How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect debris, including dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are becoming more severe or if you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their durable and nearly impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are suitable for use in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the efficiency of energy used in a home. Leaks are most common where duct segments join, especially at joints. The ducts can become loose and split as time passes due to age, gravity and other factors. The sealing of these connections with mastic or metal tape can aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to hire an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

You can check for indications of leaks in your ducts by performing an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces, where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and need to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Be aware of any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these noises it is likely that there are leaks in the ducts.

Another sign of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the house. Because air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this may explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at the same temperature.

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

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for example, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous if you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

In humid and hot environments like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they ought to. This is a serious problem because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to get into homes and 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 used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for bathing, cooking and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house drier.

It is also important to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other problems. Professionals must clean and seal the ducts in the event of issues.

Leakage is a common issue in ductwork. This is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly, which can cause cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that can influence the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the lowest lifespan and are more susceptible to damage caused by pests and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and can resist insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys and other objects that block airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

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

A homeowner who suspects they are suffering from humidity or leakage should contact a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, since it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can complete the task.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates a climate that is damp and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores are then circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The visible signs of mold around the air vents are an indicator that you need to hire an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Black dust particles can be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy, there is definitely an issue. If there is a musty odor it is also an indication of a mold problem.

Mold can also be detected by torn or ripped air insulation in ducts, tears on the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem is serious you could observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

Stachybotrys is the most frequent mold found in air ducts. It can result in toxic mold. It can develop on drywall and wood surfaces, but also in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys can trigger allergies, irritation of the throat, nose and eyes, as well respiratory problems.

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

It is recommended homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the main reason. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are difficult to get rid of when they begin to grow. Besides, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all of the mold and prevented it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t return.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters regularly and to clean the ducts once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can keep humidity and condensation out, which can encourage mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities unpleasant and leave you with itchy eyes, swollen noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is an essential part of fighting allergies. Moreover, the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding place for the things that cause your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are all typical allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can be tracked in the Fridley home on clothing or shoes, and then spread throughout the home by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread 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 remove these particles and let you breathe more comfortably.

A duct that is dirty may 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 into the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can accumulate inside and be circulated throughout your home when you turn on your air conditioner. This can lead to respiratory problems and in certain cases, more serious illnesses.

Many people, especially during the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes through their clothing and shoes. These allergens are most likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of these areas, and if they’re not regularly cleaned, the allergens will stay in your air vents until you switch on your cooling or heating system.

Dirty air ducts are a major issue for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians apply a sealant that is pressurized to stop air from entering through leaky ductwork.