3 Signs of Clogged Ducts in Your Murrels Inlet, SC Home

A properly functioning HVAC system is vital to the comfort of your Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, home. When one of the components of your system isn’t functioning, that can negatively impact your comfort. Clogged ducts can lead to poor HVAC functionality and low indoor air quality, so knowing the signs of clogged ducts are important for homeowners. Here are three signs that show your ducts may be clogged.

Varying Temperatures

The temperature throughout your house should be more or less constant with minimal variation. Your ductwork is responsible for distributing temperature-controlled air evenly around your home. If there’s a clog in your ductwork, the areas connected to it may have noticeably warmer or cooler air than the rest of your home.

Small duct clogs are easy to deal with on a day-to-day basis, but large ones can create an uneven, uncomfortable home. This is not only an issue for people in the affected rooms, but it also means that the air in those areas may be stagnant and more prone to low air quality issues. Plus, since air isn’t getting everywhere evenly, your thermostat may kick on more frequently to deal with the uneven temperatures, decreasing your overall energy efficiency.

High Energy Bills

If your utility bills are higher than usual, that might signify your air ducts are clogged. When your ducts are clogged, air can’t flow freely throughout your home. As a result, your HVAC system has to work harder to deliver air throughout your home to keep up with the temperature set on your thermostat. Your HVAC system wastes energy, which will result in higher energy bills. To prevent energy waste, make sure you change your air filter at least every month. Dirty filters can result in clogged ducts and high energy bills.

Excess Dust

Dust is bad news for family members with sensitive lungs, and clogged ductwork can lead to an increased amount of airborne dust particles. If the cause of the clog is a buildup of dust, you may end up with more of those particles making their way into your home, especially if that clog hasn’t entirely sealed off the duct yet and is allowing some air through.

Buildup typically appears on the duct vent, as well as on items on the same level as the vent, like fans, high shelving, or any furniture that’s near the opening. If you notice higher than normal buildup, it may be time to get your ducts checked out.

If you think your home has clogged ducts, the experts at Air Doctor Services, Inc. can address the issue. Give us a call to set up a consultation today.

Originally published in September 2018, updated in May 2020

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