Ducted air conditioning units are one of the most popular types of AC systems on the market. They offer many advantages, including the ability to cool or heat a large space evenly. However, like all AC systems, they are not perfect and can experience several common problems.
This article will discuss some of the most common problems associated with ducted air conditioning units, as well as when one should replace their ducts.
Air Loss
One of the most common problems with ducted air conditioning units is air loss. This can be caused by several factors, including leaks in the ductwork, incorrect installation, and poor maintenance.
Improperly aligned ducts not only allow cool or warm air to escape quickly, they can also bring in harmful gases from the outdoors.
Poor airflow can aggravate air loss and make your unit less effective at cooling or heating your home. Factors such as a dirty air filter, blockages in the ductwork, or a problem with the fan cause poor airflow.
Jammed or Stuck Zoning Gates
Another common problem with ducted air conditioning units is that the zoning gates can become jammed or stuck. This can be caused by factors such as the build-up of dirt and dust, incorrect installation, and damage to the gate.
Zoning gates are important because they allow you to control the airflow in your ducted air conditioning system. They make zoning possible, so you can control the areas of your home you want heated or cooled.
When the zoning gates are stuck, it can cause the unit to malfunction and decrease its efficiency. It can also lead to an increase in your energy bills.
Dirty Ducts
Ducts collect dust, dirt, and debris over time. If not cleaned regularly, there can be a decrease in the efficiency of the unit and an increase in your energy bills. Ducted air conditioning filter cleaning is also a crucial aspect of maintenance.
Clean your ducts by vacuuming them or having a professional do it for you. Attach the hose of your vacuum cleaner to the exhaust port of the duct. Then, turn on the vacuum and let it run for a few minutes.
This improves the airflow in your system and make your unit more efficient.
Poor Insulation
Poor insulation is another common problem in ducted air conditioning units. This can be caused by several factors, including:
- Leaks in the ductwork
- Incorrect installation
- Damaged insulation
Poor insulation causes significant amounts of hot or cool air to leak before it reaches the vents. The result is a decrease in the efficiency of the AC unit and an increase in your energy bills.
Poor insulation can also cause the unit to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. The solution is to seal the ducts before insulating them using duct wrap or fiberglass. While duct wrap is usually more efficient, fiberglass is easier to install and it comes with an added bonus: the ability to absorb noise.
Gas Leaks & Refrigerant Leaks
Gas and refrigerant leaks are also common problems in ducted air conditioning units. One way to tell if there’s a gas leak is if you smell something like propane or gasoline. If you think there may be a refrigerant leak, look for an oily residue on the copper tubing.
Gas or refrigerant leaks can be caused by factors such as:
- Poor installation
- Damage to the unit
- Loose connections
Gas and refrigerant leaks can cause the unit to malfunction and decrease its efficiency. In addition, they can be dangerous and should be fixed immediately by a professional. Ducted air conditioning repair for leaks should never be a DIY job.
When Should You ReplaceYour Ducts?
Ducts should be replaced every 10-15 years. However, if you encounter any of the problems discussed above, it’s a good idea to replace them sooner. This will help improve the efficiency of your unit and prevent further damage.
If you’re not sure whether your ducts need to be replaced, it’s a good idea to have a professional look at them. They can inspect the ductwork and let you know if they need to be replaced. Remember, AC units need to conform to specific energy efficiency and safety standards in Australia, so always seek professional advice if unsure or if you need to service ducted air conditioning units.
Get in touch with Glenco for professional air conditioning services that include quality installations, servicing, and maintenance. Glenco has you covered whether your AC is split, ducted, or HVAC, or whether you’d like controls and automation for commercial or residential AC systems.
Take care of your ducted air conditioning unit and it will take care of you. Regular maintenance and repairs will keep it running efficiently for years to come. And if you do have any problems, be sure to get them fixed immediately.
