You don’t usually need a professional for air duct filter replacement. Although it may be different than replacing an air handler or window AC filter, it’s just as important. And, the process takes just a few minutes. Regular air filter replacement can reduce energy bills, improve indoor air quality, and extend the life of your HVAC system. If you’re unfamiliar with this task, we’ll explain how it works.

How to Replace a Return Air Duct Filter

A filter may be located in the return air vent or somewhere in the return duct. It ensures the air drawn from rooms is free of particulates by the time it reaches your furnace or air handler. Fortunately, replacing it isn’t complicated and does not require a professional. Follow these steps to remove the old air filter and install a new one:

1. Turn off your HVAC unit to prevent dust and dirt from contaminating the system.
2. Open the vent (to access a filter installed near the return vent).
3. Unhook the latch to release the drawer housing the filter (if the filter is inside the duct).
4. Remove the old filter from the frame and discard it.
5. Note the size of the filter on the side.
6. If the size isn’t listed, measure the filter carefully or consult your HVAC system’s owner’s manual.

Once you have the new filter, insert it into the same location as the old one. Its arrow must point in the direction of the airflow (or toward the furnace). With the filter in place, close the drawer and secure the latch.

However, before you install the filter, it’s a good idea to wipe the area with a microfiber cloth. Otherwise, dirt can blow into the system or clog up the new filter. To remove dust between the grill slats, you can wrap the cloth around the tip of a flathead screwdriver. Gently move the screwdriver along each slat to clean it. You can also use a brush attachment to vacuum the cover.

In addition to replacing the return air duct filter, filters in the air handler cabinet, furnace, and other parts of your HVAC system should be properly maintained.

When to Change Your Air Filter

Some air filters are rated for 30 days and others for 90 days. Media filters are thicker and, depending on the type, can last six to 12 months. Replace the filter as suggested by the manufacturer. You can write the date on your calendar when the filter was installed. Setting an alert on your phone can also remind you when to change it. 

However, air duct filter replacement can be performed sooner than suggested if you notice any of the following issues:

• A Lack of Air Circulation: The filter may be clogged, restricting the amount of airflow in your home. This also affects temperature control and distribution.
• Air Conditioner Leakage: The flow of warm air into the system is restricted, preventing the evaporator coil from absorbing heat. It can then freeze; as the ice thaws, water can leak from your AC system into your home.
• Rising Energy Bills: A clogged filter forces the blower fan and other components to work harder, increasing energy consumption. As a result, your electric bills go up.

A central air conditioning system is designed to work with a certain amount of air. Blocked airflow causes components to work harder to compensate. This accelerates wear and tear, so major repairs become more common and your heating and cooling system can fail sooner than expected.

Reasons to Hire a Contractor for Air Duct Filter Replacement

Most people can replace an air duct filter on their own. However, you may consider hiring a local HVAC contractor in some circumstances. These are a few reasons to call a professional and schedule service:

• Frozen Evaporator Coil: The coil can freeze for a few reasons, including low refrigerant, and ice can easily damage it. A technician can thoroughly inspect and test the system to determine why the evaporator coil keeps freezing and if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
• Utility Bills Are Still High: If your energy bill remains high or continues to increase even with regular filter replacements, call for help. Numerous HVAC issues can cause decreased energy efficiency. This is often the first sign of a developing problem.
• It’s Time for Maintenance: We recommend maintenance at least annually; however, your AC should be checked in the spring and furnace in the fall. If your system is due for maintenance and it’s time for air duct filter replacement, request an appointment so a technician can help you.
• Sizing a New Filter: While a Manual J calculation determines the right-sized AC or heater, a Manual D calculation helps size ductwork and can help in selecting a larger filter. Choosing the ideal filter can optimize airflow and system performance. However, the system may also need improvements, such as a larger plenum box.
• You Have a Commercial HVAC System: Commercial HVAC systems use different sizes and types of filters than residential units. Replacing them can be challenging. These filters are often held in place by special brackets and a gasket. Therefore, air duct filter replacement requires knowledge of these components to ensure air is filtered properly and the system works as designed.

