Author: Kevin

Is Your Home Ready for Allergy Season? HVAC Tips for Clean Air During the Spring

Written by Kevin on April 25, 2025. Posted in HVAC, Air Conditioning, Air Quality. No Comments on Is Your Home Ready for Allergy Season? HVAC Tips for Clean Air During the Spring

Are you dreading spring’s arrival because it means allergy symptoms will soon follow? At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we value the importance of clean indoor air.

Your home should provide relief from irritants. Proper HVAC preparation can reduce indoor allergens and improve air quality.

Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring Allergy Relief

Prepping your HVAC system before allergy season begins can dramatically improve indoor air quality. Regular HVAC system maintenance means your equipment efficiently filters allergens and maintains healthy circulation.

Professional inspections and servicing help you identify potential issues, such as leaky ductwork or malfunctioning components. Schedule this service in late winter or early spring to ensure your system is ready when needed most.

Upgrading to higher-quality filtration can capture irritants before they circulate. Follow these HVAC tips for clean air during the spring:

Use HEPA air filters to capture fine particles, including pollen and pet dander.
Replace filters every 30 to 45 days during peak allergy season.
Clean filter frames and surrounding areas to prevent dust from bypassing the filter.

Install Advanced Systems for Pollen-Free Indoor Living

Beyond basic maintenance, several advanced options can dramatically improve the indoor environment. These solutions work with your HVAC system to create a comprehensive approach to allergen reduction.

Professional duct cleaning removes accumulated allergens from your air distribution system. Over time, ductwork harbors dust, pollen, and irritants that continuously recirculate throughout your home. Thorough cleaning substantially reduces these particulates.

Air purification systems provide another layer of protection against indoor allergens. Technicians install these systems directly into your existing HVAC setup for whole-home filtration.

Managing Humidity for Allergen Control

Humidity levels play a crucial role in allergen development and persistence. Excessive moisture promotes mold and dust mites, while overly dry air worsens respiratory issues. Consider these options for controlling humidity:

Whole-home dehumidifiers automatically maintain optimal moisture levels.
Smart humidity systems adjust according to outdoor conditions and indoor requirements.

Extend HVAC Protection to Key Living Areas

While your HVAC system forms the foundation of your indoor air quality strategy, complementary approaches enhance its effectiveness. You need to consider allergens that may have built up on surfaces throughout your home.

Mold and allergen prevention begins with addressing moisture issues in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Proper ventilation, leak repairs, and regular cleaning reduce mold spores.

Focus special attention on bedrooms by using allergen-proof covers, washing bedding weekly in hot water, and keeping windows closed during high pollen days.

Breathe Easier This Spring With Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating

Implementing these HVAC tips for clean air during the spring can transform your home into a relaxing sanctuary. At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we specialize in helping homeowners create healthier indoor environments through comprehensive HVAC solutions.

Our technicians can recommend the perfect combination of filtration, purification, and humidity control systems for your allergy concerns. Contact us at (760) 678-7968 to learn more about our HVAC solutions.

Spring Ahead: How To Prepare Your HVAC System for Warmer Weather

Written by Kevin on March 26, 2025. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Spring Ahead: How To Prepare Your HVAC System for Warmer Weather

As spring approaches, you’re probably looking forward to sunny days and warm temperatures. Is your HVAC system prepared to beat the heat? Many homeowners neglect spring HVAC preparation steps, leading to unexpected breakdowns and soaring energy bills during the summer.

At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we believe that a well-maintained system is key to staying comfortable and saving money. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to prepare your HVAC system for spring.

Why Spring HVAC Preparation is Crucial

After months of inactivity, your air conditioner accumulates dust, debris, and wear that affects its performance. Neglecting seasonal HVAC maintenance can lead to inefficient cooling, poor air quality, and expensive repairs.

Replacing or cleaning your air filter is a simple yet effective way to boost performance. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Additionally, inspecting your thermostat settings and ensuring your outdoor unit is free from debris can prevent overheating and improve energy efficiency.

