How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their sturdy and virtually completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and fit into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape and this can reduce the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks usually occur at the point where duct segments join and are most often at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and insulate the ducts.

Look for signs of duct leaks in your attic or crawlspace where ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Examine the seams and joints to determine if they’re hot. Be aware of any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these noises it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots in the home. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.

In addition, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout the building even when the household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.

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 fumes. This problem is particularly hazardous for elderly or young children who reside in the home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that will detect dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a problem because the ducts that sweat allow excessive moisture into homes, which could cause a variety of issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

The first step is to reduce the use of water in the home as much as you can. Reduce the amount of water you use to cook, bathe and aquariums. In addition, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to make the house more dry.

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

Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. Usually, this happens because of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which can result in cracks and gaps. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts are made of a variety of materials, and each one has its own characteristics that can affect how well they perform. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the lowest life expectancy and are more susceptible to being damaged by insects and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they can become blocked by toys, furniture and other items which can impede airflow. A blocked duct can affect airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

The blocked ducts can also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects that they have a humidity or leakage problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is simple to access, since this can affect how quickly the professional can arrive at work and also the total cost of the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates an environment that is humid and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home which causes allergic reactions in household members.

The visible signs of mold around air vents is an indicator that you should employ an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often a sign of mold growth. If the area appears slimy or wet, it’s a clear sign that there is a major problem. If there is a musty smell it is also an indication of a mold infestation.

Mold can also be detected by torn or damaged air insulation for ducts, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may observe decaying wood or falling metal.

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

The signs of mold in the air ducts are wheezing, coughing and breath shortness. Symptoms can be more severe in children and the older. Air ducts can also trigger nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

It is advised homeowners not to attempt to remove 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 eliminate when they begin to grow. Besides, there is no guarantee that the homeowner has successfully removed all the mold and prevented it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and make sure that it does not return.

To prevent the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure to change the air filters on a regular basis and clean the ducts once every few years. By following these steps, you can prevent condensation and humidity which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities difficult and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for the things that trigger your symptoms.

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

The best way to combat these allergens is to do thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and let you breathe more comfortably.

A duct that is dirty could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and trigger allergies, especially when you already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that passes through your ducts to the vents of your home.

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

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

Clean air ducts can cause many issues for homeowners, including increased energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to prevent air from getting through ductwork that is leaky.