Replacing a Duct Filter: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If your home has an air duct filter, you can most often replace it yourself. There’s no need for a professional unless it’s time for maintenance or you suspect an HVAC system issue. You can also call a pro if you’re considering a larger, more efficient filter. They can help choose the appropriate type and model, and determine if other updates are needed. A professional should always replace air duct filters in a commercial HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

An HVAC filter must be replaced regularly. Neglecting to change one (and poor maintenance in general) can reduce efficiency, performance, and indoor air quality. Our licensed contractors can help with air duct filter replacement, air duct cleaning, and other indoor air quality services. We provide a customized approach for each home and find effective, high-efficiency solutions. To request service, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

Over time, your air conditioner undergoes wear and tear that can result in issues such as clogged filters, broken components, and loose connections. These problems strain your cooling system, causing it to use more energy than before. You may notice your energy bills begin to increase, airflow reduction, and inadequate cooling throughout your home.

Addressing these problems reduces the strain and returns your system to its regular function, leading to decreased energy usage through optimized energy efficiency. Keep reading to learn more about the issues that affect your system’s efficiency and the benefits of  AC repair.

Common AC Issues That Reduce Efficiency 

While almost all damages or malfunctions can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, some issues make more of an impact than others, including: 

• Dirty filters: A clogged filter reduces your unit's airflow, making it work harder to produce the same results.
• A damaged fan motor: The blower fan moves air over the evaporator coil. When it breaks or malfunctions, it uses excessive energy to circulate air through the system.
• Frozen coils: A frozen evaporator coil cannot effectively remove heat. To compensate, the system goes into overdrive, using excess energy.
• Leaking ducts: Your duct system distributes cool air throughout your home. If it has a hole, crack, tear, or other damage, it won’t be able to do its job efficiently.
• Broken thermostat: A faulty thermostat may cause your system to short cycle, resulting in increased energy usage and improper cooling. 

Signs Your AC Requires Repair

It’s essential to catch AC repairs quickly to prevent the problems from progressing and reduce energy waste. The top signs of a damaged AC include the following:

• Warm air blowing from the unit
• Insufficient airflow
• The system produces foul odors
• Strange noises, such as buzzing, humming, or banging
• Water leaks or moisture near the AC
• Rising energy bills

If you notice any of the above issues, contact a reputable professional as soon as possible. They’ll diagnose the problem and outline the recommended steps to repair it. If your system is over ten years old or constantly in need of repair, it can be more cost-effective to replace it. Installing a new high-efficiency system will reduce your repair bills, cut down your energy usage, and improve the comfort of your home.

The Benefits of AC Repairs for Energy Efficiency

When you address AC repairs, you’ll significantly enhance the efficiency of your system. By reducing the strain and allowing it to operate efficiently, you’ll see various benefits, including:

• Reduced energy consumption: A broken system has to work harder to achieve the same results, resulting in increased energy usage. By repairing these issues, your unit will use less power, operate smoothly, and keep your home cool.
• Extended lifespan: Keeping up with regular repairs and maintenance prevents minor problems from progressing and causing significant damage, increasing the lifespan of your AC unit.
• Improved home comfort: When your system works properly, you won’t have to worry about uneven temperatures or inadequate airflow. Your home will feel comfortable on even the hottest days, and your air conditioner will use less power to cool it 

AC Maintenance and Energy Savings

Scheduling professional AC maintenance at least once yearly is one of the best ways to improve HVAC efficiency. During the appointment, a technician will complete a full inspection, cleaning, and tune-up of your system to ensure it’s in top condition. They’ll complete tasks such as:

• Replacing the filter
• Cleaning the coils
• Inspecting and sealing ducts
• Calibrating the thermostat
• Checking refrigerant levels

By taking these steps, you’ll be able to identify issues before they progress and ensure all components work correctly. This will reduce the risk of breakdowns and improve operating efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills, a lower environmental impact, and an extended lifespan for your system. 

Call Trio for Expert AC Services in Northern California!

