How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, growth, and other particles. These contaminants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or you notice an unpleasant odor, it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency because they are durable and nearly impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow conditioned air to escape the system, and they can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most common when duct segments connect in particular at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. The sealing of these connections with metal tape or mastic can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and insulate the ducts.

You can look for indications of leaks in your ducts by performing an inspection of your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are damaged or kinked, which indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Examine whether the joints or seams are warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, there are probably duct leaks in that area.

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

Even when household activities are unchanged, gaps in ductwork can distribute dust throughout a building. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts can 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 the living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This risk is particularly threatening if you have elderly or children living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts are more prone to sweat than they should be. This is a major issue as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture into homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to decrease humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.

First, limit the amount of water used in your home. This includes reducing the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and for decorations such as aquariums. In addition homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to make the home drier.

It’s also important to regularly inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other problems. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts if there are any problems.

Leakage is another issue that can be found in ductwork. This is usually due to improperly installed seals or joints, which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed, and using high-quality materials such as metal.

Air ducts can be found in various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are prone to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a bit more expensive however they last longer and can resist pests.

Another issue with ducts is that they are often blocked by furniture, toys and other objects, which restricts airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

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

A homeowner who suspects they have a problem with humidity or leakage should contact an HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and provide suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is simple to access, as this will affect the speed with which the technician can get to work and also the total cost of the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together: moisture and warm temperatures. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid environment where the spores of mold thrive. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms in household members.

Mold around the vents is an indication that you should employ a professional HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears damp or slimy then there is clearly something wrong. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

Other indicators of a mold problem in your air ducts could be tears or tears in the insulation, rips in the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the issue is severe, then you may even observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

The most common type of mold in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It can grow on the wood and drywall surfaces, but also in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys can cause allergies, irritated eyes, nose and throat and respiratory problems.

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

It is advised homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. This is due to the safety concerns involved. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to get rid of once they start growing. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and stop it from recurring. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts at least once every few years. Following these steps will help keep humidity and condensation out which can trigger mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities unpleasant, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergy symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked in the Fridley home on clothing or shoes and then sprayed throughout the home by your HVAC system. These particles can be dispersed throughout the home by leaks in ductwork.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to combat these allergies. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more easily.

A clogged air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergies, particularly when you already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that flows through your ducts and into the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up within them, and later be spread throughout your home once the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and in some cases more serious illnesses.

Many people, particularly in the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes on their shoes and clothing. This is the worst time of the year to be exposed to these types of substances and they’re more likely to be settling in areas that aren’t disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of those areas. If they’re not cleaned regularly, the allergens will stay in the air vents until you switch on your heating or cooling system.

Clean air ducts can be an 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 employ the duct sealant with a pressurized system to prevent air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.