It’s a hot Southern California day, and your air conditioner just doesn’t seem to be giving you the output you want. Your first thought is that there is something wrong with a portion of your air conditioning system, or even that your older air conditioner needs replacement. But it’s quite possible that the problem has nothing to do with the mechanical and electrical components of the air conditioner. And you’ll need duct testing to find out.
What Is Duct Testing?
While some companies use alternative methods for testing the ducts, one of the most effective devices is known as a Duct Blaster. A qualified air conditioning and heating technician has the skills and know-how to handle this device, but the average homeowner will encounter more difficulty using it (and could risk blowing dust throughout the house).
All of the vents are sealed, and the duct blaster is attached to the base of your ductwork. The machine runs and adds pressure into the ducts. Any air leaks are registered by the extra effort the duct blaster must put in to pressurize a certain area of the ductwork. A technician decides whether the amount of leakage is allowable, and then determines what should be done to seal the ductwork.
Why Should You Schedule Duct Testing Today?
Leaky ductwork is more common than you may think. The EPA estimates that the typical home HVAC system loses about 30% of the air it creates to holes and cracks in the ducts. Additionally, leaks cause more problems than you may have guessed. Take a look at some of the problems that result from air leakage in the ducts.
- Poor cooling and heating power: One or more rooms may be affected by the air and heat loss.
- High energy bills: Your bills can skyrocket as your air conditioner becomes overworked attempting to compensate for the leaks.
- Problems with the heating and cooling systems: Additionally, all this extra work can cause parts of the system to become overworked, which results in more frequent repairs, and potentially, a premature replacement.
- Poor indoor air quality: Duct leaks may allow contaminants to enter the home from unoccupied spaces, like the crawlspace or attic.
Scheduling duct testing and following it up with the proper service can save you money, keep your family members more comfortable, and even extend the lifespan of your heating and air conditioning equipment.
Are you looking for quality duct testing services in the Los Angeles area? Contact Air Classic today for all your air conditioning and heating needs!
