How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other waste. The contaminants are then spread throughout the house. If your allergies are getting worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it might be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts are nearly resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit air conditioning to escape from the system. They can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur where duct segments meet, especially at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. The sealing of these connections with metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can check for signs of duct leaks by performing an inspection in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces, where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas of ducts which are kinked, crushed or twisted. This indicates a blockage which needs to be sealed. Check to see if the seams or joints are warm. Be aware of any whistling noises when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots could be a sign of a leaky air duct. This is because air leaks could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

In addition, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout the house, even when household activities haven’t changed. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members by circulating dust mites, mold spores and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts can also spread toxic fumes into the living space. Leaking ductwork for instance can expose your family to fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This issue is particularly dangerous when elderly or children live in the home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that will detect these dangerous gasses and alert you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they should. This is a serious issue as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture to enter homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to decrease humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.

The first step is to reduce the amount of water used in your home as much as is possible. This means cutting down on the amount of water used to cook, bathe, and decorations like aquariums. In addition, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to make the home drier.

It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. If there are problems the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. It is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly that can lead to cracks and gaps. This is prevented by using premium metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts come in a variety of materials, and each type has different characteristics that impact how well they function. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are more susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys and other items which can impede airflow. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

Blocked ducts may also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects that they have a problem with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is accessible to access, as this will affect the speed with which the pro can get to work and the overall cost of the job.

Mold

The warm and humid temperatures combine to cause mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates an environment that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout the house, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The presence of mold around vents is an indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area looks wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a significant issue. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

Mold can also be identified by torn or ripped air insulation in ducts, tears on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may see rotting wooden and falling metal.

The most popular kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It can be found on drywall and wood surfaces, but also in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to irritation of the eyes, allergies nose and throat, and respiratory issues.

Symptoms of mold in air ducts include wheezing, coughing and breath shortness. Children and seniors may have more severe symptoms. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can cause nausea, fatigue, and headaches.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold from their air ducts, but it is not recommended to try to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the safety concerns involved. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eradicate when they begin to grow. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and keep it from returning. A professional can safely remove the mold from the air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t recur.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters frequently and to clean the ducts every couple of years. These steps will stop moisture and condensation, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities miserable, leaving you with itchy eyes, runny noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergic symptoms.

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

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

A duct that is dirty could also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergy symptoms. The bacteria can transmitted when air moves through your ducts and the vents in your home.

If the ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up within them, and later be circulated throughout your home when the air conditioner is turned on. This can cause respiratory problems and can lead to more serious illnesses in some cases.

During the spring and early summer, many people bring in allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. These allergens are likely to settle in places which won’t be re-infested until the following 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.

Dirty air ducts can create many problems for homeowners, including more expensive energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through leaky ductwork.