It’s late at night while you put together the finishing touches on your Halloween costume. The whole family is excited to do some trick-or-treating and they’ve all got costumes and props ready to go. But before you head to bed, there’s a creaking noise that just won’t leave you alone. What’s causing this bump in the night, and should you be nervous about it?
Well, we’d like to preface this blog post by simply stating that your house is not haunted and you’re not being chased by a ghost. No matter how scary the seasonal movies are that you’ve been watching, we promise that there are no goblins causing mayhem in the middle of the night. What might be happening is your air ducts are in disrepair and need to be fixed by a licensed contractor.
For spooky season, we’d recommend our customers call our team to inspect them and detect any hidden duct problems. We’re offering this service for 20% off right now!
For everyone else, keep reading to learn about some common duct problems in Tampa you might encounter.
What Can Go Wrong With Your Ducts
Here are a few examples of what can go wrong with your ductwork–to the point that it might go bump in the night.
1. Uneven Airflow
If you notice that some rooms in your home are significantly warmer or cooler than others, this could indicate an issue with your ductwork. Leaks, blockages, or damaged ducts can reduce the amount of conditioned air reaching certain areas, causing uneven airflow. A professional HVAC contractor can inspect your ducts for leaks or obstructions and make the necessary repairs to restore balanced airflow.
2. Increased Energy Bills
A sudden or gradual rise in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in HVAC usage could suggest that your ductwork is leaking air. When ducts are damaged, the system has to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature, leading to higher energy consumption. If you’re experiencing higher utility bills, it may be time to have your ducts checked by a professional.
3. Unusual Noises
Rattling, whistling, or other unusual noises coming from your air vents could be a sign of loose, disconnected, or damaged ductwork. No, it’s not a ghost!
While HVAC systems make some noise during operation, persistent or loud sounds are a red flag that there may be issues with your ducts. A professional HVAC contractor can inspect your ducts to determine if repairs are needed.
4. Excessive Dust and Debris
If your home seems dustier than usual or you find debris around your air vents, your ducts could be damaged. Cracks or holes in the ductwork allow dust and debris to enter and circulate through your home, diminishing indoor air quality. An HVAC contractor can assess the ducts for damage and seal any leaks to prevent further contamination.
5. Weak Airflow
If the air coming from your vents feels weak or insufficient, even when the HVAC system is running at full capacity, it may indicate duct problems. Leaks, kinks, or disconnected sections of ductwork can restrict airflow, reducing your system’s efficiency. A professional contractor can diagnose the issue and repair any damaged sections to restore proper airflow.
When it’s time for comprehensive duct repairs, contact The A/C Guy of Tampa Bay Inc.