often blamed on a faulty furnace and cooling issues on our air conditioners, ductwork is frequently the culprit behind uneven temperatures or poor airflow. Issues like rips, punctures, loose clamps, or even collapsed sections of ductwork can significantly impact performance and efficiency.
That’s where Nick’s Air Conditioning comes in. Our team is ready to get into your attic, diagnose any ductwork problems—from leaks to blockages—and provide expert repairs or replacements to restore your HVAC system’s performance. We help ensure your ducts are in shape, which aids in keeping your home comfortable year-round.
What Are HVAC Ducts Made Of?
The three most common types of residential ductwork are sheet metal ducts, fiberglass duct boards, and flex ducts. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right type for your home’s needs is essential.
Sheet Metal Ducts
Sheet metal ducts are typically made of galvanized steel or aluminum, offering exceptional durability and longevity. Thanks to their non-porous surface, they resist mold and mildew growth. However, they can be more expensive and require precise measurements and skilled labor for proper installation. With proper maintenance, sheet metal ducts can have a 50-year lifespan, making them an excellent investment for long-term reliability.
Fiberglass Duct Board
Fiberglass duct board is constructed from compressed fiberglass sheets coated with a protective foil layer. These ducts provide excellent insulation, reducing energy loss and dampening noise from airflow. However, the porous nature of fiberglass can make it susceptible to mold growth over time if moisture is present, and the material is less durable than sheet metal. Fiberglass duct board typically has a lifespan of around 20-30 years, depending on conditions and maintenance.
Flex Ducts
Flex ducts are made of a flexible plastic tube surrounded by a metal coil and covered with insulation. These ducts are lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to install, making them popular for tight or awkward spaces. However, they are more prone to damage, such as tears or sagging, and have a shorter lifespan of around 10-20 years. While convenient, flex ducts require careful installation to avoid airflow restrictions or leaks.
Choosing the proper ductwork for your home depends on budget, space constraints, and long-term goals. Sheet metal ducts stand out for durability and performance, but fiberglass duct boards and flex ducts offer advantages in insulation and flexibility.
What Can Go Wrong with My HVAC Ducts?
Since your HVAC system’s ductwork constantly delivers either heated or cooled air throughout your home, it is expected to experience some wear and tear, especially if you have flex ducts. Over time, the outer lining of flex ducts can deteriorate due to age, exposure to extreme temperature swings, or high humidity levels—conditions common in Houston’s climate.
This can lead to tears or cracks that allow treated air to escape before reaching your living spaces, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs. Additionally, flex ducts are highly susceptible to sagging and loose fittings, which can restrict airflow and cause uneven temperatures throughout your home.
Flex ducts are also vulnerable to external damage from rodents, pests, or improper installation. Extreme summer heat and humidity can further degrade the materials, weakening the ducts and shortening their lifespan. This can result in higher utility bills, decreased indoor comfort, and unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
What Are The Symptoms of HVAC Duct Issues?
- Hot or Cold Spots: Uneven temperatures in different rooms of your home.
- Increased Energy Bills: Rising utility costs without a corresponding increase in usage.
- Weak Airflow: Reduced air from vents while the system is running.
- Unusual Noises: Whistling or rattling sounds from the ductwork.
Why Should I Have My Ductwork Inspected?
Having your ductwork inspected annually by a professional HVAC company is a smart investment for maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your heating and cooling system. Annual inspections allow professionals to identify and repair these issues early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your home remains comfortable year-round.
Signing up for Nick’s Smart VIP Monitoring & Maintenance Program can further protect your HVAC system and plumbing. The benefits of Nick’s Smart VIP include:
- 10% Off All Services: Save on all repairs, maintenance, and additional services.
- Special Discounts on Qualifying Equipment: Enjoy exclusive savings on upgrades and replacements.
- Breakdown and Leak Alert Notifications: Stay ahead of potential issues with real-time alerts for system problems.
- Unlimited Free Visits: No trip charges during normal business hours for peace of mind and easy scheduling.
- 1 Camera Inspection of Your Plumbing System: Get a detailed view to detect hidden plumbing issues.
- 1-Year Workmanship Warranty: Assurance that a reliable warranty backs all work.
- Comprehensive System Inspections: Includes 2 annual HVAC inspections (spring and fall) and 1 plumbing inspection.
- Priority Service: Skip the line and receive expedited service as a valued VIP member.
- Improved System Efficiency: Regular inspections and monitoring help extend the lifespan and efficiency of your HVAC and plumbing systems.
Do I Need My Ductwork Prepared for Seasonal Changes?
Preparing your ductwork for seasonal changes is vital to ensure your HVAC system performs efficiently and reliably year-round. As temperatures shift, your ductwork can expand and contract, potentially creating loose connections, leaks, or damage that impacts airflow and energy efficiency.
Seasonal maintenance, such as sealing leaks and checking for signs of wear or sagging, ensures your system is ready to handle the demands of heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.
Should I Have My HVAC Ducts Cleaned?
Unless there is visible mold, mildew, or other fungal growth, or an insect or rodent infestation in the home that needs to be addressed, there is no reason to have HVAC ducts professionally cleaned. In the only study ever conducted on the benefits of HVAC duct cleaning, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found no improvement in dust levels following duct cleaning.
Nick’s Plumbing & Air Conditioning includes a comprehensive inspection of all exposed HVAC ductwork with our regular annual HVAC maintenance service. Exposed ductwork means any that can be seen without removing drywall or opening a ceiling. We check all supply and return vents, ensure all registers are open and functional, and provide adequate airflow.
Why Choose Nick’s for My HVAC Inspection Service?
Your HVAC ductwork is the backbone of your heating and cooling system, ensuring that treated air reaches every corner of your home efficiently and effectively. Neglecting regular inspections can lead to leaks, blockages, and structural damage that compromise your system’s performance, increase energy bills, and reduce indoor comfort. Whether it’s age-related wear, damage from rodents, or improper installation, ductwork problems can snowball into bigger, costlier repairs if left unchecked.
Scheduling regular inspections with a trusted professional, like Nick’s Air Conditioning, ensures your ductwork remains in optimal condition. With our expertise, we can identify and address problems before they escalate, keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and your home comfortable year-round. Don’t wait for a minor duct issue to become a major headache—call Nick’s Air Conditioning today to schedule your inspection and learn how our services can save you money and improve your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.
Call Nick’s Today. We’re on the Way!