A Comprehensive Guide to Sweaty Ductwork

Your HVAC repair contractor will tell you that it’s important to familiarize yourself with your home’s HVAC system and all of its features. Granted, this can be overwhelming for first-time users, but it’s a worthwhile task to undertake so that you can operate your heating and cooling unit with confidence and efficiency. However, there may be instances where you’ll need to have your system repaired or replaced by a professional HVAC contractor. Here are some issues that you may encounter:

• Temperature control problems. If the temperatures around your house aren’t equal, there’s a high probability that there’s a stuck damper or a thermostat issue that’s causing uneven distribution in other areas. This problem usually stems from airflow blockages, dirty evaporator coils or even refrigerant leaks.

• Weird odors coming from the ventilation system. When you encounter this issue, heating and air conditioning maintenance companies highly recommend inspecting the outside of your unit for damage. If you don’t find any damaged areas where the foul odor may be coming from, then you might have a leak that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. We also recommend installing UV air purification systems that can mitigate the spread of foul odors coming from your HVAC unit.

• Electrical problems. If your HVAC unit shuts down suddenly, then you might have a blown fuse problem. It’s a different issue if this happens frequently during your HVAC unit’s operation, since it can signal a problem with your air conditioner’s capacitor. The capacitor ensures that the electrical current that courses through the unit is even. When it runs into complications, then fuses will likely blow up.

However, what can you do if the issue lies within your ductwork system and your ducts start to become “sweaty”? Granted, sweaty ducts do look and sound harmless, but HVAC installation companies would beg to differ, since this can affect your HVAC system’s overall performance and efficiency. It’s worth noting that ductwork condensation can also encourage mold and mildew growth on different surfaces in your home, such as the walls, attic, ceiling and basement or crawl space. In addition to being unsightly, they can also cause respiratory problems for you and your loved ones. In this post, Cafco Services, a top HVAC replacement and maintenance company, shares a comprehensive guide to fixing and preventing ductwork condensation.

What Is Ductwork “Sweating”?

Condensation is a common issue that affects multiple parts of your home, and it can significantly affect the condition of your HVAC unit, requiring you to call on your local HVAC repair company for assistance. It will also affect your air conditioning and heating experience, which is even more important with the winter season approaching.

HVAC installation companies will tell you that condensation is a result of numerous factors. It usually forms when water droplets accumulate on the outside of your HVAC ducts. There are two main reasons why your ductwork can build up condensation: first, uninsulated or poorly-insulated ducts; second, humid air regularly coming into contact with cold ductwork. We explain more about these two key causes below:

• Poor or no insulation. HVAC industry experts state that when warm, moisture-rich air touches the cold surface of your ducts, condensation will start to form. Over time, the condensed water droplets will start to damage your home, affecting your ceilings, drywall and everything in between, including your insulation. Once insulation starts to compress, it begins to lose its ability to insulate your home. When there’s a lack of insulation, your home won’t be as comfortable, which will lead to inefficient energy usage since your heating and cooling system will need to run longer to make your living space comfortable.

• Excessive moisture. Your HVAC repair expert will tell you that there are no issues if cold ductwork comes into contact with dry air. However, problems will arise when humid air from your home’s interior isn’t removed by a dehumidifier. Keep in mind that condensation forms when a cold surface comes into contact with moisture.

Discerning the Root Cause of Ductwork Condensation

Like the aforementioned HVAC issues, ductwork issues can be spotted easily. Here are the signs you need to look out for:

• Leaking ductwork. No matter how durable or sophisticated your ductwork is, there will come a point where it will fail due to natural wear and tear. These leaks will then allow dry air to escape from your ducts and moisture-laden air to enter the ductwork. This is a recipe for disaster since it will rapidly cause moisture buildup in the ductwork, which will then lead to condensation.

• A lack of refrigerant. Your air conditioning unit needs to be topped off with the proper amount of refrigerant for normal operation. This will allow the unit to consistently cool your home to the desired temperature. If you have a low amount of refrigerant, this will reduce the amount of pressure present in the evaporator coils, which further lowers the room temperature. The evaporator and suction line could cause ice formation on the exterior, which will also lead to condensation.

• Poor airflow. In case you experience poor airflow from your air ducts, there might be an obstruction within its pathways. Make sure that you clear it out to allow the air to flow smoothly, as blockages can also cause moisture and condensation buildup.

How to Treat and Prevent Ductwork Condensation

Granted, it’s tough to have to deal with condensation regularly, but there are numerous ways to ensure your HVAC system can function properly. Try following these steps:

• Ensure insulation. Ducts are primarily made out of metal and lack inherent insulating properties, so they’ll take the brunt of the temperature of the air passing through them. Insulating them properly will ensure that condensation won’t form and that your ducts will continue to function properly for years to come.

• Seal it up. Make sure that you seal gaps and openings in the wall near your ductwork to regulate indoor humidity levels. The lower the amount of moisture that passes through your ducts, the lower the chances of condensation forming. You can seal your unit by removing the register or return grill and sealing the duct openings. Secure large duct openings by putting plastic sheets over them. Other areas with high humidity like the bathroom and kitchen should be vented properly.

• Dehumidify. You can also further reduce moisture levels in your home by utilizing a dehumidifier. This is a great solution for ductwork that goes through attics and crawl spaces.

Remember that prevention is better than the cure when it comes to taking care of your ductwork and HVAC unit. Make sure that you have regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the optimal performance of your HVAC unit. Contact Cafco Services if your heating and cooling systems ever run into issues. Fortunately, we have duct sealing services available if you ever need them!

Make your search for heating and air conditioning maintenance companies easier by turning to Cafco Services. When it comes to residential and commercial HVAC services, we’re the number one professionals to approach, and we won’t let you down! Give us a call at (513) 242-3400 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.