How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts can accumulate debris, such as dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or you notice a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts are rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are prone to pest damage.
Leaks
Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape and this can reduce the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks are typically found at the point where duct segments join, especially at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will assist in preventing the loss of air however, it’s recommended to hire an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.
Check for indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where the ductwork is exposed. Check for areas of ducts that appear kinked, crushed or twisted. This indicates an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Feel along the joints and seams to determine if they’re hot. Pay attention to any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks probably exist in that area.
Another sign of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots throughout the house. This is due to air leaks that can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.
Gaps in ductwork can also spread dust throughout the house even when the household activities haven’t changed. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.
In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also release toxic fumes into the living area. If you keep paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This problem is particularly hazardous if children or elderly adults live in the home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.
High Humidity
In humid, hot environments like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they ought to. This is a serious problem because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are a variety of ways homeowners can reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.
The first thing to do is reduce the use of water in the home as much as you can. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must use a dehumidifier to make their home drier.
It is also essential to regularly inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by an expert.
Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. Usually, this happens because of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which can result in cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are properly installed and using top-quality materials such as metal.
Air ducts come in various materials, and each one has its own characteristics that affect the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a little more expensive however they last longer and can be resistant to insects.
Airflow can be impeded by objects such as furniture, toys, and other objects. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and efficiency of the system.
The blocked ducts can also lead to uneven heating and cooling and cooling, which is a significant issue in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.
If a homeowner suspects they have a problem with humidity or leakage should contact a HVAC service. The expert will assess the ductwork, and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It’s important that the ductwork is simple to access, as this can affect how quickly the professional can arrive at work and also the total cost of the task.
Mold
Warm temperatures and moisture can combine to cause mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a moist environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then distributed throughout the house by your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms in household members.
Visual signs of mold around the air vents are an indicator that you should employ an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be a sign of mold growth. If the area looks slimy or wet, it’s a clear indicator that there is a serious issue. 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 duct insulation, rips on vent covers rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the problem is serious it could be that you observe decaying wood or sagging metal.
The most common type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is commonly found on wood and drywall surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritated eyes, nose and throat and respiratory issues.
The signs of mold in air ducts include wheezing, coughing and a shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may experience more severe symptoms. The air ducts in the air can cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.
Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to try 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 eliminate once they have started growing. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and keep it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.
To prevent the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts 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 that leave you with itchy, dry eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a crucial aspect of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.
Pollen, dust mites mold spores and pet dander are the most common allergens that trigger allergies. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley home through footwear or clothing and then sprayed throughout the home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork could let these particles pass through and then be recirculated throughout the house.
The best way to combat these allergens is with thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and help you breathe more easily.
A clogged air duct could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and worsen allergies, particularly if you have allergies already. The bacteria can be spread when the air passes through your ducts and the vents in your home.
If the ducts are dirty bacteria can grow inside them and then be spread throughout your home once the air conditioner is on. This can cause respiratory problems and in some cases more serious illnesses.
In the spring and early summer, many people bring in allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed again until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are among these areas, and if they’re not regularly cleaned, the allergens will stay in your air ducts until you switch on your cooling or heating system.
Air ducts that are dirty can cause many issues for homeowners, including 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. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to prevent air from getting through ductwork that is leaky.