Key Steps for AC System Readiness

Comprehensive spring HVAC preparation steps prevent major issues before they arise. Here’s what you should focus on when preparing your AC for summer:

Clean or replace your air filter every one to three months to maintain proper airflow and system efficiency.
Inspect your ductwork for leaks or blockages to ensure optimal cooling performance and lower energy costs.
Test your unit before the weather heats up to catch potential issues and avoid breakdowns.
Remove leaves, dirt, and debris from your outdoor unit to improve airflow and system longevity.
Schedule professional maintenance to check refrigerant levels, inspect connections, and lubricate moving parts.

Following these warm-weather HVAC tips ensures consistent cooling and reduces your energy bills.

Inspecting Your Unit Before the First Heatwave

Taking proactive steps now can keep your AC running efficiently when temperatures rise. Start by turning off the power to your system before inspecting it. Check for unusual noises or weak airflow, which may indicate mechanical issues.

Also, ensure the condenser and evaporator coils are clean to prevent overheating. Routine maintenance boosts efficiency and prolongs your system’s lifespan. Professional servicing can catch potential problems early, preventing breakdowns during peak summer months.

A well-maintained system improves indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and pollutants that can circulate through your home. In addition to regular maintenance, adopting energy-saving habits can further enhance your system’s efficiency. Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air, close blinds during peak sunlight hours, and seal windows and doors to prevent air leaks.

Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating Keeps Your System Ready for Spring

Proper spring HVAC preparation is the key to a comfortable and energy-efficient home. By following these steps, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy consistent cooling throughout the warmer months.

At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we specialize in comprehensive HVAC maintenance and repairs. Our skilled team is committed to optimizing your air conditioner for peak performance. Call us at (858) 294-0578 to schedule your HVAC pre-season check in San Diego today!

Why Your Heater Keeps Turning On and Off – And How To Fix It!

Written by Kevin on February 28, 2025. Posted in HVAC, Heating. No Comments on Why Your Heater Keeps Turning On and Off – And How To Fix It!

Are you frustrated because your heater keeps turning on and off constantly, disrupting your home’s comfort and potentially driving up your energy bills? You’re not alone! Many homeowners struggle with unreliable heating systems that seem to have a mind of their own.

Reasons Why Your Heater Keeps Cycling On and Off

Short-cycling is a complex issue that can wreak havoc on your home’s heating system. Here are the most common reasons your heater might be behaving erratically:

Dirty filters causing airflow blockage: When your filters clog with dust, debris, and allergens, they force your heating system to work overtime, causing it to overheat and shut down frequently.
Thermostat malfunction or incorrect placement: A thermostat positioned near heat sources or with faulty wiring can send incorrect temperature signals, causing your heater to cycle unpredictably.
Oversized heating system: A furnace that’s too large for your home will heat spaces too quickly, leading to rapid cycling and inconsistent temperatures.
Blocked or closed air vents: Obstructed vents prevent proper air circulation, causing your heating system to struggle and shut down unexpectedly.
Damaged heat exchanger: This critical component can cause serious short-cycling issues and potentially create safety risks for your home.
Malfunctioning blower motor: When the blower motor fails to circulate air properly, it can trigger repeated system shutdowns.
Blocked flue pipe: Obstructions in the exhaust system can cause automatic safety shutoffs, interrupting your heating cycle.

How To Fix Your Heater’s Short-Cycling Problem

Addressing a heater that keeps turning on and off requires a systematic approach. Here are effective solutions to resolve your heating system’s erratic behavior:

Replace air filters regularly: Swap out your filters every few months to ensure unobstructed airflow and optimal system performance.
Check and clean air vents: Ensure all vents are open and free from furniture, curtains, or other obstructions that might impede air circulation.
Verify thermostat functionality: Test your thermostat’s accuracy and consider professional calibration or replacement if it shows signs of malfunction.
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection: A trained technician can diagnose complex issues like heat exchanger damage or blower motor problems.
Consider system sizing: If your furnace is too large, a professional can help you evaluate whether a replacement with the correct size is necessary.
Perform consistent maintenance: Regular tune-ups can prevent many short-cycling issues before they become major problems.

Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating: Your Reliable Heating Partner in San Diego

We understand how disruptive and concerning heater issues can be. Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating is your trusted partner in maintaining a reliable, efficient heating system. Our experienced HVAC professionals offer comprehensive heating system inspections that identify the root causes of short-cycling.