If you want to improve your air conditioner’s energy efficiency, contact our team at Trio Heating & Air. We proudly offer comprehensive air conditioning services in San Francisco and surrounding areas. Whether your air conditioner shows signs of malfunction, is due for maintenance, or is ready for an upgrade, we can help. 

Call us or book online to schedule your service today. With years of experience and extensive training, our technicians will help improve your unit's efficiency and give you expert energy-saving AC tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I schedule AC repairs or maintenance for optimal efficiency?

You should schedule AC maintenance at least once per year to ensure proper system function. If you notice a problem with your unit between maintenance visits, contact us as soon as possible for emergency repair in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. The faster you fix the issue, the less likely it is to progress and cause further damage to your unit. 

Do AC units lose efficiency over time?

Your air conditioner will slowly lose efficiency over time as it undergoes wear and tear. If it is over ten years old, consider replacing it with a new, high-efficiency model. Contact our team to discuss your replacement options, and we’ll help you find the best unit that fits your needs and budget.

Is it more energy-efficient to leave my air conditioner on all day?

Leaving your air conditioner on all day will use more energy than cycling it on and off. It’s best to set the thermostat to your desired temperature and allow it to shut off automatically. You can also save energy by turning the unit off when you’re not home or during cool periods like nighttime.

Imagine you’re in the middle of a summer heat wave in the San Francisco Bay Area. Temperatures have hit over 100 degrees, and your air conditioner has stopped working. When you open it up, you’re surprised to find ice inside. 

If your AC unit is freezing up, don’t panic! This is a common problem many households deal with at some point. There are a few reasons ice forms inside an air conditioner. Some are quick fixes, while others require a more in-depth AC repair call.

Trio Heating and Air offers emergency AC repair and other HVAC repair services. We’ll be there as soon as possible to assess the situation and fix the cause of your frozen AC. Read on to learn more about freezing AC units and when to call a professional for help.

Why Is My AC Unit Freezing Up?

To understand why an air conditioner freezes, you first need to know how an AC works. Air conditioners collect heat and humidity from your house and transfer it outside. It’s a process based on the principle that certain gasses change temperature when compressed and expanded.

Your AC has several components, including a fan, compressor, refrigerant liquid, evaporator coil, and condenser coil. These work together to blow indoor air across a cold evaporator coil, which cools the air. Hot evaporated air is sent outside to the condenser, while colder air is sent back into the house. 

The process requires good airflow and the right amount of refrigerant. If either of these is compromised, the temperatures near the condenser coil or evaporator drop drastically, causing water vapor inside the air conditioner to freeze. Without appropriate airflow and refrigerant levels, your AC freezes up.

Some of the most common air conditioner freezing causes include: 

• Mechanical failures: A failing fan motor, broken valves, or bad wiring may cause ice to form inside the AC, leading to further damage.
• Dirty evaporator coil: Evaporator coils become covered in dirt, hair, and other household debris. This eventually blocks airflow inside the AC, causing the coil to freeze. 
• Clogged condenser coil: Your AC's outdoor portion should be kept free of leaves, grass, and dirt. A dirty condenser coil reduces the ability for warm air to blow through the evaporator coil, which stops the refrigerant from becoming warm gas. Instead, it freezes inside the AC.
• Low refrigerant: Pinhole leaks or improper refrigerant charging usually result in low pressure in the coils, which lowers the refrigerant temperature. The temperature gets cold enough to freeze any moisture in the air and causes ice buildup.

Can a Dirty Air Filter Cause My AC to Freeze?

Yes. A dirty air filter restricts the airflow in your air conditioner. It’s one of the most common reasons for ice buildup. 

The evaporator coil needs a healthy air flow to absorb heat from the air blowing through your AC. When this warm air becomes restricted, the coil freezes. The good news is you don’t necessarily need an AC repair person to check your filters. If you like DIY projects, changing your AC filter is a job you can handle yourself.

What Should I Do if My Air Conditioner Freezes Up? 

If you see ice in your air conditioner or it isn’t working as well as it used to, contact Trio. We’re your local experts in all AC services, with experienced technicians who can quickly locate and fix the problem. 

