Homeowners who experience problems with their home heating situation typically place the blame on their furnace. While it is true that an older, mid-sized, or faulty furnace can cause many types of heating problems, homeowners should also know that duct issues can also be responsible for comfort or efficiency issues. If you are wondering whether making some changes in your home's ducts could help provide a more satisfactory home heating experience for your family, here are some important discussions to have with a reputable heating services contractor. 

Duct Insulation Issues

If the furnace is working properly, rising heat bills and a home that feels uncomfortable may be caused by a lack of adequate insulation around the exterior surfaces of the ducts. Without sufficient insulation, the heated air cools too quickly as it moves through the ducts. By the time it reaches the vents, the air has already cooled and the furnace must continue to cycle as it attempts to bring the home's interior temperature to the desired thermostat setting. Having existing ducts insulated by a heating contractor can help to ensure that the air will retain its desired degree of warmth as it makes its way to every vent in the home. 

Duct Obstructions

Homeowners can also find that obstructions within the duct system can cause their heating system to perform poorly. In older homes, a common cause of duct obstructions is due to accumulated dust, dirt, and debris that settles inside the ducts and begins to block the flow of heated air. Having the ducts professionally cleaned is often all that is needed to remove existing obstructions and improve the flow of heated air throughout the home. 

If the home has flexible ductwork, such as the small diameter ducts that are made to bend easily to accommodate corners and allow concealment within walls, crush damage to the material of the ducts can also result in obstructions that limit the efficiency and comfort of the home. Homeowners who suspect that their flexible ductwork has become damaged may need to consider having portions of it replaced in order to enjoy a better heating experience. 

Duct Insufficiencies

Another potential duct issue that homeowners may face when trying to address a home heating problem is when the ducts are insufficient in size or length. Ducts that are not sized properly may be unable to deliver heated air to the farthest corners of the home, resulting in uncomfortably cold areas, issues with condensation, or a general lack of comfort and efficiency.

Homeowners who suspect that their home's ducts are in need of attention will want to discuss their concerns with a reputable heating services contractor to see what changes might be needed. 

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