How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew, growth, and other debris. These pollutants are then dispersed throughout the house. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or you notice a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and squeeze into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks are typically found where duct segments meet particularly at joints. These sections may split and loosen in time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. The sealing of these connections with metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to engage an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

Look for signs of duct leaks in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed which indicates obstruction and should be sealed. Verify if the seams or joints are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots could be a sign of a leaky pipe. This is due to air leaks that can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

Even if the activities of the household are unchanged, ductwork 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 may also let toxic fumes enter the living space. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for example, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into your 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 the presence of these gases and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

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

The first step is to limit water use in the home as much as possible. This includes reducing the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and for decorations such as aquariums. In addition homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home more dry.

It is also important to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts in the event of issues.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of improperly installed joints or seals that can result in cracks and gaps. This is prevented by using high-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been correctly installed.

Air ducts are available in various materials. Each type has its own characteristics that determine the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a bit more expensive but they last longer and be resistant to pests.

Airflow may be limited by objects such as furniture, toys and other objects. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow as well as the energy efficiency of your system.

A blocked duct can also lead to uneven cooling and heating, which can be a significant issue in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner believes they have a humidity or leakage issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts could occur when two factors come together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is brought on by condensation in the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and conducive to mold growth. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around the air vents are an indication that you should engage an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears slimy or wet, it’s a clear sign that there is a significant problem. If there is a musty scent that is an indication of a mold infestation.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts include damaged or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the mold issue is serious, you could observe decaying wood or sagging 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 the wood and drywall surfaces and also in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation of the eyes, allergies nose and throat, and respiratory problems.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may suffer more severe symptoms. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to remove large areas of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they’ve begun to grow. In addition, there is no guarantee that the homeowner has successfully removed all the mold and prevented it from returning. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t recur.

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

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities unpleasant and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is an essential part of combatting 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 carried into your Fridley home via shoes or clothing and then dispersed throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house due to leaks in the ductwork.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles, helping you to breathe more comfortably and fight off allergies.

A duct that is dirty may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts into your home’s vents.

If the ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up inside them and then be circulated throughout your home when the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and could lead to more serious illnesses in certain instances.

During the spring and early summer, many people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their shoes and clothes. This is the worst time of year for these types of substances and they’re more likely to be settling in areas that aren’t disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the vents until your cooling and heating system is switched on.

Dirty air ducts pose an issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will employ a pressurized duct sealant to prevent air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.