How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate debris, such as dust, mildew and mold. These pollutants are then distributed throughout the house. If your allergies are becoming worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it could be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and can be squeezed into tight spaces, but they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow air conditioning to escape from the system. They can drastically reduce a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur where duct segments meet and are most often at joints. The ducts can split and loosen over time as a result of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections can keep air from leaking. However, it’s recommended to hire an expert HVAC technician to carry out extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.

Check for indications of leaks in ducts in your attic or crawlspace where ductwork is exposed. Find areas of ducts that are bent, crushed or kinked. This indicates a blockage which needs to be sealed. Examine if the seams or joints are warm. Pay attention to any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these noises, there are probably leaks in the ducts.

Another sign of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the home. Because air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this may explain why those spaces are difficult to maintain the same temperature.

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

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts could also spread toxic fumes into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example could expose your family to harmful fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This risk is particularly threatening for elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes, and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot environments like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they ought to. This is a serious issue because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are a variety of things homeowners can do to reduce humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.

First, reduce the amount of water you use in your home. This includes reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and decorations like aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier to keep their homes drier.

It’s also important to periodically inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. This is typically because of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which could cause cracks and gaps. This can be prevented by using premium metals and making sure that all joints and connections are correctly installed.

Air ducts can be found in different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that determine the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they have the least life span and are prone to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a bit more expensive but they last longer and can repel insects.

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

Blocked ducts can also lead to uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings that are poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a humidity or leakage problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can complete the task.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can combine to cause mold to air conditioning ducts. 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 throughout the house through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms in household members.

The presence of mold around vents is a good indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears wet or slimy, then there is definitely something wrong. If there is a musty odor that is an indication of a mold spore.

Other signs of a mold problem in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers, rodent droppings and the cockroach shells. If the problem is serious it could be that you notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.

Stachybotrys is the most common mold that is found in air ducts. It can result in toxic mold. It is commonly found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritated eyes, nose and throat and respiratory issues.

Symptoms of mold in the air ducts are wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The symptoms can be more severe in children and the older. Air ducts can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

It is advised that homeowners do not attempt to remove large areas of mold. The safety concerns are the main reason. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eliminate when they begin to grow. In addition, there is no guarantee that the homeowner has successfully eliminated all the mold and stopped it from returning. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and make sure that it does not recur.

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

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities and leave you with itchy, dry eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens in order to combat allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be an ideal habitat for allergens that trigger your allergy symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley house on shoes or clothing and then sprayed throughout the home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can allow these particles to sneak through and then be recirculated throughout the home.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective method to fight these allergies. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you to breathe more comfortably and ward off your allergies.

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

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up in them and be circulated around your entire home, especially when the air conditioner is on. This can cause respiratory problems and could result in more serious illness in some cases.

Many people, especially during the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. These allergens are more likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of those areas. If they’re not regularly cleaned the allergens can remain in the air vents 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. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will employ an duct sealant that is pressurized to prevent air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.