How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, growth, and other debris. These contaminants are then dispersed throughout the house. If you notice that your allergies are worsening or if you smell a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts promote energy efficiency because they are sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However they are prone to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can decrease the efficiency of energy used in a home. Leaks are most prevalent where duct segments join in particular at joints. The ducts can become loose and separate over time due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to hire an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can identify signs of duct leaks by performing an inspection of your basement, attic, and crawlspaces, where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas of ducts that appear bent, crushed or kinked. This could indicate a blockage which needs to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct could be present in that area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the house. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this could explain why those spaces are difficult to keep at an even temperature.

Gaps in ductwork can also distribute dust throughout the house even if household activities haven’t changed. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can trigger asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also release toxic fumes into the living area. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This problem is especially dangerous if you have children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect the presence of these gases and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates such as Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is because the ducts that sweat are allowing excessive humidity into homes. This can cause many problems, including mold growth and poor indoor 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 limit water use in the home as much as possible. This means reducing the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and even decorations such as aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must make use of a dehumidifier to keep their homes drier.

It’s also important to periodically examine the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. Professionals must clean and seal the ducts if there are any issues.

Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which can cause cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials such as metal.

Air ducts are available in different materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that determine how well they perform. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a bit more expensive, but they last longer and can resist insects.

Another issue with ducts is they may be blocked by toys, furniture, and other objects, which restricts airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

The blocked ducts can also result in uneven heating and cooling and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings that are poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork, and make recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and how much the professional can finish the task.

Mold

The warm and humid temperatures create mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid environment where the spores of mold thrive. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout the house which causes allergic reactions in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents are a good indicator that you should hire an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of the growth of mold. If the area looks slimy or wet, it’s a clear sign that there is a major issue. If there is a musty odor, this is also an indication of a mold infestation.

Other signs of a mold issue in your air ducts include ripped or torn insulation, rips in the vent covers, rodent droppings and the cockroach shells. If the mold issue is serious, you could notice decaying wood and sagging metal.

The most common kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is usually found on wood and drywall surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to allergies, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat and respiratory problems.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Symptoms can be more severe in children and older. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. The safety concerns involved are the main reason. Mold spores can spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they’ve begun to grow. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.

The best way to prevent mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. Following these steps will help stop humidity and condensation which can trigger mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes and a general sense of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts are an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger allergy symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley house on shoes or clothing and then sprayed throughout the home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork could allow these particles to sneak through and be circulated throughout the home.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to combat these allergies. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you breathe more easily and combat your allergies.

A clogged air duct could also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergies, especially those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can transmitted when air moves through your ducts and the vents in your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home whenever you turn on your air conditioner. This can lead to respiratory issues and can lead to more serious illnesses in certain instances.

Many people, especially during the spring and early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. These allergens are likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed again until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they are not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the ducts until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Clean air ducts can be a major problem for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will apply the duct sealant with a pressurized system to block air from getting into your home through ductwork that is leaky.