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 getting worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it may be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and fit into tight spaces, but they are prone to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can decrease the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks are most common at the point where duct segments meet, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over 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 hire an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can look for indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are damaged or kinked that indicate blockage and need to be sealed. Feel along the joints and seams to determine if they’re hot. Pay attention to any whistling sounds that occur when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots could be a sign of a leaking duct. This is due to air leaks that can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

Gaps in ductwork can also spread dust throughout the house, even when household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts can also spread toxic fumes into the living area. If you keep paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This is particularly dangerous for elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect the presence of these gases and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot environments like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they should be. This is a problem since the ducts that sweat allow excessive humidity into homes. This could cause a variety of issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are many ways homeowners can reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.

First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. This includes cutting down on the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and decorations like aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home drier.

It’s also important to periodically check the ductwork for indications of mold or other problems. Professionals should clean and seal ducts in the event of 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. This can be avoided by using top-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections have been correctly installed.

Air ducts can be found in different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that can influence the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests and the elements. Ducts made from aluminum are slightly more expensive but they last longer and can be resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by furniture, toys and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

The blocked ducts can also result in uneven heating and cooling as well as a significant issue in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner believes they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, since this will affect how quickly and how much the professional can finish the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates a climate that is moist and conducive to mold growth. The spores are then distributed through your HVAC system throughout the home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

Mold around the vents is an 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 there is definitely a problem. If there is a musty odor, this is also an indication of a mold infestation.

Mold can also be detected by torn or ripped air insulation in ducts, tears on vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the mold issue is severe, you may notice decaying wood and sagging metal.

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

Mold in air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breathe. The symptoms may be more severe in children and the elderly. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the safety issues involved. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they’ve begun to grow. There is also no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all the mold and prevented it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and make sure that it does not return.

To stop the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters regularly and to clean the ducts every couple of years. Taking these steps will 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 feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is an essential part of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding ground for the things that trigger your symptoms.

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

The best way to combat the allergens that cause you to suffer is a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more comfortably.

A clogged air duct may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, especially if you have allergies already. These bacteria are spread when the air flows through your ducts and the vents in your home.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home every time you turn on the air cooling. This can lead to respiratory issues and even cause more serious illnesses in some cases.

Many people, particularly in the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites into their homes on their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of the year to be exposed to these kinds of things and they’re more likely to settle in areas that aren’t disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain in your air ducts until you turn on your heating or cooling system.

Dirty air ducts pose a major issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through leaky ductwork.