If your heater keeps turning on and off in San Diego, or if you’re experiencing other HVAC issues, contact Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating at 858-206-9303 today. Our expert technicians are standing by to provide professional HVAC solutions you can trust!

New Year, New HVAC: Top Reasons for a New and Improved System

Written by Kevin on January 31, 2025. Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, HVAC. No Comments on New Year, New HVAC: Top Reasons for a New and Improved System

As winter temperatures fluctuate and energy costs rise, you might wonder whether your aging heating and cooling systems can keep up with your comfort needs. Installing a new HVAC system represents a significant investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency, and 2025 might be the year for you to make this upgrade.

At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we understand that deciding when to upgrade your system requires careful consideration of multiple factors. In this guide, we’ll explain why a new HVAC installation might be the right choice for your home.

Understanding Modern HVAC Technology

Today’s heating and cooling systems offer remarkable advances in technology and functionality. The air handler components work seamlessly with other system elements to maintain precise temperature control throughout your home.

A modern heat pump can both heat and cool your home, operating efficiently in San Diego’s mild climate. These versatile systems extract warmth from outdoor air during cooler months and reverse the process for summer cooling.

The latest units offer enhanced performance and require significantly less energy, which is vital for many California homeowners.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your System

Your home’s comfort system directly impacts daily living quality and monthly utility expenses. A new HVAC installation provides several key advantages for homeowners.

The latest systems achieve impressive energy efficiency ratings, potentially reducing monthly utility costs. Modern units use advanced refrigerant formulations that offer improved performance while being more environmentally responsible.

You can enjoy these premier benefits:

Smart Temperature Management

Contemporary HVAC systems incorporate sophisticated zoning system capabilities. This technology allows you to create customized temperature zones throughout your home, ensuring comfort while minimizing energy waste.

You can precisely control temperatures in different areas based on occupancy and personal preferences. Smart thermostats enhance this functionality by learning your schedule and automatically adjusting settings for optimal efficiency.

Improved Performance Metrics

Understanding performance ratings helps you make an informed decision about your new system. The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating indicates cooling efficiency, with higher numbers representing better performance.

Modern systems typically achieve SEER ratings of 16 or higher, compared to older units that might only reach 10. This improvement in efficiency can translate to significant energy savings over the system’s lifetime and a reduced carbon footprint for your home.

The Impact on Home Comfort

A new HVAC system provides more than just temperature control. Advanced filtration systems capture airborne particles more effectively, while variable-speed technology maintains consistent comfort levels.

Newer systems operate more quietly and respond more quickly to temperature adjustments. This responsiveness helps maintain steady comfort levels and air quality throughout your home’s living spaces.

Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating: Your Comfort Solution

When considering a new HVAC system, expertise matters. At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we take pride in helping San Diego homeowners achieve optimal indoor comfort through energy-efficient HVAC solutions.

Our team specializes in tailoring systems to meet your needs and budget requirements. For expert guidance on upgrading your comfort system, contact Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating at (858) 206-9303 to discuss new HVAC options for your San Diego, CA, home.

Environmental Impact of a Well-Maintained Heating Unit

Written by Kevin on December 30, 2024. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Environmental Impact of a Well-Maintained Heating Unit

It’s easy to overlook the connection between indoor comfort and our planet’s health. What’s the environmental impact of a well-maintained heating unit?

As the go-to HVAC specialists in San Diego, we at Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating know a thing or two about sustainable heating solutions. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Proper Heater Upkeep Is Good for the Environment

Clean filters and tuned-up parts mean your heater works smarter, not harder. That way, it doesn’t use as much power to reach your desired temperature. Then, with less fossil fuel burned, either directly from gas-type models or indirectly through electricity, your overall emissions go down.

A well-maintained unit lasts longer, and fewer replacements mean less waste. It’s a small step that adds up over time.

