How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts promote energy efficiency since they are durable and nearly impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and fit into tight spaces, but they are prone to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy used in a home. Leaks are commonplace where duct segments join in particular at joints. The ducts can become loose and split as time passes due to age gravity, gravity, and other causes. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss however, it’s recommended to engage an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

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

Another sign of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the house. This is because air leaks can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

Gaps in ductwork can also spread dust throughout the house, even when household activities haven’t changed. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous for children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a major issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture into homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to lower humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.

First, reduce the amount of water you use in your home. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing, and for decorations such as aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house drier.

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

Leakage is a common issue when it comes to ductwork. It is usually caused by joint seals that are not properly installed, which can cause gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections have been correctly installed.

Air ducts are available in a variety of materials, and each has distinct characteristics that affect the way they perform. The cheapest air ducts, made of polyester, have the shortest life expectancy and are more vulnerable to damage by insects and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by objects like furniture, toys, and other objects. Blocked ducts can affect both the flow of air and the efficiency of the system.

Blocked ducts may also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings that have poorly constructed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a leakage or humidity problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and provide recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, since this will affect how quickly and at what cost the professional can complete the task.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can be caused by two things coming together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation inside 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.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents is an indication that you must hire an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be a sign that mold is growing. If the area appears to be slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a serious issue. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

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

Stachybotrys is the most common mold that is found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It is usually found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation of the throat, nose and eyes, as well respiratory problems.

Mold in air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Children and seniors may suffer more severe symptoms. Air ducts that are contaminated with mold can also cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to try to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the safety concerns involved. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are difficult to eradicate once they start growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from resurfacing. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.

To stop the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts every few years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture which could encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities that leave you with itchy, dry eyes and a general sense of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a crucial aspect of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding place for the things that cause your symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked the Fridley home on shoes or clothing, and then spread throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to pass through and then be recirculated throughout the house.

The best way to fight these allergens is to do an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can remove these particles, helping you breathe better and ward off your allergies.

A clogged air duct may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergies. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that passes through your ducts into your home’s vents.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can accumulate inside and spread throughout your home every time you turn on your air conditioner. This can lead to respiratory issues and even cause more serious illnesses in some cases.

Many people, particularly in the spring and early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. This is the worst time of year for these types of substances, and they’re likely to settle in places that will not be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly, the allergens will stay in your air ducts until you switch on your heating or cooling system.

Dirty air ducts are a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy costs, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these problems by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will apply the duct sealant with a pressurized system to prevent air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.