Your home’s air ducts work year-round, delivering heated or cooled air from your HVAC unit to every room. Proper air duct maintenance can improve air quality, reduce energy bills, and help identify any leaks that could be wasting energy. Here are five essential tips for keeping your duct system in top shape.
1. Seal Duct Leaks
Air leaks in ducts are one of the leading causes of wasted energy in homes. Over time, joints in your ducts can loosen or get damaged, allowing air to leak out. Every leak means your HVAC unit must work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which can increase energy costs, create temperature inconsistencies, and reduce air quality.
To ensure your ducts are properly sealed, schedule an inspection with an HVAC technician at least once a year. A professional can test for leaks, assess duct integrity, and even use a camera to check for hidden damage.
2. Keep Vents and Ducts Unobstructed
Blocked vents can create uneven temperatures in your home. Obstructions like furniture, rugs, or décor can restrict airflow, putting strain on your HVAC system’s blower fan. This makes the system less efficient and may shorten the blower’s lifespan.
To optimize airflow, clear any obstructions from around your vents. You may need to rearrange some furniture or décor, but doing so will allow your system to work more efficiently and extend its lifespan.
3. Clean Your Ducts Regularly
The cleanliness of your air ducts directly affects indoor air quality. The EPA reports that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, often due to dust, debris, and mold buildup in ducts. High dust levels can damage ducts over time and reduce air quality.
To keep your ducts clean, schedule a professional air duct cleaning at least once a year. HVAC technicians use specialized tools with negative pressure to dislodge and remove debris effectively, ensuring your ducts stay clean and your air stays fresh.
4. Clean or Replace Vent Covers
Dirty vent covers can hinder airflow and reduce indoor air quality. Whether you clean the ducts yourself or hire a professional, it’s a good idea to check and clean vent covers regularly. Remove the covers, soak them in soapy water, and use a microfiber cloth to scrub away dust and debris. Keeping these covers clean improves airflow and helps keep indoor air clean.
5. Replace Your Air Filter
Regularly changing your air filter is key to maintaining good air quality and ensuring your HVAC system runs efficiently. Check your system’s model number for the manufacturer’s recommended filter type. For optimal performance, replace your air filter monthly, especially during peak heating or cooling seasons.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality with The Unico System
The Unico System provides whisper-quiet, high-efficiency heating and cooling through small, insulated ducts that keep your home comfortable while improving indoor air quality. The system can even be upgraded with UV light for additional air disinfection.
To learn how The Unico System can enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency, reach out to our Design Services team for a free system design layout today.
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