How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, growth, and other particles. The contaminants are then spread throughout the house. If you notice that your allergies are worsening or if you smell a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their robust and almost rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and fit into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow conditioned air to escape the system, and can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are typically found where duct segments meet particularly at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to hire an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

Look for indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Find areas of ducts that are kinked, crushed or twisted. This could indicate the presence of a blockage that must be sealed. Examine whether the joints or seams are warm. Be aware of any whistling noises when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Another sign of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots throughout the home. This is due to air leaks that could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

Even if the activities of the household remain the same, ductwork gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout a structure. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also release toxic fumes into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example can expose your family to fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This is especially dangerous when elderly or children live in the home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect the harmful fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

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

The first step is to reduce the amount of water used in your home as much as you can. This includes cutting down on the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and decorations like aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must use a dehumidifier to make their home drier.

It’s also important to regularly inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other problems. If there are problems the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Leakage is another issue that can be found with ductwork. It is usually the result of improperly installed joints or seals that can result in cracks and gaps. This can be avoided by using high-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts are available in different materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that determine the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the least lifespan and are more susceptible to damage by pests and elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Airflow can be restricted by objects such as furniture, toys and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

A blocked duct can also result in uneven cooling and heating in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects that they have a humidity or leakage issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, since this will impact how quickly and at what cost the professional can finish the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid atmosphere where the spores of mold thrive. The spores are then distributed by your HVAC system throughout the home which causes allergic reactions in household members.

The visible signs of mold around air vents is an indication that you should employ an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Black dust particles can be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it’s a clear sign that there is a significant problem. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

Mold can also be detected by torn or ripped air insulation for ducts, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the problem with mold is serious, you could see rotting wooden and falling metal.

Stachybotrys is the most common mold that is found in air ducts. The mold can cause toxic mold. It is commonly found on wood and drywall surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to allergies, irritation to the eyes and throat, as well as respiratory problems.

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

It is recommended that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the main reason. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and ensure that it does not return.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters on a regular basis and to clean the ducts once every couple of years. Taking these steps will stop humidity and condensation which can trigger mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities that leave you with itchy, runny eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens to combat allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for things that trigger your allergic symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are all common allergies triggers. These particles can be tracked into your Fridley home on shoes or clothing and then scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can let these particles pass through, and they’ll be circulated all over the house.

The best method to fight these allergens is to do thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you breathe better and fight off allergies.

A duct that is dirty may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergy symptoms, especially when you already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted when air flows through your ducts and the vents inside your home.

When ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up inside them and then be spread throughout your home when the air conditioner is on. This can cause respiratory problems and could result in more serious illness in certain instances.

Many people, especially during the spring and early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their clothes and shoes. These allergens are likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed again until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens can remain in the air vents until you turn on your cooling or heating system.

Dirty air ducts are a major problem for homeowners. They can result in 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. Aeroseal technicians will apply a sealant that is pressurized to stop air from entering through ductwork that is leaky.