When your air ducts are the wrong size, this can cause a number of issues with your HVAC system. For example, if the ductwork in your home is too small, it’s like breathing through a straw. This results in inefficiency and can prematurely wear down system components due to the added strain. Knowing the signs of air ducts being the wrong size can help you to make corrections before issues occur.
Varying Temperatures Throughout Your Home
When the ductwork is not big enough, you will often notice a different temperature in each of your rooms. There are times when the difference can be 10 degrees Fahrenheit or more, so it is a noticeable difference. This is because insufficient amounts of air are getting through to all of the vents in your home.
Different Rooms Have Different Air Pressure
When your ductwork is not big enough, you might notice a difference in air pressure from room to room. It is possible to notice the imbalance of air pressure in your ears. For example, your ears might feel stuffy or like you need to pop them. You can typically tell the difference quickly by going from one room to another.
Insufficient Return Air
To test your air velocity, you can put your finger close to a vent after licking it. There are also small tools that serve the same purpose at your local home improvement store if you prefer. If you think that the flow of air is insufficient, it is time to call a professional. They can determine if your air ducts are too small and correct the issue so that every room is getting equal return air. When return air is equal throughout your home, the temperature will be more consistent.
Higher Rate of Airflow Near the HVAC Unit
When your ducts are not big enough, the only rooms that might be the right temperature are those closest to the HVAC unit. This is because, near the unit, the air pressure is higher. Then, as you walk throughout your home away from the unit, you notice less airflow and more uncomfortable temperatures.
Excessive Repairs
It is common for your system to need more repairs when the ductwork is the wrong size because it can cause excessive strain on your system. When airflow is not adequate, your system is working harder to try to cool or heat your home.
Your Air Ducts Are Leaking
If your air ducts are too small, as much as 20 percent of the cold air can escape. This is not due to any holes in your ductwork but because of air pressure. When exhaust air stays in one of your rooms for a longer time, excess pressure results. This can result in the air duct collapsing and the room’s environment becoming stuffy and uncomfortable.
Inefficient Cooling and Heating
When ducts are too big, the air is not able to move through them efficiently. It will start to fill the ducts instead of filtering out through the vents throughout your home. This can cause your space to become too hot or cold.
Increased Noisiness
When ductwork is too small, the static pressure will start to increase. As air is moving through the ducts, it will cause noise. Heating and cooling usually do not cause any noise as air moves through the ducts. However, in this instance, it is possible for the sound to be loud enough to make it difficult to watch television or rest.
Abnormal Increase in Your Utility Bills
If you notice that your electric or gas bills are rising, the size of your ductwork might be to blame. Since your system will need to work harder to output the same amount of air, it will use more resources. If you notice a combination of uncomfortable temperatures and increased utility bills, it is time to have your ductwork inspected.
Contact Service Plus today to have your ductwork inspected. We provide an array of heating and cooling services throughout Aurora, IL. Whether you need help with your ductwork or other components of your HVAC system, we can help. We offer great pricing, exceptional customer service, and HVAC expertise for your benefit.