How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other particles. These pollutants are then distributed throughout the house. If your allergies are getting worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it may be time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and fit into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape and this can decrease the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are most common at the point where duct segments meet, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose in time because of gravity, age and other factors. The sealing of these connections with metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to hire an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.

You can look for indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Examine if the seams or joints are warm. Also pay attention to any whistling noises when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks probably exist in that area.

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

Even when household activities are not affected the ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout a structure. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members by circulating dust mites, mold spores and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes as well as dust into 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 loved ones to fumes. This issue is particularly dangerous if children or elderly adults reside in the home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a problem because the ducts that sweat are allowing excessive humidity into homes. This can cause numerous issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to reduce humidity and keep ductwork dry.

First, reduce the amount of water used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use to cook, bathe and aquariums. Additionally, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home drier.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold and other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

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

Air ducts are made of a variety of materials, and each has distinct characteristics that can affect how well they function. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are slightly more expensive but they last longer and can resist insects.

Airflow may be limited by objects like furniture, toys and other objects. 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 that they are suffering from leakage or humidity should call an HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s important that the ductwork is easy to access, as this will affect the speed with which the technician can get to work and the overall cost of the task.

Mold

The warm and humid temperatures create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is damp and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout the house which causes allergic reactions in household members.

The presence of mold around the vents is an indication to hire a professional HVAC for cleaning your AC. Black dust particles are often a sign of mold growth. If the area looks slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a major 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 the cockroach shells. If the problem is serious you could see rotting wood and the metal is sagging.

Stachybotrys is the most common mold that is found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It can develop on the wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys can cause allergies, irritation of the throat, nose, and eyes, and respiratory problems.

Symptoms of mold in air ducts include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may suffer more severe symptoms. The air ducts in the air can cause headaches, fatigue and nausea.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts, however it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. This is due to the safety issues involved. Mold spores spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they’ve begun to grow. In addition, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all of the mold and stopped it from returning. A professional can safely take away the mold from air ducts, and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters regularly and clean the ducts at least once every few years. These steps will stop moisture and condensation which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, runny eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a vital part of combatting allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the things that trigger your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are all typical allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley house on footwear or clothing and then sprayed throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house by leaks in ductwork.

The best way to fight these allergens is with a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles and help you breathe better.

A duct that is dirty could also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergy symptoms, especially those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can spread when air flows through your ducts and into the vents in your home.

If the ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up inside them and then be circulated throughout your home, especially when the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and can result in more serious illness in certain cases.

Many people, especially in the spring and early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes through their shoes and clothing. This is the worst time of year for these kinds of things, and they’re likely to settle in places that aren’t disturbed until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens could remain in the ducts until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Dirty air ducts are a major problem for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply an duct sealant that is pressurized to prevent air from getting into your home through leaky ductwork.