How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect particles, including dust, mildew and mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency because they are durable and nearly impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and fit into tight spaces, but they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit air conditioning to escape from the system, and can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent where duct segments join, especially at joints. These sections may split and loosen in time because of gravity, age and other factors. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can assist in preventing the loss of air however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.

Find indications of leaks in the ducts in your crawlspace or attic where the ductwork is exposed. Find areas where ducts are damaged or kinked which indicates blockage and need to be sealed. Feel along the joints and seams to see if they’re warm. Also pay attention to any whistling noises when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks could be present in that area.

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

In addition, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout the house even when the household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members due to the circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts may also release toxic fumes into the living area. 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 children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect the presence of these gases and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot environments like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they should. This is a serious problem because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture into homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are many ways homeowners can reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

First, limit the amount of water you use in your home. This means reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and decorations like aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should utilize a dehumidifier in order to make their home drier.

It is also crucial to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. This is usually due to joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly which can cause cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts can be found in various materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a bit more expensive, but they last longer and can be resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects such as furniture, toys, and other objects. A blocked duct can affect airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

A blocked duct can also lead to uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is an issue for older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a leakage or humidity issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is simple to access, since this can affect how quickly the professional can arrive at work and the overall cost of the project.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then distributed by your HVAC system throughout the home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

Visual signs of mold around air vents is an indicator that you need to engage an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Black dust particles can be an indication that mold is growing. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it’s a clear sign that there is a significant issue. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers rodent droppings, cockroach shells. If the issue is severe you could see rotting wood and sliding metal.

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

The symptoms of mold that can be found in the air ducts are wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The symptoms can be more than in children and the elderly. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue and fatigue.

It is advised that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the safety concerns involved. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to eliminate once they start growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and stop it from returning. A professional can safely remove the mold from the air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to ensure that the air filters are cleaned frequently and that the ducts are cleaned once every few years. Following these steps will help prevent condensation and humidity which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can halt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, dry eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a vital part of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked in the Fridley home on footwear or clothing, and then spread throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to sneak through and then be recirculated all over the house.

The best way to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you breathe better and fight off allergies.

A clogged air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make your sick and worsen your allergy symptoms. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts into your home’s vents.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can accumulate within them and circulate throughout your home every time you turn on the air conditioner. This can cause respiratory problems and could result in more serious illness 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 through their clothing and shoes. These allergens are likely to be deposited in areas which won’t be re-infested 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 switched on.

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