During the long, trying summer months in Texas, HVAC systems are pushed to their limits as homeowners attempt to stay cool despite temperatures well over the triple-digit mark. Unfortunately, utility bills tend to skyrocket during the summer season, and many are forced to cut back on other expenses just to keep their homes comfortable.
If your air conditioning unit is constantly in use, you’re likely interested in ways to reduce your monthly electric bill. Many are surprised to learn that improperly designed or damaged ducts can lead to significantly higher energy costs. Before you throw your hands up and accept your huge utility bill as just another part of life, learn the signs of damaged or inappropriately connected ductwork.
Symptoms of leaking or poorly installed ductwork
In homes with forced-air cooling and heating systems, ducts are utilized to spread conditioned air throughout the home. Unfortunately, in most homes, as much as 20 percent of conditioned air escapes due to holes, leaks and improperly connected ductwork. This loss results in more expensive utility bills and an inability to maintain a comfortable temperature regardless of the thermostat setting.
If you have leaky or poorly insulated ducts, you may be experiencing the following:
- Utility bills in the hot summer months and cold winter season are excessively high.
- Certain rooms are more difficult to heat or cool than others.
- Some rooms feel stuffy and less comfortable for no apparent reason.
- Your ductwork is located in a garage, crawlspace, unfinished basement or attic.
- You discover kinked or tangled flexible ducts somewhere within your system.
Solutions
Though there are steps homeowners can take to reduce the loss of conditioned air, most ultimately resort to sealing cracks with duct tape. Though this strategy may provide a temporary fix, it will eventually fail. If you must seal ducts on your own, instead opt for mastic or metal tape.
Of course, the best way to ensure that your ducts are properly installed and sealed is to contact a qualified professional who understands the commercial and residential cooling and heating needs of southern Texas. With over 20 years of experience in the greater San Antonio area, the Beyer Boysare ready to serve all of your heating and cooling needs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). .
Beyer Boys services San Antonio, TX. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!