Boost Your Heating Unit Efficiency Even Further

Can you take your reduced emissions heating to the next level? Take these steps:

Look into energy-saving heating units: If you plan to upgrade your setup, get a model with a high SEER rating. Eco-friendly heating systems use less power and often qualify for rebates.
Get a smart thermostat: Today’s smart devices automatically learn your schedule and preferences, adjusting your heating to save energy. You’ll stay comfortable without wasting power.
Improve your insulation: Seal gaps and cracks, and check your attic insulation. You lose the positive environmental impact of a well-maintained heating unit when all its produced warmth leaks out!
Consider alternative energy sources: Why not take advantage of the California sun? Solar panels could power your heater and reduce your reliance on non-renewables.

More Than Just HVAC Environmental Benefits

It’s good to maintain your heater for the planet. It doesn’t hurt that it also comes with practical perks. For example:

Cheaper Usage Costs

Compare utility bills before and after starting a consistent tune-up routine. You’ll notice the savings add up, especially during peak winter months. The money you would have spent on wasted energy could go toward other priorities.

Fewer Repairs

The last thing anyone wants is an unexpected heater breakdown when the temperatures drop. Keep your appliance’s components in top shape and avoid costly surprises. Regular tune-ups catch small issues before they snowball.

Better Air Quality

Does your property have allergy-prone inhabitants? A heater’s filters actively catch dust, pollen, pet dander, and other irritants, but you need to replace them every so often.

The accumulated debris would otherwise block the airflow and make the system work harder. This not only raises your energy costs but also sends more pollutants into your space.

Boosted Performance

Why does it seem to take forever to warm up your rooms? Why are there cold spots everywhere? If you’re absolutely sure you have the appropriate heater size, it’s probably a maintenance issue.

Your Dependable Heating Specialists in San Diego

It’s always worth considering the environmental impact of a well-maintained heating unit. Start your green journey with a trusted crew like Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating!

Dial (858) 294-0578 to book scheduled tune-ups or send us a question.

Home Heating Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Written by Kevin on November 27, 2024. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Home Heating Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Who doesn’t love coming home to a warm, toasty space after enjoying a day filled with fun wintertime activities? This wouldn’t be possible without your heater, so you should be careful about taking proper care of it. Unfortunately, homeowners can make mistakes that seem minor but impact their heater’s performance.

Here are some of the top home heating mistakes and how to avoid them to keep your home comfortable and cozy all winter long.

Setting the Thermostat to a Too-High Temperature

If it’s an especially chilly day outside, you might want to mess with the thermostat settings and turn up the temperature. You might even feel tempted to turn it up as high as possible, but this is a bad idea for a few reasons.

First, turning up the temperature too high makes your heating system have to work even harder. This increases strain on your heater, and if you make it a habit, you could end up reducing your system’s lifespan.

Second, setting a temperature that’s too high will make your heater consume more energy, leading to higher utility bills. So, while you’re nice and warm in your home, you’ll end up receiving higher energy bills. To avoid these issues, set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature and use other methods like bundling up to keep warm.

Closing Any of the Vents

When it comes to common home heating mistakes and how to avoid them, homeowners often think that it’s a good idea to close off the vents to unused rooms. This sounds good in theory, but closing the vents can cause problems down the line, like air duct damage, reduced energy efficiency, and even carbon monoxide leaks.

The best way to avoid this is to simply leave all the vents open and make sure nothing is blocking them, like furniture.

Ignoring Proper Heater Maintenance

Routine maintenance is essential for your heater. Without it, you could end up with a clogged air filter and an inefficient system, leading to higher energy bills. In more serious cases, you could deal with overheating risks or a complete shutdown.

Investing in professional maintenance helps keep your heater in the best shape possible while avoiding potential problems and inefficiencies. During a maintenance service, your heating technician checks the air filter, electrical components, moving parts, and every other area of your heater to make sure everything is working properly.

The cost of investing in maintenance is minuscule compared to the cost of a premature replacement or expensive repair, so don’t overlook this essential task!

Let Our Experts Take Care of Your Heating System for You

Understanding the most common home heating mistakes and how to avoid them can help you have a more reliable and efficient heating system. Plus, greater efficiency means significant heating cost reduction and a better system lifespan.

At Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, we can’t understate the importance of scheduling annual maintenance for your heater. If you want to avoid these common problems and maximize your heating systems’ performance, call (858) 294-0578 to schedule a service! We can help with sealing drafts, fixing systems, and more.

