How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect particles, including dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. 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 since they are robust and almost rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are suitable for use in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and can drastically reduce a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most common when duct segments connect particularly at joints. These sections may loosen and separate over time due to age gravity, gravity, and other causes. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to engage an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in ducts by conducting a visual inspection in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas of ducts that are kinked, crushed or twisted. This indicates an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Examine the seams and joints to determine if they’re warm. Pay attention to whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

Another indication of a leaking duct is unexplained hot or cold spots in the home. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this could explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at a consistent temperature.

In addition, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout the house, even when household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts could also release toxic fumes into the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous if you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect the presence of these gases and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

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

First, limit the amount of water used in your home. This includes cutting down on the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and for decorations such as aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must use a dehumidifier to make their homes drier.

It is also crucial to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold or other problems. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Leakage is another common problem in ductwork. It is usually the result of joints that have been installed incorrectly 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 correctly installed.

Air ducts come in a variety of materials, and each one has its own characteristics that can affect the way they function. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

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

A blocked duct can also cause uneven heating and cooling and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings that are poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects that they have a humidity or leakage issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s important that the ductwork is easy to access, since this could affect the speed at which the professional can arrive at work and the overall cost of the project.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores are then circulated throughout the house by your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms in household members.

The presence of mold around the vents is a clear indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black can be a sign that mold is growing. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it is a clear indication that there is a serious issue. If there is a musty odor that is an indication of a mold infestation.

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

Stachybotrys is the most prevalent mold found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It is commonly found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation to the eyes nose and throat, and respiratory problems.

Symptoms of mold in the air ducts are coughing, wheezing and breath shortness. Children and the elderly may have more severe symptoms. Air ducts can also trigger nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns are the reason. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove after they have begun to grow. In addition, there is no guarantee that the homeowner has successfully removed all of the mold and stopped it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and ensure that it does not 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 few years. By following these steps, you can stop humidity and condensation which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, dry eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a crucial aspect of combatting allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are all common allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can get carried into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork could allow these particles to sneak through and be circulated all over the house.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is a great way to combat these allergies. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you to breathe more comfortably and fight off allergies.

A dirty air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, especially if you have allergies already. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that passes through your ducts to your home’s vents.

If the ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up in them and be circulated around your entire home, especially when the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and even lead to more serious illnesses in certain cases.

Many people, particularly in the spring and the early summer months are able to bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes on their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of year for these kinds of things and they’re more likely to settle in areas that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are among those areas. If they’re not regularly cleaned, the allergens will stay in your air ducts until you switch on your cooling or heating system.

Dirty air ducts are an issue for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians apply a sealant that is pressurized to block air from entering through leaky ductwork.