Ductwork FAQ

Old and poorly installed HVAC ducts cost money and reduce comfort every minute the HVAC system runs. Installation errors can also contribute to moisture problems and related microbial growth. Today, new technologies are used to build ductwork designs for added comfort.

Costs of poorly installed ducts

In a low-pressure, forced-air HVAC system, the goal is to move the air effectively and efficiently.

• Effectiveness is measured by occupant comfort and by maintaining reasonably consistent temperature, humidity and pressure throughout the house.
• Efficiency is measured by total operating cost, which includes costs for utilities, maintenance and replacement at the end of the equipment’s design life.

Estimates of efficiency reductions caused by poorly installed ductwork range from 10 percent for good systems up to 40 percent in poor systems. Assuming a modest annual household heating and cooling bill of $1,200 ($100/month), between $100 and $480 in utility costs alone could be wasted each year. This excludes costs for increased system maintenance and reduced system useful life, and excludes the environmental costs of pollution caused by generating the power to run inefficient systems. Adding these costs together defines a problem that deserves attention.