Is My Ducting Getting Old

Whether your ducting is flexible or rigid, plastic or metal, there are some clear signs you can find to understand whether your ducting is old or not. We will list them below.

Metal Ducting:

• Visible damage: Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or dents on the metal surface. These weaknesses can create leaks.

• Deformation: Over time, metal ducts can become warped or misaligned due to physical stress or temperature fluctuations. This can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.

• Disconnected sections: Check for loose or disconnected joints or seams where the metal ductwork connects. These gaps allow air leaks and potentially noise transmission.

• Reduced air flow: If you notice a decrease in airflow from vents despite having the system running normally, it could be a sign of blocked or deteriorating ducts.

Plastic Ducting:

• Cracks and tears: Plastic is prone to becoming brittle with age, so look for cracks, splits, or tears in the plastic material. These openings can cause leaks and potentially noise issues.

• Deformation: Similar to metal, plastic ducts can become warped or misshapen over time due to heat exposure or physical strain. This reduces airflow efficiency.

• Brittleness: As plastic ages, it loses flexibility and becomes brittle. This makes it more susceptible to cracking or breaking when touched or moved.
• Sun damage: If the plastic ductwork is exposed to sunlight (especially for extended periods), it can become discolored and weaken, potentially leading to cracks or leaks.

Flexible Ducting (Metal or Plastic):

In addition to the signs mentioned above for metal and plastic ducts, flexible ducting has some specific issues to watch for:

• Collapsed sections: Flexible ducts can lose their shape or collapse over time, especially if they’re not properly supported. This significantly reduces airflow.

• Disconnected ends: Flexible ducts rely on clamps or connectors to secure them to other ductwork sections. Check for loose or disconnected ends that can create leaks and noise issues.
• Dryness and cracking: Flexible ducting made of some materials can dry out and become brittle with age, increasing the risk of cracks and tears.

Rigid Ducting (Metal or Plastic):

Rigid ducts share some aging signs with their flexible counterparts, but with a focus on maintaining their shape:

• Cracked or loose joints: The focus here is on the connections between rigid duct sections. Look for cracks in the sealant or loose fittings that could allow leaks and noise transmission.

• Disconnected sections: Similar to flexible ducts, ensure all connections between rigid duct pieces are secure and sealed properly. Gaps can compromise airflow and potentially allow noise to travel.

• Internal blockages: While less common, rigid ducts can accumulate dust, debris, or even insulation particles over time, restricting airflow.

Signs of old ducting for any kind of duct

There are some additional signs that can indicate that your ducting is aging, regardless of the type that it is. This includes:

• Increased noise: Noticing an increase of noise instantly, or over time can be a sign in a reduced efficiency of your ducting or HVAC system.

• Mould: If mould is growing inside your ducting, it can become a serious health hazard. Mould in your ductwork is a clear sign that there is an issue within your ducting or HVAC unit.

• Increased energy bills: If your ducting is too old, or damaged, it can force your HVAC unit to work harder than it normally had been, this will result in a higher energy bill than usual.

Where can I find replacement ducting?

I-Sells is an established and trusted provider of ducting, sealant, ventilation solutions and much more! Simply click this link to see our range of items available. Whether you are buying it for yourself, or you are a HVAC expert, and everything in-between, we cover almost every possibility.

Struggling to figure out which option works best for you? Not to worry! Simply contact us about your enquiry, and we will try our best to help you find a solution that helps you to breathe a little more easily, literally!

Can anyone install ducting?

For domestic settings, depending on the complexity of the installation, it is possible for almost anyone to install ducting themselves. However, any electrical installations must be completed and checked by a qualified electrician.

Regarding ducting, we would generally recommend that you use the services of an expert to install it. Professional installers will be sure to…

• Make sure your ducting is the right fit for the HVAC item you are using.

• Ensure that installation of the ducting does not damage the structure or any internal components of the building.

• Check to make sure the HVAC item is working with the ducting as it should.

Purchase ducting today