How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew and mold growth, and other waste. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it might be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency since they are durable and nearly completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are prone to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are most prevalent when duct segments connect in particular at joints. These sections may loosen and split over time due to age gravity, gravity and other elements. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss, but it’s best to engage an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

Find signs of duct leaks in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate blockage and need to be sealed. Feel along the joints and seams to determine if they’re hot. Also pay attention to any whistling noises when the HVAC system is running. If you can hear these sounds it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Another common sign of a leaking duct is unexplained hot or cold spots throughout the house. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this issue may explain why those spaces are difficult to keep at the same temperature.

In addition, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout the building even when the household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts could also let toxic fumes enter the living space. 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 is especially dangerous for elderly or young children who reside in the house. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In hot, humid environments like Florida, air conditioning ducts are more prone to sweat than they ought to. This is a serious problem, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to lower humidity and keep the ductwork dry.

First, limit the amount of water you use in your home. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and even decorations such as aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also make use of a dehumidifier to keep their homes drier.

It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. If there are problems the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by professionals.

Leakage is a common issue with ductwork. Usually, this happens because of improperly installed joints or seals, which can lead to gaps and cracks. This is prevented by using top-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

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

Another issue with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys and other items which can impede airflow. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

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

A homeowner who suspects that they are experiencing issues with humidity or leakage should contact an HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork, and make recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easily accessible, since this will impact how quickly and how much the professional can finish the task.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and conducive to mold growth. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms for household members.

Mold around the vents is a clear indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of growth of mold. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a serious problem. If there is a musty scent it is also an indication of a mold spore.

Other signs of a mold problem in your air ducts include tears or tears in the insulation, tears in the vent covers rodent droppings, the cockroach shells. If the problem is severe you could observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

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

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

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts, but it is not recommended to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason. Mold spores can spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they’ve begun to grow. In addition, there is no guarantee that the homeowner has successfully removed all of the mold and prevented it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts at least once every couple of years. These steps can help to stop moisture and condensation which could encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities and leave you with itchy, swollen eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of battling allergies, and the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites mold spores, and pet dander are the most common allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked into your Fridley home via clothes or shoes, and then scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the home by leaks in ductwork.

The best way to fight these allergens is with thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and help you breathe better.

A clogged air duct could also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, especially if you have allergies already. These bacteria are spread by the air that passes through your ducts and into your home’s vents.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up within them and circulate throughout your home when you turn on your air conditioning. This can cause respiratory problems and can cause more serious illnesses in some cases.

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. This is the worst time of year for these things, and they’re likely to settle in areas that will not be disturbed until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your heating and cooling system is switched on.

Clean air ducts can be a major problem for homeowners. They can result in higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will use a pressurized duct sealant to stop air from entering your home through leaky ductwork.