How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew and mold growth, and other debris. These contaminants are then spread throughout the house. If your allergies are becoming worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it may be the time to schedule a clean.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency since they are robust and almost completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are affordable. However they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can decrease the efficiency of energy in a home. Leaks are typically found where duct segments meet and are most often at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time as a result of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections can help prevent air leakage. However, it’s recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to do extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.

Look for signs of duct leaks in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Examine whether the joints or seams are warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sounds 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 due to air leaks that can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

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

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. Leaking ductwork for instance can expose your family members to fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This is especially dangerous if children or elderly adults reside in the house. 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 hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a serious problem because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture into homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.

The first step is to limit water use in the home as much as is possible. Reduce the amount of water you use for bathing, cooking and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also use a dehumidifier to make their home dryer.

It is also crucial to regularly check the ductwork for signs of mold and other problems. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts if there are any issues.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. This is typically because of improperly installed joints or seals, which could cause cracks and gaps. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections are properly installed.

Air ducts are available in various materials. Each type has its own characteristics that can influence how well they perform. The cheapest air ducts, which are made of polyester, have the least life expectancy and are more vulnerable to damage caused by insects and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Another issue with ducts is they may be blocked by furniture, toys, and other objects that block airflow. Blocked ducts can affect both the flow of air and the efficiency of the system.

The blocked ducts can also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a leakage or humidity problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and how much the expert can complete the job.

Mold

Moisture and warm temperatures can create mold in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is moist and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores are then circulated through your HVAC system throughout the house, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

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

Other signs of a mold problem in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the mold problem is serious, you could see rotting wooden and sagging metal.

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

Symptoms of mold in the air ducts are coughing, wheezing and a shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may have more severe symptoms. Air ducts that are contaminated with mold can also cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.

It is recommended that homeowners do not attempt to remove large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. Besides, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all the mold and stopped it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t recur.

To prevent the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts at least once every couple of years. By following these steps, you can keep humidity and condensation out, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities difficult, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses, 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 perfect breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

Dust mites, pollen, mold spores and pet dander are the most common allergy triggers. These particles can get transported into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can allow these particles to sneak through, and they’ll be circulated throughout the home.

The best method 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 comfortably.

A duct that is dirty could also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen your allergies. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that flows through your ducts and into your home’s vents.

If the ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up in them and be spread throughout your home, especially when the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory problems and in some cases more serious ailments.

Many people, especially in the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes through their clothes and shoes. These allergens are most likely to settle into places which won’t be re-infested until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime example. If they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is turned on.

Dirty air ducts are a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to more expensive energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to prevent air from getting through leaky ductwork.