How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency due to their sturdy and virtually completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and can drastically reduce a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are typically found at the point where duct segments join, especially at joints. The ducts can become loose and break off over time due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air, but it’s best to engage an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.

Look for indications of leaks in the ducts in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Find areas where ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Verify whether the joints or seams are warm. Pay attention to whistling sounds that occur when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

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

Even if the activities of the household are unchanged, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout a structure. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members due to the circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes as well as dust into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for instance can expose your family to fumes in the event that you store pesticides and paint thinners in your basement. This risk is particularly threatening when you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a major issue because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to decrease humidity and keep the ductwork dry.

First, limit the amount of water that is used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home dry.

It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. Professionals should clean and seal ducts in the event of problems.

Leakage is another common problem when it comes to ductwork. This is usually due to joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are properly installed and made of high-quality materials such as metal.

Air ducts are available in different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that affect how well they perform. The least expensive air ducts, made of polyester, have the least time to live and are more prone to being damaged by pests and elements. Ducts made from aluminum are slightly more expensive however they last longer and resist pests.

Another issue with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys, and other objects, which restricts airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

Blocked ducts can also lead to uneven cooling and heating and cooling, which is an issue in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and provide recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and at what cost the professional can complete the task.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

Visual signs of mold around the air vents are an indicator that you must employ an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears to be wet or slimy then there is clearly an issue. A musty odor is another sign of mold.

Other signs of a mold issue in your air ducts are tears or tears in the insulation, rips in the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the mold issue is severe, you may observe decaying wood or falling metal.

The most frequent type of mold in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It can grow on wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys can trigger allergies, irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes, as well as respiratory issues.

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

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they’ve begun to grow. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and prevent it from recurring. A professional can safely remove mold from air ducts and ensure that it does not recur.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to ensure that the air filters are cleaned regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. Taking these steps will prevent condensation and humidity which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities that leave you with itchy, swollen eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is a vital part of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding ground for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley home through shoes or clothing, and then spread throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread throughout the house by leaks in the ductwork.

The best method to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can remove these particles, helping you to breathe more comfortably and combat your allergies.

A clogged air duct could also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergy symptoms. The bacteria can be spread through the air that flows through your ducts into your home’s vents.

When ducts are filthy the bacteria may build up inside them and then be circulated around your entire home, especially when the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and can lead to more serious illnesses in certain cases.

During the spring and early summer months, many people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these things and they’re more likely to settle in areas that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are one of those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain in your air vents until you turn on your heating or cooling system.

Dirty air ducts are a major problem for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through leaky ductwork.