Most homeowners are aware that heating and cooling the home is the most expensive portion of the utility bill, but not all are aware of the amount of control they have over that usage. To help make sure you’re getting the most for your money when it comes to energy consumption, it’s a good idea to take a look at your home’s ductwork.

When Should Your Ductwork Be Inspected?

If it’s been over a year, you’re behind schedule. Annual maintenance is critical to efficient circulation. A professional can perform inspections that you can’t do visually. They can find and fix any leaks in the ductwork and measure the airflow to make sure there are no obstructions. They’ll also check for dirt to ensure that the air circulating is clean for your health and your system.

Is Your Energy Use Increasing?

Most utility companies reflect a comparison between current and prior year for both energy use and energy cost. A cost increase may just be the product of rate increases. But an increase in energy use may indicate leaky ductwork. You’ll want to make sure those leaks are fixed so the conditioned air is delivered to the correct areas inside your home.

Are the Intake and Return Vents Clean and Unobstructed?

Dirty air filters are common issues, but so are problems with the registers in each of the rooms. If they’re closed or dirty, the system won’t work properly and some parts of the home won’t receive the conditioned air they need. Make sure registers are clear of debris and not blocked by furniture

For more information about your home’s ductwork or if you have any other HVAC needs, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Kansas Controls Heating and Cooling.