It’s best to call a pro as soon as you notice an issue rather than wait for the ice to build up. Your AC will continue to freeze until the unit is completely encased, stopping the coil from absorbing any heat. This prevents your AC from working properly and may cause it to overwork until it burns out completely.

Trust your local AC repair specialists at Trio to get your AC back in good working order and prevent further damage. 

How Can I Prevent My AC From Freezing Up? 

Here are some simple tasks you can do to prevent a residential AC repair call for a frozen AC.

Change your filters regularly 

The frequency of your AC filter changes will depend on how often you use the AC and the amount of dust and particulates in the air. We recommend changing the filter at least once every three to six months. 

Schedule regular professional maintenance

Have an expert give your air conditioner a full once-over to make sure it’s in good working order. Schedule an annual AC maintenance call with Trio, and we’ll give your AC a full inspection, test all the components, clean and lubricate moving parts, and take care of small repairs.

Know the signs of refrigerant issues and take action quickly

Some signs you have a refrigerant problem include:

• Longer cooling cycles
• High electric bills
• Hissing sounds 
• AC isn’t cooling the room 
• An exhaust smell

If you notice any of these signs, call Trio today. We’ll schedule a service call to charge your refrigerant. 

Contact Trio Heating and Air Today

Trio Heating and Air Conditioning is your local California AC service center. We offer air conditioning and central air repair, AC maintenance, and AC installations to Greater San Francisco Bay Area residents. 

If you’re curious about our energy-efficient ACs or want to schedule routine maintenance for your older HVAC system, we’re here to deliver top-tier solutions for all your needs. 

We respond quickly to service requests, use only the best products, and guarantee the highest quality work. Trust us to treat you with respect and take care of your home. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or book a service appointment. 

Mistakes in AC repair and maintenance can damage the system in addition to normal wear and tear. One error or misjudgment can lead to costly problems or an early system replacement. Therefore, a qualified professional must handle any air conditioning repair (aside from changing the air filter or simple cleaning). Not calling for help when necessary, mishandling the system, or improperly maintaining it can lead to substantial damage. 

• Forgetting to Change the Filter
• Installing the Wrong Filter
• Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly
• Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making
• Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly
• Cutting an Electrical Wire
• Installing the Wrong Parts
• Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered
• Waiting Too Long to Call for Help
• Not Following Safety Precautions
• Attempting a DIY AC Repair
• Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Avoiding these common mistakes can protect your AC system and household budget:

1. Forgetting to Change the Filter

Changing the filter regularly is the golden rule of air conditioner maintenance. Replacing it every three months or more frequently can prevent costly AC repairs. Set reminders to check the filter. If it becomes clogged with dirt, your entire HVAC system works harder to achieve the desired air temperature, increasing utility costs and straining already hard-working components.

2. Installing the Wrong Filter

As every AC professional agrees, replacing the air filter is the easiest and most important way to care for your air conditioner. However, the filter must be the right type and size for your system. Its length and width must fit the space exactly; for some units, the thickness of the filter must meet exact specifications. Otherwise, it may decrease performance or cause permanent damage.

3. Diagnosing a Problem Incorrectly

No matter who services your air conditioner, the underlying problem must be properly identified before it’s repaired. Experienced professionals have the tools to diagnose a wide range of issues. For example, leak detectors can identify damage to a coil, while voltage testers can help find a faulty electrical component. Attempting repairs without a proper diagnosis can result in overlooking the root cause of the problem. Or, the repair may ultimately be ineffective. In either case, there’s a high risk of additional damage.

4. Ignoring Noises Your AC Shouldn’t Be Making

Loud noises don’t just happen normally as your AC is running. You or anyone servicing the unit must take these seriously. Unusual noises are a telltale sign of a problem. Ignoring them can allow an issue to escalate until there’s major damage, such as a failed blower or a burnt-out compressor. Safety hazards such as a refrigerant leak or a short circuit are also possible. 

