Your air ducts are a vital part of your home’s space. They’re not just where your HVAC system sends air conditioning or heating to keep your home comfortable, but they also exist in the various crawlspaces, basements, attics, and closets of your home, out of the way but working diligently.
If your air ducts start to leak, break down, or become dirty, it can spell disaster for your HVAC system and your home comfort. It might not seem like much at the moment, but you can require duct repairs in Tampa behind the scenes.
Let’s talk about what some of the hidden costs of air duct issues can be.
The Problem With Ducts in Disrepair
Leaking air ducts in your HVAC system can introduce various contaminants into your home, compromising indoor air quality and potentially causing health and comfort issues. These leaks create pathways for unfiltered air, pollutants, and allergens to enter your living spaces. Below are some common contaminants that can infiltrate your home through leaking ducts.
Just remember–your ducts can be hard to diagnose on your own. Since they’re usually out of sight, you’re way less likely to figure out what’s wrong with them as opposed to a licensed technician who knows what to look for.
1. Dust and Dirt
Leaking ducts often draw in dust and dirt from unconditioned spaces such as attics, basements, or crawlspaces. This debris can circulate through your HVAC system and settle on furniture, floors, and surfaces, creating a perpetual cleaning challenge. Inhalation of airborne dust can also trigger allergies and respiratory issues.
2. Pollen and Allergens
Cracks or gaps in your ductwork allow pollen, pet dander, and other allergens to bypass your HVAC system’s filters and spread throughout your home. This can exacerbate symptoms for individuals with allergies or asthma, leading to discomfort and reduced quality of life.
3. Mold and Mildew Spores
Moisture entering your ducts through leaks can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These spores can then travel through your HVAC system and into your living spaces, posing significant health risks such as respiratory problems, throat irritation, and in severe cases, allergic reactions.
4. Rodent and Pest Droppings
Leaking ducts can provide entry points for pests like rodents, insects, and their droppings. These contaminants not only worsen air quality but also introduce bacteria and pathogens that can lead to illness.
5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Air leaks in ductwork near garages, storage areas, or other spaces with chemicals can allow VOCs to infiltrate your home. VOCs are harmful gases emitted by products like paint, cleaning supplies, and gasoline, which can contribute to headaches, dizziness, or long-term health problems.
6. Carbon Monoxide
Poorly sealed ducts connected to combustion appliances like furnaces can allow carbon monoxide (CO) to backflow into your home. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be life-threatening at high concentrations, making properly sealed ducts crucial for safety.
7. Outdoor Pollutants
Leaking ducts can pull in outdoor air carrying pollutants such as smog, smoke, and fine particulates, especially in urban or wildfire-prone areas.
Schedule duct repairs with our team today. When it comes to duct fixes, The A/C Guy of Tampa Bay Inc. is your guy!