HVAC Repairs

Sealing Leaky Ducts

A home's ductwork acts as its respiratory system, distributing conditioned air throughout the house. When ducts are leaky, they not only waste energy but also compromise indoor air quality in several ways:

• Sucking in Pollutants: Leaks in ducts, especially those running through unconditioned spaces like attics, basements, and crawl spaces, can create a negative pressure that sucks in unfiltered air. This air can contain a mix of allergens and contaminants, including dust, mold spores, pollen, insulation fibers, and even droppings from pests that may have taken up residence in those spaces.

• Preventing Proper Airflow: When air leaks out of the supply ducts, the system can't properly deliver conditioned air, which leads to imbalanced air pressure and stagnant pockets of air. This lack of circulation can allow pollutants to settle and build up in rooms, particularly in corners or less-trafficked areas.

• Risk of Backdrafting: Leaky return ducts can lead to a condition called backdrafting, where combustion gases from appliances like furnaces or water heaters are pulled into the home instead of being safely vented outdoors. These gases, including carbon monoxide, are extremely dangerous.

Sealing ducts with mastic or special metal-backed tape stops this infiltration, ensuring that only the air you intend to condition and filter circulates throughout your home.

Repairing or Replacing Filter Assemblies

The air filter is the first line of defense against airborne pollutants. However, if the filter assembly is poorly designed or damaged, its effectiveness is compromised.

• Bypassing the Filter: A common problem is a poorly fitting filter or a damaged filter assembly. Gaps around the filter allow unfiltered air to bypass it and be circulated throughout the home. This means that a large portion of the air isn't being cleaned at all, defeating the purpose of the filter. 

• Incorrect Filter Size: Using an undersized filter is a frequent mistake. If the filter is too small for the return grille, air will find the path of least resistance and simply flow around the filter.

• The Right Fit: A properly sealed and correctly sized filter assembly ensures that every cubic foot of air entering the HVAC system is forced to pass through the filter media. This guarantees that airborne particles like dust, pet dander, mold spores, and pollen are captured, leading to cleaner, healthier air inside the home.