Ductwork usually outlasts the furnace or AC it serves, but not forever. Before replacing equipment, it is worth knowing whether your ducts can carry the new system.
Signs Your Ducts Are Failing
- Rooms that stay warm or cold while others are comfortable
- Weak airflow from some vents
- Dust returning quickly after cleaning
- Crushed, disconnected or uninsulated ducts in the attic or crawl space
- Old duct wrap that may contain asbestos
Reuse, Seal or Replace
- Reuse: ducts in good condition and the right size for the new system.
- Seal: sound ducts with leaks at joints and connections.
- Replace: damaged, undersized or asbestos-wrapped ducts.
Ducts and Heat Pumps
Heat pumps deliver air at steadier, lower temperatures than gas furnaces and depend on ducts that are sized and sealed well. When switching from a furnace to a ducted heat pump, we check that the ducts can carry the airflow.
Real Projects
In Kensington we replaced asbestos ductwork with new fabricated ducts and a Carrier Infinity furnace. In Berkeley we installed a Payne furnace with new attic ductwork. See ductwork replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to replace ducts with a new furnace?
Not always. Ducts in good condition and the right size can be reused. We inspect them at every estimate.
Can asbestos ductwork be replaced?
Yes. Asbestos-wrapped ducts need proper handling during removal; the Kensington project above replaced them with new fabricated ducts.