How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate debris, including dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then dispersed throughout the house. If your allergies are getting worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it may be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their durable and nearly rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and fit into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit conditioned air to escape the system. They can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are commonplace when duct segments connect, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time as a result of gravity and age, among other things. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in ducts by performing an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas where ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Verify whether the joints or seams are warm. Be aware of any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks could be present in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots are another indication of a leaking pipe. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this issue may explain why those spaces are difficult to maintain an even temperature.

Even when the household activities remain the same the ductwork’s gaps can spread dust throughout a structure. Dust mould spores, mites and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also spread toxic fumes into the living space. Leaking ductwork, for example could expose your family to harmful fumes in the event that you store pesticides and paint thinners in your basement. This is especially dangerous when elderly or children reside in the house. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

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

The first step is to reduce the use of water in the home as much as is possible. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In addition homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house more dry.

It is also essential to regularly inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals that can cause cracks and gaps. This is prevented by using high-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections have been correctly installed.

Air ducts are available in various materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the shortest time to live and are more prone to being damaged by pests and elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a little more expensive but they last longer and can be resistant to insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they are often blocked by furniture, toys, and other objects which can impede airflow. Blocked ducts can affect both the airflow and efficiency of the system.

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

If a homeowner suspects that they have a humidity or leakage issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and at what cost the professional can finish the task.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is damp and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores then get circulated throughout the house by your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms for household members.

The visible signs of mold around air vents are an indicator that you must engage an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is growing. If the area appears to be slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a major problem. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

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

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

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

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts, but it is not recommended to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason for this. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are difficult to eliminate once they start growing. There is also no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all the mold and stopped it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t recur.

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

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities that leave you with itchy, swollen eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a crucial aspect of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a perfect breeding ground for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are the most common allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can get transported into your Fridley home on shoes or clothing and then scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can let these particles pass through, and they’ll be circulated all over the house.

The best method to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can eliminate these particles, allowing you breathe better and combat your allergies.

A dirty air duct can also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and trigger allergies, especially those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that passes through your ducts and into the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty bacteria can grow within them, and later be circulated throughout your home once the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and, in certain cases, more serious illnesses.

In the spring and early summer months, many people carry allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are more likely to settle into places that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they’re 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 issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy costs, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.