Therefore, call a local HVAC contractor if you hear the following from your AC:

• Rattling
• Squealing
• Shrieking
• Banging
• Hissing
• Whistling
• Bubbling
• Grinding
• Humming

5. Handling Electrical Parts Incorrectly

Working with an AC’s electrical components requires extensive knowledge and training. Not every AC repair technician is equipped to handle electrical issues. Attempting an electrical repair without expertise is highly dangerous. Aside from the potential for a shock, burn, or electrocution, it also risks causing extensive damage to your air conditioning system. For example, a mistake fixing faulty wiring or a capacitor can trigger a surge that shorts out major components. It can also lead to an electrical fire.

6. Cutting an Electrical Wire

Touching a live electrical part without protection, not turning off the system, or installing an electrical component incorrectly is bad enough. However, a far too common issue is cutting an electrical wire. This may seem appropriate if something isn’t working; just cut a wire, splice it back together, or replace it. 

But it’s not this simple. Your AC system has many wires and connections. Whether you cut one during repairs or by accident while trimming hedges or mowing your lawn, the results can be bad. The effects can range from reduced cooling capacity to your AC being unable to turn on. Hiring a professional is the best way to avoid wiring mistakes. They can also install and wrap wires to ensure they’re stable, protected, and unlikely to be accidentally cut.

7. Installing the Wrong Parts

Every part installed or replaced in your AC is specific to the make and model. If the wrong part is installed, it may be incompatible with the system. Your AC may not work at all, be damaged in the process, or wear out at an increased rate. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for selecting parts and hire a professional familiar with your type of system. Some ACs may also require specific tools to complete certain repair tasks.

8. Keeping the Outdoor Unit Covered

Some people cover their outdoor condenser unit to protect it and avoid repairs. However, this can have the opposite effect. Outdoor units are typically built to withstand extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Don’t cover the entire unit while it’s running. The covering can disrupt airflow, overworking the unit. Or, its materials may be sucked into the machine, so you may need a major AC repair before you know it.

9. Waiting Too Long to Call for Help

Call a professional as soon as your AC:

• Doesn’t provide as much cooling
• Fails to provide consistent temperatures
• Makes strange noises it never did before
• Emits unusual odors
• Blows less air from the vents
• Has increased condensation or a small leak

Homeowners often wait too long once they notice these symptoms. But the longer you wait, the more damage can occur. Your safety may also be at risk. Therefore, call an HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue before it gets worse.

10. Not Following Safety Precautions

An AC repair comes with many hazards. One reason to call a professional is that they know the risks and how to mitigate them. They wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and insulated shoes to protect themselves from harm. Other safety precautions include turning off the power while working on a system and following industry guidelines for handling, charging, and disposing of refrigerant.

11. Attempting a DIY AC Repair

Never attempt to fix your air conditioning system yourself. Other than changing filters and cleaning the outside of units, DIY repairs are far too risky. Aside from the safety hazards, there’s the chance of causing damage that requires expensive repairs. You’ll pay out-of-pocket for these if a DIY repair voids the warranty. Therefore, always call a licensed professional to diagnose and repair your AC System.

12. Not Scheduling Annual Maintenance

Another big AC repair mistake is neglecting to schedule regular maintenance. It can lead to reduced cooling performance, higher energy bills, and safety hazards. Basic professional maintenance tasks like cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and measuring refrigerant levels can make a big difference. During annual maintenance, a technician can also make minor repairs to prevent larger problems that may shorten your air conditioner’s lifespan.

Call Trio Heating & Air for AC Repair and Maintenance

Trio Heating & Air provides top-notch HVAC services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Committed to customer satisfaction, we provide any type of AC repair and ensure you have cool air during the warmer months. Our team gets the job done right, whether it involves a simple tune-up or replacing a major component. To schedule air conditioning services in your home, call (415) 223-1647 today.

