While we are big proponents of using boilers to heat homes, there are still a lot of homeowners that prefer the prompt heating made possible by forced-air systems like furnaces. There is nothing wrong with using a forced-air heating system, obviously. Just keep in mind the fact that there are a few potential problems that you may encounter with such systems that you would not with a boiler.
Leaky ductwork is a leading cause of energy inefficiency in many homes throughout the country. If your home is getting warm enough, you may not realize that your air ducts are leaking at all. You will, however, be suffering the effects nonetheless. Here are a few signs that your ductwork in Arlington, VA may be compromised.
- Cold spots. This may well be the most obvious sign that you have ductwork in need of repair or replacement. If you are not able to heat your home in an even and effective manner, then it is possible that the ductwork servicing this area of the home is leaking. It’s not going to be a total loss, so this room may not be an icebox. If you notice that any area in your home is cooler than others, though, especially if that same area is warmer than others in the summer, then leaky ductwork is a possibility.
- Poor air quality. Are your allergies or asthma symptoms acting up? Are you noticing more and more dust and other pollutants throughout your home? It is possible for damaged ductwork to pull pollutants into the system, and then to distribute those pollutants throughout the entire house. This can spell huge trouble for your indoor air quality.
- Increased heating costs. Even though the heated air leaking out of your ductwork will wind up somewhere in your home, it is likely not going to wind up where it is most needed. This will force your heating system to work overtime in order to effectively heat the entirety of your living space. That increased workload will be evident in increased heating costs.
If you need any ductwork services, count on the professionals at Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. to do the job right.