Why January Is the Best Time for Installation
Committing to improving energy efficiency can be a cost-effective and lasting New Year’s resolution. We’ll look at how scheduling ductwork installation in January can help you achieve your goals for this year.
Professionals often recommend ductwork installation, replacement, and other HVAC improvements during the off-season. Contractors are less busy during the spring and fall, and prices tend to be lower. But January isn’t part of either of these seasons. That doesn’t mean you can’t start the year with efficiency improvements. When a duct sealing and insulation service isn’t enough, there’s no harm in updating your air ducts, especially during Kieser’s and Salem’s relatively mild winters.
Here are some reasons to install new ductwork now:
Start the Year with a More Efficient Home
Even if you installed a new AC or heater not long ago, aging ducts may contribute to higher utility costs. Cracks, holes, and loose connections can disrupt airflow and cause leaks. Therefore, your HVAC system can’t work as efficiently. Installing new ductwork in January can avoid the excessive energy consumption that kept your bills high last year.
An improved design, properly installed ductwork, and newer insulation ensure your heating and cooling system is efficient year-round. Not only will your heater run more efficiently over the next few months, but your air conditioner will also be more efficient when you turn it on for the cooling season.
HVAC Contractors May Offer Lower Prices
How your local HVAC contractor sets prices is a matter of supply and demand. While the cost of equipment and materials factors in, reduced demand means better deals may be available. Ductwork installation is more affordable if a company offers generous discounts and specials. These are few and far between in the summer. If it’s a mild winter, contractors may be less busy fixing heaters; therefore, discounts on equipment and labor can be easier to find.
Service Is Easier to Schedule
Most homeowners aren’t thinking about replacing ductwork in January. If your local HVAC contractor isn’t busy providing this kind of service, you’ll more likely have a choice of installation dates and times. Companies are also not dedicating time to servicing air conditioners. Therefore, the opportunity to schedule ductwork installation around your obligations is a bonus.
Get a Head Start on Improving Indoor Air Quality
Why not start the year with cleaner air to breathe? Spaces in your old ductwork may allow dust, pollen, and a host of pollutants to enter your ventilation system and circulate in your home. Particulates, chemicals, and organic pollutants like mold and viruses can contribute to various health concerns. Ductwork replacement can reduce or eliminate these and lead to overall improvements in your comfort and well-being.
Improved Comfort
Winter cold spells are difficult times if your HVAC system isn’t working properly. Inconsistent temperatures are often not due to faulty heating equipment but ductwork leaks. An air duct problem can leave parts of your home too cold. Replacing ducts can optimize airflow so your entire home is warm and cozy this season. You may also sleep better, be more productive, and enjoy quality time with your family.
Less Strain On Your Furnace
Ductwork installation helps your heating system work more smoothly. A loss of conditioned air or an intrusion of cold air from outside can force your heater to overwork itself. Aside from struggling to maintain a comfortable temperature, it may wear out more quickly. Your furnace may require repairs or replacement before long no matter how new or old it is. Therefore, investing in new ductwork now can save you substantially over time.
Increase Your Property’s Resale Value
Are you thinking of putting your home on the market this year? New ductwork can make it more valuable. Potential homebuyers may be more likely to consider your property. You may also be successful in negotiating a higher price for your home.
Why is this so? New ducts can improve the overall function of your HVAC system, making the house a more pleasant place to live. A new owner also won’t have to invest in ductwork upgrades. Therefore, you can get a good return on your investment.
Other Reasons to Consider New Ductwork Installation
Uneven heating and higher energy bills are signs your air ducts need replacement. However, the following are also reasons not to wait another season to update your ductwork:
- Peace of Mind: A new year has begun. Why not start things off fresh? With new ductwork, your home should be comfortable, safe, and efficient. Your HVAC system should also work more smoothly and have fewer problems.
- Quieter Performance: Improperly sized, damaged, or leaky ductwork can cause your HVAC system to produce more noise. With new ductwork, the system should run more quietly.
- Reduced Odors: If there are unpleasant odors from your vents or throughout your home, their source may be old ductwork. Dirty, worn, or poorly designed ducts can be difficult to clean. Replacing the system is often the best solution.
- Better Airflow: When you feel less airflow from vents, it’s often accompanied by inconsistent temperatures and other issues. Air ducts may have too many cracks or holes to repair or sections of them may have collapsed. Ductwork installation this January can mean having optimal airflow and comfort this year and beyond.
- Home Expansion: Have you recently built a home addition or converted a garage or attic? Updating your ductwork may increase the amount of space your HVAC system can heat or cool.
How Long Should My Ductwork Last?
Your ductwork should last at least 10 to 15 years. By this time, it can start to wear down and parts of it can crack, corrode, and break apart. Higher-quality materials last longer, but aging ductwork should be inspected regularly. Call a professional if you start noticing airflow issues or damage to exposed ductwork.
What If I Want to Replace My Entire HVAC System?
Replacing your entire HVAC system (heater, AC, and ductwork) at once is a good idea. It ensures all components match, older parts don’t reduce performance and efficiency, and there are no warranty issues. Your installer may also offer discounts for packaged services. While this is more common in spring and fall, you can still find good prices in January compared to the warmer months.
Call Air Stars Today
At Air Stars, our experienced HVAC professionals can help you decide whether to repair, seal, or replace your ductwork this January. We can fix leaky ducts or add insulation where possible, using the latest techniques to streamline the process. Our team also provides other indoor air quality services, such as installing air filters and purifiers or energy recovery ventilation systems. To learn whether it’s time to start the year with ductwork installation or other improvements, call (503) 461-4014 today.
