How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other particles. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it might be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are cheap. However, they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are typically found at the point where duct segments join, especially at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections can prevent air leakage. However, it’s recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to do extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Check to see if the seams or joints are warm. Be aware of any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these noises it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots are another sign of a leaky pipe. This is because air leaks can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

Even when household activities remain the same, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout a building. They can cause allergies and asthma symptoms in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes as well as dust into the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This is particularly dangerous when you have elderly or children living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that will detect these dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a major issue as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture into homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several 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 to cook, bathe and aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should utilize a dehumidifier in order to make their home dryer.

It’s also important to periodically check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts if there are any issues.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. Usually, this happens because of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which can lead to gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are available in various materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that determine the performance of these ducts. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the shortest lifespan and are more susceptible to being damaged by insects and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and can resist insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects such as furniture, toys, and other objects. A blocked duct can affect airflow and energy efficiency of your system.

A blocked duct can also lead to uneven cooling and heating as well as a significant issue in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they are experiencing issues with humidity or leakage should contact a HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and suggest any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and how much the professional can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms in household members.

Mold around the vents is a good indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of growth of mold. If the area appears damp or slimy, there is clearly something wrong. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

It is also possible to detect mold by ripped or torn air insulation in ducts, tears on vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may see rotting wooden and sagging metal.

Stachybotrys is the most frequent mold that is found in air ducts. The mold can cause toxic mold. It can develop on wood and drywall surfaces and also in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation of the eyes, allergies, nose and throat and respiratory issues.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breathe. Children and seniors may suffer more severe symptoms. Mold in air ducts can cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts, but it is not recommended to try to clean any large patches of mold. This is due to the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove after they have begun to grow. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and keep it from recurring. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.

To avoid mold growth in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters on a regular basis and to clean the ducts at least once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can prevent condensation and humidity which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities difficult, leaving you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is an essential part of battling allergies, and the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding place for the things that trigger your symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are all typical allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked in the Fridley home on clothing or shoes, and then spread throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can let these particles pass through and be circulated throughout the home.

The best method to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you breathe better and combat your allergies.

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

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and spread throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioning. This can cause respiratory problems and could result in more serious illness in certain cases.

Many people, especially in the spring and early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are most likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed again until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is switched on.

Dirty air ducts are an issue for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians will employ a pressurized sealant to prevent air from getting through ductwork that has been leaking.