Most homeowners don’t spend much time in the attic, which means that the ducts don’t receive HVAC Services in McDonough GA that often. Ductwork that’s allowed to deteriorate can have major effects on a family’s finances, health and the home’s air quality. In this article, readers can learn three of the biggest dangers of ductwork in disrepair.
Financial Effects
During the summer months, daily air conditioning use can make up 25% or more of the monthly power bill. Any problem in the HVAC system can substantially increase the cost of cooling the home when it’s hot outside. Leaky ductwork might not seem like a major issue at first, but its financial consequences can be long lasting and far reaching.
Once an AC unit cools air, it’s pushed through ducts to vents in every room. When there’s a leak in a duct, most of the cooled air will never make it to the inside of the home. Because the system isn’t delivering as much cold air, it is forced to work harder to push air through the ductwork–and in turn, more leakage occurs. As the system works harder, it uses more energy, and monthly bills increase.
Health Risks
As if the monetary consequences of leaky ductwork weren’t severe enough, there are also health factors to consider. When cold air in a duct gets into the attic condensation can form. Over time, the increased moisture can encourage mold growth. If a leaking duct goes unobserved and unrepaired, mold can get into the ducts and spread throughout the home. Indoor air quality can decline, and those with allergies or asthma can suffer serious effects. The average HVAC unit recirculates air throughout the house up to seven times per day, and that can allow a substantial amount of indoor air pollution.
System Failure
Financial risks associated with leaky ducts do not end with a higher monthly utility bill. Because an air conditioner must work harder to keep the temperature comfortable inside the home, system components will wear faster than in a system with good ductwork. Depending on how long a leak exists, a system may need replacement much sooner than it would last under optimal conditions. A new HVAC system can cost thousands of dollars, and it’s in the homeowner’s best interest to have HVAC Services in McDonough GA on a regular basis. Contact Logan Heating & Air for more information.
