How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other waste. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it might be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are suitable for use in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the efficiency of energy in a home. Leaks are typically found at the point where duct segments join and are most often at joints. These sections can separate and become loose over time because of gravity and age, among other things. Sealing these connections with mastic or metal tape can aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to hire an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can identify signs of duct leaks by performing a visual inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas of ducts that are bent, crushed, or twisted. This could indicate an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Examine the seams and joints to see if they’re warm. Be aware of any whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaky pipe. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain the same temperature.

Gaps in ductwork can also distribute dust throughout the house, even when household activities haven’t changed. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also release toxic fumes into the living space. Leaking ductwork, for example can expose your family to fumes in the event that you store pesticides and paint thinners in your basement. This risk is particularly threatening for children or elderly people living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect the harmful gases and alert you to their presence in the air.

High Humidity

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

First, reduce the amount of water you use in your home. This means reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and for decorations such as aquariums. In addition homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home drier.

It is also crucial to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold or other problems. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by professionals.

Leakage is another issue that can be found in ductwork. This is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly that can lead to gaps and cracks. This can be avoided by using premium metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections are correctly installed.

Air ducts can be found in various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that can influence the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts, which are made of polyester, have the lowest life expectancy and are more vulnerable to damage by insects and elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a little more expensive however they last longer and can repel insects.

Another issue with ducts is they can become blocked by toys, furniture and other items that block airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

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

A homeowner who suspects that they have a problem with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s crucial 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 could be caused by two things coming together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation inside the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout your home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

The presence of mold around vents is a clear indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears wet or slimy, there is definitely something wrong. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers, rodent droppings and the cockroach shells. If the issue is severe it could be that you observe decaying wood or the metal is sagging.

The most frequent type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is usually found on drywall and wood surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to irritation of the eyes, allergies nose and throat, and respiratory issues.

The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing, and breath shortness. Children and the elderly can experience more severe symptoms. Air ducts that are contaminated with mold can cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.

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. This is due to the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from returning. A professional can safely take away the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t return.

The best way to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can prevent condensation and humidity, which can encourage mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities difficult, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergy symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley house on shoes or clothing and then dispersed throughout the home by your HVAC system. These particles can be dispersed throughout the house by leaks in ductwork.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more comfortably.

A clogged air duct may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and aggravate your allergies, especially those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts to your home’s vents.

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

Many people, especially during the spring and early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes through their clothes and shoes. These allergens are more likely to settle into places that won’t be disturbed again until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are among these areas, and if they’re not cleaned regularly, the allergens will stay in your air vents until you turn on your heating or cooling system.

Air ducts that are dirty can cause numerous problems for homeowners, including more expensive energy bills 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 use the duct sealant with a pressurized system to block air from entering your home through leaky ductwork.