Many factors determine the air duct replacement cost. It’s usually a solid investment because if your ductwork is in good shape, your air conditioning system should be functional and efficient. In addition, AC duct replacement helps you get the most out of our indoor air quality services. To help you plan for improving your home ventilation system, the cost to replace ductwork (according to Angi) looks like this:

• Average Cost: $3,500
• Low-End Cost: $1,000
• High-End Cost: $9,000
• Typical Cost Range: $1,400 to $5,600

Factors That Determine the Cost of AC Duct Replacement

An HVAC contractor uses many variables to calculate the cost of a duct replacement project. The initial home evaluation is an important part of the planning process. It is when installers consider the following factors:

Size of Your Home (In Square Feet)

Although it’s not the only important factor, your home’s size is one of the first considerations. The larger your home, the more ductwork it likely needs and the more materials and labor required. Here’s a look at square footage vs. ductwork replacement costs:

• 1,000 to 2,000 Square Feet: $1,400 to $4,500
• 2,000 to 3,000 Square Feet: $2,800 to $6,700
• 3,000 to 4,000 Square Feet: $4,200 to $9,000

Amount of Ductwork You’re Replacing

The length and number of ducts to replace add to the total cost. Air ducts average $25 to $55 per linear foot. If you’re replacing multiple ducts, the installer may offer a bulk discount rather than add up every linear foot of duct. However, that depends on material and labor expenses. Large homes can require an extensive network of ducts, which requires more materials and time to install.

Placement of Ducts

Some parts of your home may be harder to access than others. For this reason, AC duct replacement can vary significantly in cost depending on the location of old ductwork. Exposed ducts generally cost less to replace than those in areas such as the following:

• Walls/Ceilings: $1,000 to $4,000
• Basements: $1,800 to $3,100
• Attics: $2,200 to $5,600
• Crawl Spaces: $3,000 to $7,300

What Your Ducts Are Made Of

Various ductwork materials are available. Some are more durable and expensive than others. Flexible ducts are the least costly, while sheet metal ducts are the most expensive. The costs of the most common duct material options are as follows:

• Flexible: Non-insulated ducts cost $1 to $3 per linear foot, while insulated ones cost $2 to $4 per linear foot. Flex ducts are generally easy to install but less efficient and heat tolerant. Insulated ones have a higher energy efficiency.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass ducts cost $4 to $6 per linear foot and are more durable. They’re less likely to tear than flexible ducts and don’t require as much support. However, they’re not suited for tight spaces or complex ductwork layouts.
• Sheet Metal: Highly durable and long-lasting, sheet metal ducts cost $7 to $13 per linear foot. They also last the longest. Nonetheless, the installation process can be complicated by the need for additional structural support.

Cost of Insulation

The price of insulation is also factored into the air duct replacement cost. Depending on the insulating material, you may pay $1 to $8 per square foot. But materials aren’t the only cost factor here; installing insulation requires labor, so the total cost of air duct insulation can be from $800 to $2,000. Flexible fiberglass insulation is the cheapest, at $1 to $4 per square foot. Flexible mineral wool ranges from $2 to $4 and rigid or foam board fiberglass insulation is $4 to $8 per square foot.

Labor

As with any HVAC project, labor makes up a large percentage of the cost of AC duct replacement. A contractor can have a set rate per hour. Or, labor fees may be determined by the type of duct, accessibility, materials, and other factors. You may also pay to have old equipment removed and for ductwork planning and design.

Cost of Ductwork Add-Ons

Installing ductwork often involves additional modifications. Depending on the job requirements and your home’s layout, the cost to replace ductwork may be increased by the following:

• Vents: If you add vents, expect to pay $250 to $500 for each. The number of vents needed depends on your home's size and layout. Adding vents can improve circulation but lower the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.
• Sealing: Duct sealing, depending on whether each air leak is sealed manually or the system is treated with a powdered sealant, can range from $400 to $2,700.
• Lining: A durable protective lining called duct armor can add $5,000 to $30,000 to the air duct replacement cost.

Other Costs

Replacing ductwork can be complicated. You may pay other costs aside from installing air ducts. Those that may factor into your overall project budget include:

• Permits: Major home improvements like air duct replacement often require a permit. Depending on your municipality, obtaining a permit can cost $250 to $1,500.
• Ceiling/Drywall Repair: Breaking through walls and ceilings takes time and effort as does repairing and repainting them. Drywall repair can add over $300 to the cost of the project and ceiling repairs can cost as much as $1,200.
• Asbestos or Mold Abatement: Asbestos or mold testing can cost several hundred dollars each. If any of these problems are found, asbestos removal can add up to $2,200 and mold remediation can add up to $6,000 to the cost of AC duct replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Install Ductwork Myself?

