Older homes — like many here in Cleveland and other historic Midwest cities — often come with aging or poorly designed ductwork. If your home is more than 25 years old or you are unsure when the ductwork was last inspected or replaced, you’re likely in need of professional ductwork services. 

Why Older Homes May Need Ductwork Services

Older homes often require ductwork services because the original duct systems were not designed for modern HVAC efficiency, comfort standards, or indoor air quality needs. Ductwork services are especially important in older homes due to aging and deterioration, inefficient design for modern HVAC systems, energy waste, poor indoor air quality, inconsistent room temperatures, and health and safety hazards.

Asbestos in Older Ductwork

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of microscopic fibers that are heat-resistant, durable, and fireproof. Because of these properties, asbestos was widely used in construction materials, including duct insulation, from the early 1900s through the 1970s. However, asbestos was phased out and banned in many applications because its tiny fibers are extremely dangerous when inhaled. Once disturbed, asbestos fibers can remain airborne for hours, entering the lungs and staying lodged in body tissues.

Why asbestos is a concern in older homes:

• Hidden hazard: Many homeowners don’t know asbestos is present because it often looks like harmless insulation.
• Disturbance risk: Routine work (like duct repairs, HVAC upgrades, or attic cleanouts) can accidentally disturb asbestos.
• Improper handling: DIY removal or cleaning can release dangerous fibers into the air.

Signs of Ductwork Issues in Older Homes

Here are the most common signs of ductwork issues in older homes, especially relevant for houses built before the 1980s, like many found in Cleveland. Identifying these early can save you money on energy bills, extend the life of your HVAC system, and improve comfort and air quality:

• Uneven heating or cooling: Some rooms are too hot or too cold, even when the system is running.
• Weak or inconsistent airflow: Vents blow little or no air, especially in distant rooms.
• High energy bills: Your HVAC system runs constantly but can’t keep up.
• Older or damaged duct materials: Ducts wrapped in cloth-like or paper insulation (potential asbestos), rusted metal, or sagging flexible ducts.
• Excess dust and poor air quality: You clean constantly, but dust returns quickly, leading to potential allergy or asthma flare-ups.
• Musty or strange odors coming from vents: Air smells stale, moldy, or burnt when your HVAC runs.
• Whistling, rattling, or banging sounds: Ducts make noises when air flows, especially at startup or shutdown.
• Cold sports near ducts: You feel cold air or drafts coming from unconditioned spaces (attic/basement) near duct runs.
• Presence of asbestos: Visible gray or white duct installation, especially on metal ducts in basements or crawl spaces.
• Home has original HVAC or dust system: If your ductwork hasn’t been inspected or replaced in 30+ years, there’s a high chance it’s inefficient or deteriorated.

Our Ductwork Services

Without proper ductwork, your HVAC system can’t efficiently heat or cool your home, meaning you won’t be comfortable and your energy bills will be higher. At Heart of Ohio, we understand the importance of high-quality ducts, which is why we provide duct cleaning, repair, and installation services in Northeast Ohio.

Why Choose Us?

As the leading HVAC company in Akron and the surrounding areas of Northeast Ohio, Heart of Ohio has been providing premier ductwork services to homeowners since 1922. Our team of professionals is highly skilled in providing the best HVAC solutions with upfront pricing and free estimates.

Contact Heart of Ohio today for ductwork services in your Cleveland home!