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Reasons Why Your Current Air Duct May Not Be Working Right

Every time you turn on the air conditioning or heating system, the air is supposed to flow in through the supply ducts and out through return ducts. These ducts running through your home are a crucial component of your HVAC system.

But you will be surprised to find out how many ductwork and HVAC systems are incorrectly installed.

According to Energy Star data, more than 50% of new HVAC systems in the United States don’t perform up to their efficiency due to inadequate installation.

When installed improperly, HVAC and air duct installations can not only ruin indoor air quality but also cause high energy bills.

In this post, we are going to share some signs that mean your current air duct installation, is not up to the mark.

2 Signs That Your Currently Installed Air Ducts Need To Be Changed

Air Duct Leaks

Nearly 20% of the air that travels through the duct system is lost due to cracks, leaks, and improperly connected ductwork. Any leaks in the ducts can cause the HVAC system to work harder than it should.

air ducts dfwIf the ducts aren’t tight enough, they will not only lose conditioned air but the negative air pressure will also suck in dirty air. This situation can be especially problematic in attics, garages, crawlspaces, and basements.

Check for any gaps, cracks, and poor connections around the seams of all your air ducts. If you suspect any leaks, call professionals for air duct services

Also, if you or someone in your family is suffering from allergies or breathing issues associated with an increased amount of dust, it may be another sign of leaks in the ductwork. These leaks allow all sorts of debris, dust, and unfiltered air in, compromising indoor air quality.

Here are some common signs of leaky air ducts:

  •       Rooms feel stuffy and uncomfortable to breathe in
  •       Rooms are difficult to cool or heat
  •       Higher than usual energy bills

If you notice any of the above signs, schedule an air duct inspection with another competent HVAC company immediately.

Cold and Hot Spots

If you are consistently experiencing cold and hot spots around your house, it may be due to wrong size ductwork or problems with the airflow.

Undersized grilles and ducts restrict airflow and may be causing temperature issues. If you notice strange noises (like popping or whistling) and loud airflow, it is most likely due to blocked vents or improperly sized ducts.

If you spot any drooping flex ducts, contact a professional air duct repair company so they can check and repair all your ductwork that is pulled tight and well-supported.

Call the Leading Air Ducts Maintenance, Repair, and Installation Company!

If you are experiencing airflow or temperature problems, it might be because your original HVAC installer didn’t do a good job. It’s time to call in some backup! 

At United Home Services, we can help you troubleshoot and fix any ductwork problems you may have. Our expert technicians make sure that all duct fittings are pre-insulated and that only rigid metal is used for the fittings. Call us toll-free at 800-399-4248 or reach us online today!

When it comes to keeping our homes healthy and our air clean, few services are as critical as air duct cleaning. If you’re anything like me, the thought of unknown particles circulating through the air my family breathes is enough to spur me into action. But not all service providers are created equal. This is where unlocking the mystery of certifications and standards in duct cleaning becomes crucial.

Why Certifications Matter in Duct Cleaning

Think of certifications as a safety net for your home’s air quality. I learned this the hard way when a friend opted for a bargain deal on duct cleaning, only to find her home’s air quality worse after the service. It turned out, the company wasn’t certified, and they had actually loosened more debris and contaminants than they removed!

Certifications in duct cleaning mean that the technicians cleaning your air ducts have been trained to adhere to the highest standards of operation. This training ensures that they not only clean effectively but also safely, reducing the risk of damage to your ductwork and ensuring that no harmful contaminants are spread throughout your home.

Key Certifications in Duct Cleaning

NADCA Certification

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) sets the gold standard for duct cleaning professionals. NADCA-certified providers have undergone rigorous training and adhere to strict guidelines for cleaning to the highest industry standards. When a technician shows up with NADCA certification, you can feel confident they know their craft inside and out.

HVAC Certifications

While not exclusive to duct cleaning, HVAC certifications indicate a comprehensive understanding of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, which is critical because your ductwork is part of a larger system. Technicians with these certifications understand how to optimize your entire HVAC system’s performance, not just clean your ducts.

Understanding Industry Standards

Industry standards are not just bureaucratic red tape. They’re developed by experts and are designed to ensure services are delivered safely and effectively. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t necessarily certify duct cleaners, but they provide guidelines on what constitutes a proper and safe duct cleaning. Following these standards is a key part of navigating the duct cleaning world like a pro.

How to Verify Certifications and Standards

So, how do you ensure you’re hiring someone trustworthy? Start by asking potential service providers about their certifications. A reputable technician won’t hesitate to share their qualifications. You can also look up their credentials online or check with the issuing organizations.

For example, when I needed my ducts cleaned last spring, I made sure to ask for the certification numbers and looked them up on the NADCA website. It gave me peace of mind knowing that the professionals I was letting into my home met all the necessary industry standards.

The Benefits of Choosing a Certified Duct Cleaner

Choosing a certified duct cleaner comes with numerous benefits. First, there’s the assurance of quality and safety. Certified cleaners use the latest and most effective tools and techniques to remove contaminants from your ducts without risking damage to your system or dispersal of pollutants.

Moreover, regular maintenance by certified professionals can extend the life of your HVAC system and improve its efficiency, which can save you money on energy bills. I noticed a decrease in my energy bills after having my ducts properly cleaned—a win for both my wallet and the environment.

Red Flags and Common Misconceptions

It’s important to be aware of the red flags. Be wary of services that offer “too good to be true” deals or don’t provide clear information about their certifications and procedures. Also, ignore the myth that “cleaning your ducts disrupts your home.” Professional cleaners ensure that the process is as non-intrusive as possible.

Conclusion

Investing in a certified duct cleaning service is not just about maintaining your HVAC system; it’s about ensuring the health and safety of your home environment. Just like choosing a doctor or a mechanic, the qualifications and reputation of duct cleaning professionals matter.

Remember, when it comes to the air you breathe, you deserve the best. Don’t hesitate to reach out to certified professionals who can provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your ducts are not just clean, but thoroughly and safely maintained.

Feeling ready to breathe easier? Reach out to your local NADCA certified duct cleaning service today and take the first step towards cleaner, healthier air in your home!

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