Does your Savannah, Georgia, home need new ducts? If you’re worried that a new duct installation —whether it’s a retrofit to free you from window AC units and space heaters or a replacement for your existing duct system —will disrupt your entire life, we have the information you need. A new duct installation will help fix IAQ problems, temperature issues, and your overall indoor comfort. It’s not as intense as, say, a kitchen remodel either.
New Ducts Are for When Patches and Repairs Aren’t Enough
When we work on ducts, we often repair or replace sections that have become damaged for various reasons. But if your home is old or your duct system hasn’t been maintained, sometimes your entire network of ducts is full of issues. In this case, the best thing to do is to replace all your ducts instead of trying to repair them.
It Might Be Time to Add New Vents
Many old homes had ducts retrofitted when central air became a standard way to heat and cool homes. At the time, contractors used different techniques when deciding how many vents a home needed. Some of your rooms might be missing vents, which affects how well they stay within your preferred temperature parameters.
Similarly, if your home has an addition that isn’t connected to the duct work, adding a vent or two and connecting the ducts to that part of the house is a good idea when you’re replacing your ducts.
Ask About R-Value
The R-value of your duct insulation determines how resistant it is to temperature changes (i.e., how much heat or cold it will let escape as the air travels through the system). A higher R-value means a better insulated system. Most climates, including Georgia, need R-4 to R-8, though if you’re very concerned about it, we can discuss ductwork with a higher R-value.
We can add R-value to your ducts one of two ways: either by wrapping them with insulation or by constructing them out of duct board, which is already insulated. Your home’s idiosyncrasies will help us figure out how to best insulate your ducts.
The Mess Is Minimal
Unless your home has a flat roof (which means the ducts are very difficult to access), we can usually install new ducts without ripping out walls or ceilings. When you have ducts in place, we’ll run your new ones where the old ones were, using the existing infrastructure.
If you don’t have ducts, the spots that will see the most change are the closets and the attic, where we’ll be running the ductwork. We’ll have to cut a few holes in your ceiling to install vents and returns, but that’s a very minor thing to do to drywall.
It’s a Good Time to Upgrade Your Whole System
When upgrading to central air, you’ve already decided to buy an air handler and an outdoor condenser. But what about if you’re replacing old ductwork and already have an air handler and condenser? Well, if those units are old, it’s a good time to get everything done at once. Replacing your ducts alone will improve your heating, cooling, and energy efficiency, but those improvements will be small if your other HVAC components are old and worn out.
Chat with us about your energy goals and your indoor air quality. We’ve got many types of products we can install along with the new ducts. UV lights, for example, are a great way to neutralize tiny particulates that can cause allergies and asthma issues. Plus, products with variable speed motors give you energy-saving options.
Your first step is to give us a call at 877-692-9402 so we can come examine your current situation, regardless of whether you currently have ducts. Then we’ll develop an approach and help you pick out the HVAC system of your dreams that fits within your budget. Don’t forget to let us know about any air quality concerns you may have; our pros at McDevitt Air can recommend specific products to address those concerns. Contact us today so we can get this project started.
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FAQs
Undersizing Your Ductwork. Not Properly Sealing Ducts. Leaving Ductwork Improperly Insulated. Creating Sharp Bends In Air Ducts. Installing Duct Runs That Are Too Long.
What is a common mistake in ductwork installation? ›
Undersizing Your Ductwork. Not Properly Sealing Ducts. Leaving Ductwork Improperly Insulated. Creating Sharp Bends In Air Ducts. Installing Duct Runs That Are Too Long.
Is replacing ductwork worth it? ›
Replacing air ducts provides many benefits. First, you reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills. Second, you improve your home's air quality.
How do I prepare for a duct replacement? ›
Before the technicians arrive at your home, ask them how much space they need around each vent and register. Then, remove any furnishings or objects from those areas. This will enable them to devote more time to cleaning the ducts instead of having to clear the work areas.
Does replacing ductwork increase home value? ›
Yes, installing a new HVAC system can increase your home value by 5% to 7% with a return on investment (ROI) of about 30%. This projected increase is especially true if you replace your current setup with an energy-efficient system, providing additional benefits to future buyers in the long run.
Should ductwork be replaced with new AC? ›
In most cases, when replacing an air conditioner, it is necessary to replace the ductwork. While not always required, many contractors will recommend replacing the ductwork with the AC to ensure maximum efficiency and air quality.
What is the best ductwork for a house? ›
Galvanized steel ductwork is a durable, long-lasting option for homeowners. This type of ductwork is easily customized for your property, requires less maintenance than other ductwork options, and is energy-efficient.
What is the life expectancy of ductwork? ›
How Long Does Ductwork Typically Last? Most ductwork will last for 10-15 years before you need to consider repairing or replacing it, even though it usually has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. It often begins to deteriorate much sooner than that. Deterioration happens over time because ductwork moves.
Do you have to open walls to replace ductwork? ›
The Mess Is Minimal
Unless your home has a flat roof (which means the ducts are very difficult to access), we can usually install new ducts without ripping out walls or ceilings. When you have ducts in place, we'll run your new ones where the old ones were, using the existing infrastructure.
Is replacing ductwork easy? ›
To answer the question of whether or not you can replace or install your own ductwork, I'd say it is possible but that I highly recommend enlisting the help of a heating, cooling, and ductwork expert. Ductwork runs all throughout your house, which makes doing DIY repairs yourself a heavy contracting lift.
“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
Is it hard to replace ducts? ›
Ductwork is one of the essential parts of your HVAC system. It's also one of the most difficult to replace ductwork correctly. If you are considering replacing ductwork, you must be prepared for a challenging project. If you're like most people, the thought to replace ductwork probably seems like a daunting task.
How do I know if I have bad ductwork? ›
Hot and Cold Spots, Inconsistent Room Temperatures
Undersized ducts and grilles restrict airflow and may be the cause of your comfort and temperature problems. If you notice loud airflow and strange noises such as whistling and popping, you may have improperly sized ducts or blocked vents and registers.
How do I know if I need new ductwork? ›
Inconsistent Temperatures & Cooling Performance
Uneven temperature distribution can be a sign of duct problems. Over time, ducts can develop leaks, gaps, or even become disconnected, leading to inconsistent airflow and temperature imbalances.
Does every room need a return duct? ›
While having a return vent in every room is unnecessary, it's becoming more common in modern homes. You should ensure a balanced distribution of these vents throughout your home.
What is the most common cause of poor air flow in a duct system? ›
Obstructed Vent
One of the most common causes for poor airflow is a blocked vent. To properly heat or cool your home, the air needs to be unobstructed. To see if there are any blocked vents, look by the baseboards or on the ceiling. Furniture, bedding, and the vent damper could all be possible obstacles to the vent.
How many HVAC systems are installed incorrectly? ›
How Many HVAC Systems Are Installed Incorrectly? Unfortunately, about 90% of HVAC systems are installed incorrectly, according to the North Carolina Alternative Energy Corporation.
What is the common fault in HVAC system? ›
Perhaps the most common of all HVAC problems, and one that is easily fixed, is a dirty filter. Dirty filters will block airflow and cause your furnace to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature. This overburdens the unit, which could cause overheating, premature wear, and HVAC airflow problems.
