How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other waste. The contaminants are then distributed throughout the home. If your allergies are becoming worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it may be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can decrease the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are typically found at the point where duct segments join, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections can help prevent air leakage. However, it’s recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.

Check for signs of duct leaks in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Find areas of ducts which are kinked, crushed or twisted. This indicates the presence of a blockage that must be sealed. Verify if the seams or joints are warm. Be aware of any whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks probably exist in that area.

Another sign of a leaking duct is unexplained hot or cold spots in the home. Because air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this could explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at a consistent temperature.

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

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous if you have children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes, and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

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

First, reduce the amount of water you use in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home drier.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold and other problems. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. This is usually caused by joint seals that are not properly installed that can lead to gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials such as metal.

Air ducts are made of various materials, and each type has different characteristics that impact the way they function. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they are the most brittle and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are slightly more expensive however they last longer and resist pests.

Another issue with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys and other items, which restricts airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

Blocked ducts can also cause uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is an issue for older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects that they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easy to access, since this could affect the speed at which the technician can get to work and also the total cost of the job.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is brought on by condensation in the air ducts. This creates a climate that is damp and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get circulated by your HVAC system throughout your home which causes allergic reactions in household members.

Mold around the vents is a good indication to hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it is a clear indication that there is a major issue. If there is a musty odor it is also an indication of a mold problem.

It is also possible to detect mold by torn or ripped air insulation in ducts, tears on vent covers rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may notice decaying wood and falling metal.

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

Mold in air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Children and seniors may suffer more severe symptoms. Mold in air ducts can also cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

It is advised homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the safety issues involved. Mold spores spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they have started growing. There is also no guarantee that the home owner has successfully eliminated all the mold and stopped it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t return.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed frequently and that the ducts are cleaned once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can keep humidity and condensation out which can promote mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities difficult, leaving you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general sense of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens in order to combat allergies. Your air conditioning ducts are a breeding ground for things that trigger your allergy symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores and pet dander are all typical allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley house on shoes or clothing and then dispersed throughout the home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can allow these particles to sneak through, and they’ll be circulated all over the house.

The best way to fight these allergens is with a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner will eliminate these particles, allowing you to breathe more comfortably and fight off allergies.

A clogged air duct could also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergy symptoms. The bacteria can be spread when the air flows through your ducts and the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can accumulate within them and circulate throughout your home when you turn on the air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and could result in more serious illness in certain cases.

During the spring and early summer months, many people carry allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these kinds of things and they’re likely to settle in places where they aren’t disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime example. If they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the vents until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Dirty air ducts pose an issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply an duct sealant that is pressurized to stop air from entering your home through leaky ductwork.