Even if you’re good at home DIY projects, duct replacement is better left to a professional. It not only requires precise measurements and cutting. You could violate building codes and local laws, not to mention cause issues such as air leaks, reduced energy efficiency, and damage to your heating and cooling system. Trying to cut costs with DIY duct replacement can also affect your homeowner’s insurance and void the warranty on your entire HVAC system.

What Are the Alternatives to a Complete Ductwork Replacement?

If leaks or other issues are isolated to a specific duct, you can replace only the worn or damaged components. This is a cost-effective way to restore your ductwork. We can work with you to make specific improvements or replace ducts in a room or area being remodeled.

A thorough cleaning can also be an effective duct replacement alternative. If the main issue is debris, dust, or mold, a contractor can address it and the cause. A professional duct cleaning can have many benefits, including restoring optimal airflow and reducing energy bills. In addition, isolated leaks and loose connections can be sealed to address various problems.

How Can I Reduce the Air Duct Replacement Cost?

Air duct replacement can be a costly home improvement project. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities to save. You can cut costs or get more out of your investment by doing the following:

• Invest in insulated ducts to achieve long-term energy savings.
• Compare multiple quotes from reputable HVAC contractors.
• Bundle duct replacement with AC installation and other home services.

You can also reduce costs by maintaining your existing ducts, which may increase the time before air duct replacement is needed. Sealing air leaks when you discover them can limit energy loss and thus keep expenses down.

Call Trio Heating & Air Today

We provide high-quality air duct cleaning, duct sealing, and other services that can put off the cost of AC duct replacement. Our fully trained HVAC technicians also install attic and crawl space insulation, air scrubbers, and whole-house purification systems. Homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area depend on us to ensure they have clean, healthy air to breathe. From air filter replacement to setting up more advanced indoor air quality equipment, our team can deliver personalized solutions to meet your needs. Call (415) 234-4728 to learn more.

Getting air duct installation right improves comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality (IAQ). Ventilation is one of the core components of any HVAC system. Your ductwork provides passages for conditioned air to flow to each room and return to the system to be heated or cooled again. It’s often the source of IAQ issues. Therefore, achieving improved indoor air quality in your home starts with proper air duct installation. 

The following tips for installing ductwork can help improve IAQ and make your indoor air healthier to breathe:

Place Ducts Within Conditioned Spaces

Contamination from the attic, basement, or crawlspace can compromise indoor air quality. It’s often caused by duct leakage in these unconditioned areas. Installing ductwork in conditioned spaces instead limits access to pollution, even if there is a leak. It also minimizes heat loss. To achieve these benefits:

• Install air ducts in a dropped ceiling or chase.
• Place under-floor ducts in open-web floor joists (in a multi-story home).
• Put the air handler in an interior utility closet.
• If installing an air handler in the garage, place it in an air-sealed closet.
• Ensure the attic or crawlspace is unvented, air-sealed, or insulated at the perimeter.

Enclose Attic Ducts In Insulation Wherever Possible

If you can’t install ducts within the building envelope, bury them as deep as possible in attic insulation. Using R-8 or higher insulation can prevent heat loss and condensation, especially when it’s hot and humid (or at least R-13 in climate zone 3a, which includes the Greater San Francisco Bay Area). 

This method is just as effective as installing ducts in a conditioned space. The International Residential Code (IRC) was updated in 2018 to reflect the benefits of buried ducts. It also requires ceiling insulation above and below them to be at least R-19.

Choose High-Quality Ductwork Materials

Subpar ductwork materials can affect IAQ, especially improper insulation. Poor insulation inside air ducts can cause temperature imbalances that lead to condensation and mold growth. Mold spores can then be released from the ductwork and spread throughout your home. Dust, pollen, and other external pollutants can also get into ducts that aren’t properly insulated.

