How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency since they are durable and nearly impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and fit into tight spaces, however they are prone to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy used in homes. Leaks typically occur when duct sections meet particularly at joints. These sections can loosen and break off over time due to age gravity, gravity and other elements. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to engage an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

Look for signs of duct leaks in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Look for areas of ducts that appear bent, crushed or kinked. This is a sign of the presence of a blockage that must be sealed. Check the seams and joints to determine if they’re warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks probably exist in that area.

Unexplained hot and cold spots could be a sign of a leaky duct. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain an even temperature.

In addition, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout the building even when the household activities haven’t changed. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens can trigger asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts could also spread toxic fumes into the living space. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This issue is particularly dangerous for elderly or young children who reside in the house. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should. This is a serious issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes which can cause 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 used in your home. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and decorations like aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should use a dehumidifier to make their home drier.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold or other problems. Professionals must clean and seal the ducts if there are any issues.

Leakage is another issue that can be found with ductwork. It is usually the result of joints that are not properly installed or seals that can lead to gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts come in a variety of materials and each one has its own characteristics that impact the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they have the least life span and are prone to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects like furniture, toys, and other objects. Blocked ducts can affect both the flow of air and the efficiency of the system.

The blocked ducts can also result in uneven heating and cooling and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings that are poorly constructed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects that they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should call an HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as this will affect how quickly and at what cost the professional can finish the job.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation inside the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores then get transported throughout the home through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms for household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents are an indication that you must employ an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be a sign of mold growth. If the area appears slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a significant problem. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

Other signs of a mold issue in your air ducts include tears or tears in the insulation, rips in the vent covers rodent droppings, the cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may notice decaying wood and sagging metal.

The most frequent kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It is usually found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys can cause irritation of the eyes, allergies, nose and throat and respiratory problems.

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

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to clean any large patches 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 get rid of when they begin to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from resurfacing. A professional can safely take away 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 changed frequently and that the ducts are cleaned once every few years. These steps can help to stop moisture and condensation which could encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

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

Allergy causes 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 the home by your HVAC system. These particles can be dispersed throughout the home by ductwork leaks.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective method to fight these allergies. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you breathe better and fight off allergies.

A duct that is dirty may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and aggravate your allergies, particularly when you already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted when air moves through your ducts and the vents in your home.

When ducts become filthy, bacteria may build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and in some instances, more serious illnesses.

In the spring and early summer, many people bring in allergens like mold, pollen and dust mites onto their shoes and clothes. These allergens are most likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they are 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 be an issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will employ an duct sealant that is pressurized to prevent air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.