Is it necessary to replace the ductwork during furnace replacement?

Author: Cecilia Simonis I  |  Last update: Sunday, March 30, 2025

Even for most high-efficiency furnaces, you won't need to replace any of the ductwork.

Do you need to replace ductwork when replacing a furnace?

It's not always necessary to replace the ductwork when upgrading the A/C and furnace, but it depends on the condition of the existing ductwork and the compatibility with the new system. In some cases, ductwork may need to be modified or repaired to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Should 20 year old ductwork be replaced?

Visible Damage

Over time, ducts may develop holes and cracks, resulting in a loss of conditioned air. While minor damage can be repaired, extensive damage in ductwork over 15 years old may warrant duct replacement.

Is replacing ductwork worth it?

Replacing the ducts helps eliminate contaminants and promotes healthier air throughout your home. Safety concerns associated with old or damaged ducts, such as fire hazards or backdrafting, can be addressed by replacing the ductwork and ensuring proper ventilation.

How often does HVAC ductwork need to be replaced?

Just like any other equipment, the ductwork system also gets old. Over time, the joints, seals, and seams may weaken and malfunction. As the ductwork deteriorates, it can lead to reduced comfort and increased energy costs. To prevent these problems, you need to replace your ductwork after every 10 years.

Do I Need New Ductwork If I Replace My HVAC System?

What happens if you don't replace ductwork?

When your ductwork is damaged, old, filthy, or clogged in any way, your home is likely to suffer the consequences- high energy bills and discomfort. If you notice your HVAC system's airflow depleting or straining, it may be time for a replacement. Indoor air quality (IAQ) has a direct impact on your health and comfort.

How expensive is it to replace ductwork?

Duct replacement costs typically range from around $20–$60 per linear foot, based on our team's market research. For example, if your home has 100 feet of ductwork, a complete replacement can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.

Does homeowners insurance cover ductwork?

Your homeowner's insurance won't cover cleaning, repairing or replacing your ductwork. What does a home warranty cover when it comes to AC units and ductwork?

How do I know if my ductwork needs to be replaced?

Signs That You Need Air Duct Replacement
  1. Noisy HVAC Operation. ...
  2. High Energy Bills. ...
  3. Uneven Heating or Cooling. ...
  4. Having A Dusty Home. ...
  5. Smelling Mold and Mildew in Your House. ...
  6. Having A Problem with Pests. ...
  7. Having Respiratory Problems. ...
  8. Seeing Debris Around The Vents.

What is the life expectancy of ductwork?

Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years, and starts to deteriorate around year 15. If your ductwork is more than 15 years old, you may need to have the ductwork inspected to see if it is time to replace it. If it is older than 25 years, you almost certainly need to replace the ductwork.

How do I know if I have bad ductwork?

Visible damage or problems

Look for cracks and gaps in the joints, seams, and connections of your ductwork. Holes in these areas increase air loss, higher energy consumption, and draw in dust, pollen, and other particles.

How long does it take to replace ductwork in a house?

The time it takes to replace air ducts in a house depends on the size of your home and the complexity of the duct system. Most residential jobs can be completed within one to two days. During our initial assessment, we'll provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific situation.

How much does it cost to check for duct leaks?

The average duct leakage test costs $325, though most homeowners spend between $115 and $450 depending on home size and ductwork accessibility. However, several other factors can influence what you'll pay.

What is a common mistake in ductwork installation?

Another common mistake is using too small of a duct or underestimating the amount of airflow required. This can result in excessive noise and vibration, as well as decreased efficiency. If your ductwork is not properly insulated, it can cause the air temperature to fluctuate, resulting in hot or cold spots.

Do I have to replace my AC when I replace my furnace?

The only situation in which it isn't advisable to replace both systems at once is if either your furnace or AC is less than 10 years old.

How much does it cost to install a furnace with existing ductwork?

Average Costs for Installing an HVAC System with Ductwork

2-ton HVAC system: $8,000-$12,000, depending on the brand. 3-ton HVAC system: $9,500-$13,500, depending on the brand. 4-ton HVAC system: $11,500-$15,500, depending on the brand.

How can I tell how old my ductwork is?

Finding the Manufacturer Date on Your Commercial HVAC

Sometimes the manufacturer birthdate will be listed as MFR DATE. If that is the case, then you know the age of the equipment. If the MFR DATE isn't listed then look at the model and serial number that is given specifically for each piece of equipment.

How is ductwork tested within a furnace?

The test involves pressurising the duct system with a high accuracy volume flow measuring device that simultaneously measures air flow and its effect on the pressure within the duct system. The tighter the duct system, the less air you need from the fan to create a change in duct system pressure.

Does replacing ductwork increase home value?

Yes, installing a new HVAC system can increase your home value by 5% to 7% with a return on investment (ROI) of about 30%. This projected increase is especially true if you replace your current setup with an energy-efficient system, providing additional benefits to future buyers in the long run.

What is the cost to replace ductwork?

The average cost of ductwork installation is from $1,400 to $5,600. ¹ You can expect to pay $25 to $55 per linear foot. 2 No two ductwork replacement projects are identical, as every home has different requirements.

Will a home warranty replace ductwork?

If you notice unusually high utility bills, lack of air from your vents, or unusual sounds from the air ducts, you might have a ductwork problem. Does a home warranty cover ductwork? Yes, it does.

Can you claim HVAC replacement on homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance covers HVAC systems when the damage is a result of a covered disaster or peril, including high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail or even a fire. So if lightning strikes your unit and damages its electrical components, your homeowners insurance policy would probably cover it.

How much is a HVAC system for a 2000 sq ft house?

How much does a new HVAC system cost for a 2,000 sq. ft. home? The costs range from $6,224 to $11,434, depending on the system type and installation requirements. Key factors include system size, type, efficiency, and local labor rates.

How long does it take to replace ductwork?

The ductwork project takes between 1 to 4 days. The ductwork is mostly impacted by the size of the project. If there are no unexpected challenges, then the system will take only a few days to install. In some cases, the installation can be completed in one day.

How to estimate ductwork cost?

The cost calculation is based on covering an average area of around 100 square feet, with ductwork materials priced at approximately $10.00 per square foot. The labor cost is an estimation of around 20 hours of work at $35.00 per hour, a rate that varies by region and contractor expertise.

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