How To Spot Bad Ductwork

Written by Kevin on October 30, 2024. Posted in Ducting, HVAC. No Comments on How To Spot Bad Ductwork

Ventilation and airflow are the absolute lifeblood of every HVAC system. When ductwork fails, systemic problems are likely to escalate rapidly, making knowing how to spot bad ductwork an essential part of ordinary maintenance.

Below, our team at Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating, San Diego’s top HVAC expert since 1977, discusses some of the leading warning signs that your ductwork may be due for inspection, maintenance, or replacement.

Uneven Temperatures in Your Home

A common sign of ductwork trouble is uneven heating or cooling from room to room inside your home. This is typically related to poor duct design, leaks, or blockages.

When air can’t move freely through your ductwork, your HVAC system will struggle to maintain consistent temperatures and operate under undue stress, wasting energy and risking breakdowns.

Weak or Poor Airflow

Has the airflow coming from any of your system’s vents become weak, irregular, or nonexistent? You can perform a simple home test to check for this by holding a piece of paper near a vent. If it barely moves, your ducts may have leaks, blockages, or improperly sized sections.

Weak airflow is also a warning sign of inefficient HVAC operation that can shorten your equipment’s lifespan.

Strange Noises From the Ducts

While some noise is normal when your HVAC system is running, unusual sounds like rattling, whistling, or banging are sure signs of problems.

These noises often occur when sections of the ductwork become loose or disconnected. If ductwork is improperly installed, it can also eventually begin rattling or banging. These sounds are likely indications of significant air loss, directly cutting into your system’s efficiency.

Increased Energy Bills

Many times, the first sign of airflow issues related to ductwork trouble comes as an unexpected surge in utility bills. Leaky or broken ducts drain the cool or warm air your system generates before it ever reaches your living space. This means you are paying to run your HVAC system much longer than normal to produce the standard level of climate control.

Visible Damage and Dust Buildup

During regular household cleaning, check for any visible damage to your vents or ducts, like cracks, gaps, or disconnected sections. Also, look for excessive dust buildup in your home. Damaged ducts allow dirt, dust, and other contaminants to bypass your filter and enter the system, reducing indoor air quality.

Call Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating To Inspect and Remedy Bad Ductwork

Now that we’ve discussed how to spot bad ductwork, call our friendly professionals at Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating for a full ductwork inspection and assessment of your HVAC system if you see signs of trouble.

Whether your system needs minor adjustments or age has taken its toll and you should consider more extensive remediation or replacement, we’ll provide you with straightforward advice and our honest assessment of your best options.

Call our team at Bob Jenson Air Conditioning & Heating today at (858) 294-0578 to schedule an appointment along with regular maintenance to keep your ducts and HVAC system in top shape.

HVAC Repair vs. Replacement | What’s the Best Choice for Your Home?

Written by Kevin on September 30, 2024. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on HVAC Repair vs. Replacement | What’s the Best Choice for Your Home?

When a unit in your HVAC system breaks down, you’re left scratching your head over whether you should repair or replace it. You’ll have to spend a small fortune to replace it, but sticking to repairs could add up over time if you’re always repairing it. So, what’s a homeowner to do?

Bob Jenson can help with all your repair and replacement woes. We can help you learn more about HVAC repair vs. replacement to learn how to choose; when in doubt, give us a call.

The Difference Between HVAC Repair vs. Replacement

Ask homeowners if repairing or replacing is better, and you’ll get a mixed bag of results. Repairing is often better for small problems since the HVAC technician can replace a simple part or two.

If your system is riddled with issues, replacing it might be better. While it doesn’t make sense to replace an air conditioner when it’s just a problem with the fan, it doesn’t make sense if it’s the fan, evaporator coils, refrigerant, and condenser. Some homeowners may choose to continue repairing until they can’t anymore, so it’s ultimately up to you and your wallet.

