How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate debris, including dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you smell a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are affordable. However they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, and this can reduce the efficiency of energy used in homes. Leaks usually occur at the point where duct segments join particularly at joints. These sections may loosen and separate over time due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the 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. Check for areas of ducts that appear bent, crushed or kinked. This is a sign of a blockage which needs to be sealed. Feel along the seams and joints to determine if they’re hot. Pay attention to whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct are likely to be present in the area.

Unexplained hot and cold spots are another sign of a leaking pipe. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this may be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to keep at the same temperature.

In addition, ductwork gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout the building even when the household activities haven’t changed. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members by circulating dust mites, mold spores and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.

Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes as well as dust into the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This problem is particularly hazardous for elderly or young children who reside in the house. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect dangerous gases and alert you to their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida air conditioning ducts are more prone to sweat than they should be. This is a serious issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to get into homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

First, reduce the amount of water used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also utilize a dehumidifier in order to make their home drier.

It is also essential 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 problems.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. This is usually caused by joint seals that are not properly installed that can lead to cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are available in various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that determine the performance of these ducts. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the shortest time to live and are more prone to damage by insects and elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a little more expensive however they last longer and can be resistant to insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they can become blocked by toys, furniture and other items that block airflow. A blocked duct can affect airflow as well as the energy efficiency of your system.

The blocked ducts can also result in uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is an issue for older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and how much 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 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 distributed by your HVAC system throughout the home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

Mold around the vents is an indication to hire a professional HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black can be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy, then there is a problem. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

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

The most common kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys which can cause toxic mold. It is typically found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between the rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation to the nose, throat, and eyes, and respiratory problems.

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

It is recommended homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. This is due to 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. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from recurring. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and guarantee that it doesn’t return.

To avoid mold growth in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters regularly and to clean the ducts every few years. These steps will help keep moisture and condensation out which could encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities miserable and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts are an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergic symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked the Fridley home on shoes or clothing, and then spread throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can allow these particles to pass through and be circulated throughout the house.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the best method to fight these allergies. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you breathe more easily and combat your allergies.

A duct that is dirty could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergy symptoms. These bacteria are spread by the air that flows through your ducts and into your home’s vents.

If the ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up inside them and then be circulated around your entire home when the air conditioner is turned on. This can cause respiratory problems and in some cases more serious ailments.

Many people, especially during the spring and early summer months are able to bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed again until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens could remain in the ducts 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. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will apply the duct sealant with a pressurized system to stop air from entering your home through leaky ductwork.