How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other waste. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If your allergies are becoming worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it might be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency since they are robust and almost completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are suitable for use in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and can drastically reduce a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are commonplace at the point where duct segments meet particularly at joints. The ducts can split and become loose in time because of gravity, age and other factors. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic can aid in preventing air loss however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked, which indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Examine the seams and joints to determine if they’re hot. Be aware of any whistling sounds when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these noises, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Unexplained hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaky 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 keep at a consistent temperature.

The ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout the house, even when household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes and dust into the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous for children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In humid and hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should be. This is a problem since the ducts that sweat allow excessive humidity into homes, which can cause many issues, including the growth of mold and poor indoor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to decrease humidity and keep ductwork dry.

First, reduce the amount of water you use in your home. This includes cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and even decorations such as aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should use a dehumidifier to make their home dryer.

It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. Professionals should clean and seal ducts when they notice any issues.

Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. This is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly that can lead to cracks and gaps. This can be prevented by using high-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections are correctly installed.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they are the most brittle and are susceptible to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded 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.

Blocked ducts may also cause uneven cooling and heating in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner believes they have a humidity or leakage problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork be 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 environment in which the mold spores thrive. The spores are then distributed through your HVAC system throughout the house which causes allergic reactions in household members.

The presence of mold around the vents is a good indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it is a clear indication that there is a significant issue. 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, cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is serious, you could notice decaying wood and sagging metal.

Stachybotrys is the most prevalent mold found in air ducts. The mold can cause 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 can trigger irritation to the nose, throat, and eyes, as well as respiratory issues.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more severe in children and the older. The air ducts in the air can also cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

It is suggested that homeowners do not attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason for this. Mold spores can spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to eliminate after they have begun to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

To stop the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters frequently and to clean the ducts once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can stop humidity and condensation which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can halt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, dry eyes and a general sense of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is an essential part of battling allergies, and the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a perfect breeding ground for the things that trigger your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites mold spores, and pet dander are the most common allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley house on clothing or shoes and then sprayed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to sneak through and be circulated throughout the house.

The best method to fight these allergens is with an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and help you breathe better.

A clogged air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergies, especially if you have allergies already. The bacteria can be transmitted when air passes through your ducts and into the vents in your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home whenever you turn on your air conditioner. This can cause respiratory issues and in some instances 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 shoes and clothing. These allergens are more likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent illustration. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the vents until your cooling and heating system is turned on.

Clean air ducts can be a major issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy costs, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will use a pressurized duct sealant to block air from getting into your home through ductwork that is leaky.