How To Determine the Best Choice

In the great debate of HVAC repair vs. replacement in San Diego, CA, we encourage you to give Bob Jenson a call to clear it up. That said, if you’re struggling to make a decision, you should think about these factors:

Age: Systems less than 10 years old still have a lot of life left in them. If the unit is over 10 years old and maintained annually, you can probably get by with a repair, but if you didn’t maintain your old unit, it’s time to upgrade. Otherwise, you’ll notice rapid performance degradation.
Warranty: Check if your equipment warranty is still valid to determine if you should repair or replace your unit.
HVAC repair vs replacement cost: Ask your HVAC technician for price estimates of repairing and replacing so you can make a thorough cost analysis.
Repair frequency: How often have you repaired your HVAC system lately? If it’s becoming increasingly more common, you’re probably due to replace it soon. Repairs will only happen more often as the end of the system lifespan approaches.
Energy efficiency: An aging system that’s no longer energy efficient causes noticeable monetary and environmental impacts. Upgrading will do a lot of good for you and the planet.
Financial incentive: You may be eligible for government incentives to upgrade your HVAC system to more eco-friendly equipment. Consider this before you choose to repair your outdated system again.
Moving: If you’re moving houses in the near future, ask yourself if replacing the unit is worth it. A new unit may increase your property value, but consider the possibility of needing to replace the unit in your new home soon.

Call Bob Jenson for All Your HVAC Needs

Let the Bob Jenson crew settle the HVAC repair vs. replacement debate for you. We can inspect your unit and give you our advice. Or, if you made a decision already, call us at (619) 324-3633 to schedule our AC repair services in San Diego, CA.

Navigating the Year-Round Climate: HVAC Tips for Southern California Residents

Written by Kevin on August 28, 2024. Posted in San Diego, Air Conditioning. No Comments on Navigating the Year-Round Climate: HVAC Tips for Southern California Residents

Southern California has some of the best temperatures year-round. According to the U.S. News & World Report, Santa Barbara, San Diego, and Los Angeles are among the top three best places to live based on weather. But, despite this, temperatures hit unusual highs and lows, and you’ll need proper HVAC tips to mimic the comfortable climate you’re used to.

When chilly winters dip below 45 degrees and summers surpass the usually balmy 80-degree highs, you’ll put your furnace or air conditioner to work. Below, our trusted San Diego team at Bob Jenson, which has been around since 1977, explains what these systems need from you to work optimally.

Seasonal DIY Maintenance

Every three to four months, consider doing the following as part of your DIY maintenance checklist.

Change the Air Filters

Whether it’s a furnace or cooling unit, your system has air filters that trap dirt and dust. That way, debris doesn’t enter your unit (settling on internal components and causing them to slow), nor does it spew back out into your rooms (causing excessive filth in your home). However, even with filters, this can happen if you’re not careful.

After a while, contaminants build up on the meshy surface, and once the wall of debris gets thick enough, particles break off and rerelease into the air. So, clean the filters with mild soap and a gentle brush, or purchase new ones.

Clean Your System

Filters aren’t the only things you should clean. Other HVAC tips include cleaning:

Air vents and ductwork
The areas around your evaporator and condenser units
Evaporator coils

Check the Thermostat Setting

Next on your list should be checking your thermostat settings, especially when going from warm to cool months or vice versa. Ensure your thermostat is set to cooling or heating, respectively, to avoid incorrect indoor temperatures. Also, check that the degree setting is correct, which, according to the Department of Energy, is between 68 and 78 degrees when you’re home.

Furthermore, replace the thermostat batteries if your HVAC unit is long or short cycling or you have unusually high electric bills. If the thermostat is malfunctioning or refusing to turn on altogether, HVAC tips include a specialist checking for wiring issues.

Semi-Annual Professional Maintenance

In addition to DIY maintenance, contact a professional HVAC technician once in the spring and then again in the fall so they can perform a more in-depth system inspection. These help prepare your units for seasons of heavy use and allow experts to make necessary repairs afterward for increased efficiency, cooling capacity, and energy savings. Some checkpoints on their lists include:

Lubricating moving parts
Inspect ductwork and flue systems
Securing electrical connections
Checking refrigerant lines and charges
Cleaning filters, coils, and drain lines

However, professional maintenance is only as good as the technicians you choose, so count on the team rated 4.9 stars on Google and five stars on Yelp and Facebook. For over 45 years, we’ve assisted all residents in San Diego and surrounding SoCal areas. So, for more HVAC tips or to schedule services, call Bob Jenson at 619-202-5726 today!

