How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew and mold growth, and other particles. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are worsening or you notice an unpleasant odor, it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts promote energy efficiency due to their robust and almost impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and can be squeezed into tight spaces, however they are prone to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, and this can decrease the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks typically occur when duct sections meet particularly at joints. These sections can loosen and split as time passes due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections with mastic or metal tape can help prevent air loss, but it’s best to engage an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.

Find indications of leaks in ducts in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked which indicates obstruction and should be sealed. Check the joints and seams to see if they’re warm. Be aware of any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots in the home. This is because air leaks could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

The ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout the building even when the household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members through the circulation of dust mites, mold spores and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes as well as dust into the living space. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for example, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This is especially dangerous if children or elderly adults reside in the house. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a major issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture into homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several steps homeowners can take to reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.

First, limit the amount of water used in your home. This means reducing the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and decorations like aquariums. In addition homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house drier.

It is also important to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by professionals.

Leakage is another issue that can be found with ductwork. This is usually caused by joint seals that are not properly installed that can lead to gaps and cracks. This can be avoided by using high-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts can be found in different materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that determine the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they have the least life span and are more susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they may be blocked by toys, furniture and other objects, which restricts airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

Blocked ducts may also cause uneven cooling and heating in older buildings that have poorly constructed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects they are experiencing issues with humidity or leakage should contact a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It’s important that the ductwork is accessible to access, since this can affect how quickly the technician can get to work and the overall cost of the project.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can be caused by two things coming together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is damp and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores can then be distributed throughout the house by your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents is a good indicator that you should employ an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears damp or slimy then there is a problem. If there is a musty scent, this is also an indication of a mold problem.

Mold can also be identified by torn or ripped air insulation for ducts, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the problem is severe it could be that you notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.

The most popular type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It can be found on wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys can trigger allergies, irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes, and respiratory problems.

Symptoms of mold in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing and breath shortness. Children and the elderly may experience more severe symptoms. Air ducts can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to remove large areas of mold. This is due to the safety issues involved. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are difficult to eliminate when they begin to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and keep it from recurring. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and ensure that it does not recur.

The best way to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are cleaned regularly and that the ducts are cleaned once every couple of years. Following these steps will help keep humidity and condensation out, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is an essential part of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

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

The best way to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and help you breathe better.

A duct that is dirty could also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and aggravate your allergies, especially when you already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread when the air flows through your ducts and into the vents of your home.

If the ducts get dirty, bacteria can accumulate inside and spread throughout your home when you turn on the air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and, in some instances, more serious illnesses.

Many people, especially in the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites into their homes through their shoes and clothing. This is the worst time of year for these kinds of things, and they’re likely to settle in areas where they will not be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime example. If they are not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the vents until your heating and cooling system is switched on.

Dirty air ducts pose an issue for homeowners. They can lead to more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians will use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through leaky ductwork.