How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other waste. These pollutants are then dispersed throughout the house. If your allergies are becoming worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it could be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit air conditioning to escape from the system, and they can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are commonplace at the point where duct segments meet in particular at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections can keep air from leaking. However, it is best to hire a professional HVAC technician to do extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.

Find indications of leaks in the ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Check the joints and seams to determine if they’re warm. Pay attention to whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct could be present in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots are another sign of a leaking air duct. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.

Gaps in ductwork can also distribute dust throughout the building even when the household activities haven’t changed. They can cause allergies and asthma symptoms in family members due to the circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens in living spaces.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts could also let toxic fumes enter the living space. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into your living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This is especially dangerous for elderly or young children who reside in the home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect the presence of these gases and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates such as Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a serious problem, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are a variety of things homeowners can do to decrease humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.

The first step is to reduce the amount of water used in your home as much as is possible. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing, and for decorations such as aquariums. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house drier.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold and other issues. If there are problems the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Leakage is a common issue with ductwork. It is usually the result of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which could lead to gaps and cracks. The best way to prevent this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed, and using high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts can be found in different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that can influence the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the least time to live and are more prone to damage by pests and elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and can resist insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects such as furniture, toys, and other objects. Blocked ducts can affect both the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

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

If a homeowner suspects that they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork, and make recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easy to access, as this can affect how quickly the pro can get to work and the overall cost of the project.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts could happen when two things come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores then get circulated by your HVAC system throughout your home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The visible signs of mold around the air vents are a good indicator that you should engage an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it is a clear indication that there is a serious issue. A musty odor is another sign of mold.

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 it could be that you observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

Stachybotrys is the most prevalent mold found in air ducts. The mold can cause toxic mold. It is typically found on wood and drywall surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys can cause allergies, irritation of the throat, nose, and eyes, as well respiratory issues.

Mold in air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may 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 clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are difficult to get rid of when they begin to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and stop it from recurring. A professional can safely take away the mold from air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters on a regular basis and to clean the ducts every few years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can halt your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, swollen eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts are a breeding ground for things that trigger your allergic symptoms.

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

The best way to combat the allergens that cause you to suffer is thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you breathe more easily and ward off your allergies.

A clogged air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergy symptoms. The bacteria can spread when air moves through your ducts and the vents inside your home.

If the ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up in them and be circulated throughout your home when the air conditioner is turned on. This can cause respiratory problems and can result in more serious illness in some cases.

Many people, especially during the spring and the early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are likely to settle into places which won’t be re-infested until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens could remain in the vents until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Clean air ducts can cause numerous problems for homeowners, including more expensive energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that is leaky.