How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, growth, and other particles. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are becoming more severe or if you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency because they are robust and almost impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and fit into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy used in a home. Leaks are most common at the point where duct segments meet particularly at joints. These sections can separate and become loose over 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 is recommended to hire an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

Check for indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Find areas where ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Examine whether the joints or seams are warm. Be aware of any whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks could be present in that area.

Unexplained hot and cold spots could be a sign of a leaking pipe. This is due to air leaks that could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

The ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout the building even when the household activities aren’t changing. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members due to the circulating dust mites, mold spores and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes and dust into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example, can expose your family to harmful fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This issue is particularly dangerous for elderly or young children who live in the home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is because the ducts that sweat are allowing excessive moisture into homes, which can cause many issues, including the growth of mold and poor indoor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to reduce humidity and keep ductwork dry.

The first step is to limit water use in the home as much as possible. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home more dry.

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

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. It is usually caused by improperly installed seals or joints which can cause gaps and cracks. This can be avoided by using high-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections are properly installed.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that can influence the performance of these ducts. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the least time to live and are more susceptible to damage caused by pests and elements. Ducts made of aluminum are slightly more expensive but they last longer and can repel insects.

Another issue with ducts is that they may be blocked by toys, furniture and other items that block airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow and energy efficiency of your system.

A blocked duct can also result in uneven heating and cooling in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should contact a HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork is accessible to access, since this could affect the speed at which the professional can arrive at work and also the total cost of the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can be caused by two things coming together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a moist environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms for household members.

Visual signs of mold around the air vents are an indication that you should employ an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of growth of mold. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it is a clear indication that there is a serious problem. If there is a musty scent, this is also an indication of a mold infestation.

It is also possible to detect mold by torn or damaged air duct insulation, rips on vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the mold issue is serious, you could observe decaying wood or sagging metal.

The most common type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is typically found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between the rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys can cause irritation of the eyes, allergies and throat, as well as respiratory issues.

Mold in the air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more than in children and the older. The air ducts in the air can also cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the safety issues involved. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and make sure that it does not recur.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters regularly and to clean the ducts once every couple of years. These steps will help prevent condensation and moisture which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities that leave you with itchy, runny eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of combatting allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the things that cause your symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked the Fridley home on clothing or shoes and then dispersed throughout the home by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread throughout the house due to ductwork leaks.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the best method to fight these allergies. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you to breathe more comfortably and combat your allergies.

A clogged air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and aggravate your allergies, particularly those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread by the air that passes through your ducts and into the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up within them, and later be circulated around your entire home when the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and even lead to more serious illnesses in certain instances.

Many people, especially during the spring and the early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. These allergens are likely to settle into places that won’t be disturbed again until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens could 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 lead to higher energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will employ an duct sealant that is pressurized to prevent air from getting into your home through leaky ductwork.