How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew, mold growth, and other debris. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If your allergies are becoming worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it might be time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However, they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and they can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent when duct segments connect particularly at joints. These sections can separate and become loose over time as a result of gravity and age, among other things. The sealing of these connections with metal tape or mastic can aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

Find indications of leaks in the ducts in your crawlspace or attic where the ductwork is exposed. Look for areas of ducts that are kinked, crushed or twisted. This indicates a blockage which needs to be sealed. Examine whether the joints or seams are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these noises it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots are another sign of a leaking duct. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this issue may be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to keep at a consistent temperature.

Even when the household activities are not affected the ductwork’s gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout a structure. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members due to the circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes as well as dust into the living space. Leaking ductwork, for example, can expose your family to harmful fumes in the event that you store pesticides and paint thinners in your basement. This is particularly dangerous for elderly or children in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect these dangerous gasses and alert you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should. This is a major issue because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several steps homeowners can take to reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

First, limit the amount of water you use in your home. This includes reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and decorations like aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the home drier.

It is also crucial to regularly check the ductwork for signs of mold and other issues. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts if there are any problems.

Leakage is another issue that can be found when it comes to ductwork. This is typically because of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which could result in cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed, and using high-quality materials such as metal.

Air ducts can be found in various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that can influence the way they perform. The least expensive air ducts, which are made of polyester, have the shortest lifespan and are more vulnerable to damage by pests and elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects like furniture, toys, and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the flow of air and the efficiency of the system.

Blocked ducts can also result in uneven cooling and heating, which can be an issue in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects that they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easily accessible, as this will affect how quickly and at what cost the professional can complete the task.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout the home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The presence of mold around the vents is a clear indication that you should employ a professional HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be a sign that mold is growing. If the area looks wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a significant issue. A musty odor is another sign of mold.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts are ripped or torn insulation, rips in the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the mold problem is severe, you may observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

The most frequent type of mold 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 rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritated eyes nose and throat, and respiratory issues.

The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Children and the elderly can experience more severe symptoms. Air ducts can also cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

It is advised that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the safety concerns involved. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to eliminate after they have begun to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and ensure that it does not return.

The best way to prevent mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed frequently and that the ducts are cleaned every couple of years. These steps will help stop moisture and condensation, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, dry eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is a crucial aspect of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley home through shoes or clothing, and then spread throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can let these particles pass through, and they’ll be circulated throughout the home.

The best method to fight these allergens is with an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and help you breathe better.

A dirty air duct may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergy symptoms. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that flows through your ducts to the vents of your home.

When ducts are filthy, bacteria may build up inside and spread throughout your home when you turn on the air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and can lead to more serious illnesses in some cases.

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people are exposed to allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites on their shoes and clothes. These allergens are more likely to be deposited in areas which won’t be re-infested until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are among these areas, and if they’re not regularly cleaned the allergens can remain in the air vents until you turn on your cooling or heating system.

Air ducts that are dirty can cause many issues for homeowners, including higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians will employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through ductwork that is leaky.