Out With the Old: Common Outdated Ducts in Southern California Homes

Written by Kevin on August 22, 2024. Posted in Ducting, Heating. No Comments on Out With the Old: Common Outdated Ducts in Southern California Homes

Last Modified: 8/22/24

What Is Ductwork Made Out Of?

If you have a home with old duct work, you are likely throwing money out the window. The California Energy Commission reports that the average duct system leaks 30 percent of the air that flows through it. Take a look at five older duct types that are common in Southern California and see if you can recognize your type in this list:

Unlined flex duct displayed in an installation setting, showcasing its flexible and smooth interior for streamlined air flow

Ridged Round / Super Round Ducts

– These are round ducts made entirely from formed fiberglass. As the fiberglass is exposed to the airstream, it finds its way into the home when it deteriorates. The R-value (or the capacity of the insulating material to resist heat—the higher the R-value, the better) is medium to low and these ducts tend to have a lot of leakage at all connection points.

How long does ductwork fiberglass ductwork last? On average fiberglass duct work shows signs of aging after 10-15 years.

Unlined Flex Ducts

– These are round flexible ducts with fiberglass insulation wrapped around a spiral metal wire core. The fiberglass is often fully or partially exposed to the air stream, which can cause problems as it deteriorates. Debris gathers on the inside walls easily. R-value is medium to high, and leakage occurs due to tearing and older duct tapes that break down in attic heat.

Insulated tin duct in an attic, wrapped with thick insulation material to enhance HVAC efficiency and air quality

Tin Ducts

– These are usually smaller round metal ducts that lack galvanizing and tend to rust inside. R-value is very low due to poor, thin insulation wrapped around the outside, which gets torn or falls off the ducts. This type of duct work has high leakage due to rarely sealed connection points that are often just screws or welds.

Galvanized ductwork installed in an attic, showcasing its sturdy metal construction designed for durable HVAC air flow

Galvanized Metal Ducts

– With these types of larger round metal ducts, there is actually efficient airflow from lack of friction. However, poorly hand-wrapped insulation on the outside lowers R-value to give it medium to high air leakage depending on the type of sealing at connection points. With this system, fiberglass is not exposed to the air stream.

Gray flex duct in an attic, demonstrating its flexible design and installation in a home's HVAC system for air distribution

Flex Ducts In Attics (Grey)

– These are insulated flexible round ducts found in many tract homes. They are made of a metal spiraled core with a plastic inner liner wrapped in R-4.2 fiberglass insulation and covered in a grey plastic outer jacket. The outside jacket of these early flexible ducts easily deteriorates from the UV light and allows the insulation to fall apart, finally exposing the inner plastic liner to the heat and UV elements. Ultimately, this type of system breaks apart and the result is major air leakage, along with dust and debris infiltration.

So what can homeowners do to improve air flow efficiency once they’ve identified old and outdated materials? Take a look at just a few suggestions:

Upgrade to Flex Duct (Silver Metalized Jacket)

– These are the newest generation of flexible ducting that features upgraded materials to protect against UV and temperature damage. They have a higher R-value and, if installed properly, can produce as little as 6% leakage.

1. Seal ducts. If you can avoid it, do not use duct tape or any other temporary sealing fixes. You want your duct repairs and efficiency improvements to last as long as your ducts do. If there are leaks in your ductwork that are smaller than a quarter inch, you can apply a bead of mastic. If the leaks are wider than that, apply mastic that is at least 3 inches wide and runs the entire leak length. After that, apply a coat of fiberglass mesh, at least 2 inches in width, and then put another layer of mastic on top of that. The process is not especially difficult, but if you have never watched someone do it before, it can be tedious. You might fare better to ask a professional like Bob Jenson to help you with your sealing project.

2. Add duct wrap. Flexible ducts and duct board generally have strong R-values, but if you have sheet-metal ducts you may want to add some extra insulation with the help of duct wrap. This does not actually fix leaks but it will keep the air from completely escaping the duct system.

Imagine the savings over time on your utility bill if you were able to prevent the cost of duct leaks. If your Southern California home features duct work that could use a checkup and update, or if you’re interested in ditching the ducts altogether in favor of a ductless system, contact a professional HVAC technician like Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Heating.