How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, growth, and other particles. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it might be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts promote energy efficiency because they are sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are affordable. However they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape and this can reduce the efficiency of energy in a home. Leaks usually occur at the point where duct segments join particularly at joints. These sections can separate and become loose in time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air however, it’s recommended to engage an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in your ducts by performing an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are damaged or kinked, which indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Verify if the seams or joints are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks probably exist in that area.

Another sign of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots throughout the house. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this could explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at an even temperature.

Even when the household activities are unchanged, gaps in ductwork can distribute dust throughout a structure. Dust mould spores, mites and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also release toxic fumes into the living area. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into your living space and expose your family members to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous when you have children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts are more prone to sweat than they should. This is a serious problem, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are many steps homeowners can take to reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.

The first thing to do is reduce the use of water in the home as much as you can. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also use a dehumidifier to make their home dryer.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold or other problems. Professionals must clean and seal the ducts in the event of issues.

Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of improperly installed joints or seals that can cause cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is by ensuring all joints and connections are correctly installed and using top-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are made of various materials. Each type has its own characteristics that affect the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they have the least life span and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Another issue with ducts is they may be blocked by toys, furniture and other items which can impede airflow. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

The blocked ducts can also lead to uneven heating and cooling, which can be a significant issue in older buildings that have poorly constructed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects that they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should contact an HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and at what cost the expert can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid environment in which the mold spores thrive. The spores then get circulated throughout the house through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms in household members.

Visual signs of mold around the air vents are an indication that you need to engage an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of growth of mold. If the area appears to be wet or slimy then there is definitely something wrong. If there is a musty scent it is also an indication of a mold infestation.

Mold can also be identified by torn or ripped air duct insulation, rips on vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem is serious, then you may even observe decaying wood or the metal is sagging.

The most popular type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is usually found on drywall and wood surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to allergies, irritated eyes and throat, as well as respiratory problems.

Mold in the air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breathe. Children and the elderly can experience more severe symptoms. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

It is recommended homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and guarantee that it doesn’t return.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to ensure that the air filters are cleaned regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. By following these steps, you can stop humidity and condensation which can promote mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities miserable, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a crucial aspect of combatting allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for the things that trigger your symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can get carried into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles can be dispersed throughout the house by leaks in ductwork.

The best way to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and help you breathe more comfortably.

A duct that is dirty could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and worsen allergies, especially if you have allergies already. The bacteria can be spread when the air passes through your ducts and into the vents inside your home.

If the ducts get dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home every time you turn on your air conditioning. This can cause respiratory problems and in some instances more serious illnesses.

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people carry allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites on their shoes and clothes. This is the most unpleasant time of year for these things and they’re more likely to be settling in areas where they won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the vents until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Air ducts that are dirty can cause many problems for homeowners, such as increased energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply an duct sealant that is pressurized to block air from getting into your home through leaky ductwork.