The material a duct is made of matters as well. While easy to install and corrosion-resistant, aluminum ducts aren’t very strong. They’re also vulnerable to thermal expansion and prone to damage that can affect indoor air quality. Flexible ducts can also cause issues. They must be installed properly or else tearing, crimping, and sagging can cause airflow and IAQ issues. The more sustainable materials to consider for air duct installation include:

• Galvanized Steel: Sheet metal ducts are non-porous, reducing the risk of mold. They’re also strong, durable, and non-combustible. They are available as rectangular ducts that more easily fit in limited spaces and round ducts that maximize airflow capacity.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass insulation is often used in sheet metal ducts to prevent condensation. Fiberglass ducts are highly insulative, corrosion-resistant, and block sound from HVAC components and other sources.
• Fiberboard: Fiberboard ducts consist of resin-bonded fiberglass strands. A foil covers the exterior and provides an air and moisture barrier. While the interior isn’t smooth like metal, fiberboard is airtight so long as joints and seams are properly sealed.

Install a Filter at the Return Intake

Return air should be filtered at the last possible point before it reaches the fan. The ideal location is where the return duct connects to an HVAC unit’s intake. A filter here can capture particles from any source, ensuring clean air and protecting mechanical components.

Return grille filters are different. They cover vents that suck air from a room that’s pulled back into your HVAC system. However, they don’t protect against contamination from leaky ducts. Leaks in return ducts beyond the filtration point can pull air and pollutants from the basement, garage, attic, crawlspace, or outside. Properly installed ducts and a well-placed return filter prevent dirt, mold, asbestos, rodent feces, lead dust, and fumes from paints and solvents from getting pulled into the system.

Make Sure All Filters Are Properly Sized

People often think high-efficiency filters block airflow and cause pressure drops in their ductwork. However, a high-quality filter shouldn’t have much of an impact. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) measures how well a filter captures airborne particles and common pollutants. A MERV 13 filter is considered highly efficient. Despite a thicker filtration media, such a filter works best if it’s well-constructed and fits the filter area (so no air can get around it).

Use Mastic to Prevent Leaks

Mastic can be used during air duct installation to seal all joints and seams. It’s also easier to put on ducts during installation when you have full access to your ductwork. When properly applied, mastic can minimize air leakage over the long term, as it’s resistant to deterioration and doesn’t lose adhesion.

Install an In-Duct Air Purifier

In-duct air purifiers serve as whole-home air filtration systems. They include ultraviolet (UV) air purifiers that neutralize germs and odors in your home. Ionization air purifiers are also available. They electrically charge air molecules, causing dust, smoke, and other particles to bond with them and fall to surfaces where they can be wiped or vacuumed away. 

Installing an air purifier during air duct installation ensures you benefit from clean air right away. It can also prevent dirt from building up in ducts in the first place.

In addition to improving indoor air quality, an in-duct, whole-home purifier can have the following benefits:

• Increased Energy Efficiency: Fewer particles and buildup in your ductwork means air can flow more smoothly, allowing your HVAC system to work more efficiently.
• Fewer Repairs: Dust and debris in ducts can make their way into blowers, compressors, and other components; efficient removal can avoid damage and increase the system’s lifespan.
• Reduced Maintenance: Clean, properly installed ducts help reduce repair costs and the need for professional air duct cleaning, which averages a few hundred dollars.
• Smoke-Free Home: If your house has a chimney, smoke can get through air vents. An in-duct air purifier neutralizes smoke before it pollutes indoor air.
• Cleaner Air: High-quality air duct installation, along with a whole-home purifier, can mean bacteria, viruses, fungi, pollen, animal dander, and other contaminants are removed before they can cause allergy symptoms, respiratory problems, or illnesses.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

Properly installed ductwork can improve indoor air quality. At Trio Heating & Air, we provide air sealing, insulation, and duct cleaning services in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our experienced professionals also replace air duct filters and install whole-house purification systems. They also install air scrubbers in the ductwork. For more information about our HVAC, insulation, and air quality services and to request help, call (415) 234-4728 today.