How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate particles, including dust, mildew and even mold. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it may be time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and can be squeezed into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit conditioned air to escape the system. They can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur at the point where duct segments join particularly at joints. The ducts can become loose and separate over time due to age, gravity and other factors. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

Look for indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Find areas of ducts which are bent, crushed, or twisted. This is a sign of an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds you could have leaks in the ducts.

Another common sign of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots in the house. This is due to air leaks that could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

Even when the household activities are unchanged the ductwork’s gaps can spread dust throughout a building. They can cause allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also let toxic fumes enter the living area. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into your living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This risk is particularly threatening if you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes and warn you of 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 to enter homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to decrease humidity and keep ductwork dry.

First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. This means cutting down on the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and for decorations such as aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should utilize a dehumidifier in order to make their home drier.

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

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. This is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly that can lead to cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are available in different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that determine the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the shortest life expectancy and are more susceptible to damage caused by insects and elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a bit more expensive however they last longer and can resist insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they can become blocked by furniture, toys and other objects which can impede airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

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

A homeowner who suspects they have a problem with leakage or humidity should contact an HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, since it will impact the speed and how much the expert can complete the task.

Mold

Moisture and warm temperatures can combine to cause mold in air conditioning ducts. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid atmosphere in which the mold spores thrive. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout the house and cause allergic reactions among household members.

The presence of mold around vents is a good indication that you should hire a professional HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears damp or slimy then there is clearly a problem. A musty odor is another sign of mold.

Mold can also be detected by ripped or torn air duct insulation, rips on vent covers rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the issue is severe you could see rotting wood and the metal is sagging.

The most common kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It can be found on the wood and drywall surfaces, but also in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation of the eyes, allergies and throat, as well as respiratory issues.

The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing and breath shortness. The symptoms may be more severe in children and older. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue and fatigue.

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason for this. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they have started growing. In addition, there is no guarantee that the home owner 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 return.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters on a regular basis and clean the ducts at least once every couple of years. These steps can help to prevent condensation and moisture which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

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

Pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander are the most common allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can be tracked into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread throughout the house due to leaks in the ductwork.

The best way to combat these allergens is to do a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you breathe more easily and combat your allergies.

A clogged air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, particularly those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts into your home’s vents.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up within them and circulate throughout your home when you turn on your air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and even lead to more serious illnesses in certain instances.

During the spring and early summer, many people are exposed to allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites onto their shoes and clothing. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these types of substances and they’re likely to be settling in areas that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is switched on.

Dirty air ducts can create numerous problems for homeowners, including increased energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians will use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.