Reddy Kancharla: Inspecting Air Ducts

Reddy Kancharla believes it is best to inspect air ducts at least once a year to keep them clean and free of debris, which will improve air quality and the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. Additionally, catching minor issues before they become worse will save you money on repair work and keep professional inspections to a minimum. And although getting professionals to do the job is always an excellent idea, there are a few basic maintenance steps you can do on your own.

Examining the Ductwork

When inspecting your air ducts, you will need a screwdriver, flashlight, rags, and a digital camera (or smartphone with a flash). Also, Reddy Kancharla suggests dressing appropriately for the job. So, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty in and rubber gloves.

The central unit and large ducts will be your first stop (connected to the branch ducts that run throughout the house). One side blows air through the branch ducts in the duct system while the other side pulls air.

Turn on your HVAC system and check for air leaks around all air duct connections. To do this, you can wet your hand a little to increase the sensitivity of your ability to detect air leaks. Or, you can use an incense stick or a thin piece of toilet paper to test for leaks.

Branch Ducts: If there are visible ducts in your home, you should inspect them next. First, examine the insulation around them for signs of damage, such as ripped pieces, damp spots, or mold. A wet area would indicate a blockage and a problem with indoor air quality. Contact your local technician to repair your ductwork if you notice damage to your insulation or mold or moisture problems.

Essentially, you're looking for air movement around your duct seams and connections. So, Reddy Kancharla also recommends inspecting your air duct insulation for damage and wet spots while testing for air leaks.