How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency since they are robust and almost rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and can be squeezed into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy in a home. Leaks are most common at the point where duct segments meet, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time because of gravity and age, among other things. Sealing these connections will help to stop air leakage. However, it is recommended to hire an expert HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

You can check for indications of leaks in ducts by performing a visual inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces, where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas of ducts which are bent, crushed, or twisted. This could indicate an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Feel along the seams and joints to determine if they’re warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system is running. If you can hear these sounds, there are probably duct leaks in that area.

Another sign of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots in the home. This is because air leaks can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

The ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout the house, even when household activities haven’t changed. They can cause allergies and asthma symptoms in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to fumes. This is particularly dangerous for elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

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

First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home drier.

It’s also important to periodically check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Leakage is another issue that can be found in ductwork. It is usually the result of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which can lead to gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using premium metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts are available in a variety of materials, and each one has its own characteristics that impact how well they perform. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they are the most brittle and are prone to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and can resist insects.

Another issue with ducts is they are often blocked by toys, furniture and other items, which restricts airflow. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

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

If a homeowner suspects they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The professional will assess the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork is easily accessible, since this will affect how quickly and at what cost the expert can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can be caused by two things coming together: moisture and warm temperatures. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a moist environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The presence of mold around vents is a clear indication to hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area looks wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a serious problem. If there is a musty smell it is also an indication of a mold problem.

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

Stachybotrys is the most prevalent mold that is found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It is typically found on wood and drywall surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation to the eyes and throat, as well as 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. Air ducts can also trigger nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts, however it is not recommended to try to clean any large patches of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason for this. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and keep it from returning. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

The best way to prevent mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. Following these steps will help prevent condensation and humidity, which can encourage mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can halt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to combat allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for things that trigger allergy symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites mold spores, and pet dander are the most common allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley house on footwear or clothing, and then spread throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread throughout the house by ductwork leaks.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the best way to combat these allergies. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and let you breathe more easily.

A dirty air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and aggravate your allergy symptoms, especially those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread by the air that flows through your ducts into the vents of your home.

When ducts become filthy, bacteria may build up inside and spread throughout your home when you turn on your air conditioning. This can cause respiratory issues and, in certain cases more serious ailments.

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

Dirty air ducts are an issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy costs, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians will employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.