How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, growth, and other waste. These pollutants are then dispersed throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are becoming more severe or you notice a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency because they are sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit conditioned air to escape the system. They can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent where duct segments join in particular at joints. These sections can loosen and separate over time due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections can keep air from leaking. However, it’s recommended to hire an expert HVAC technician to carry out extensive repairs and insulate your ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in your ducts by conducting an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Check the seams and joints to see if they’re warm. Pay attention to 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 a leaking duct is unexplained hot or cold spots in the house. This is because air leaks can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

Even if the activities of the household are not affected, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout a structure. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to the fumes. This risk is particularly threatening for elderly or children in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that will detect dangerous gasses and alert you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should. This is a serious problem, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to get into homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to lower humidity and keep the ductwork dry.

The first step is to reduce the use of water in the home as much as is possible. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and even decorations such as aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home drier.

It is also essential to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which could cause cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts come in a variety of materials, and each type has different characteristics that impact the way they function. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the shortest time to live and are more susceptible to being damaged by insects and elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are more resistant to insects.

Another issue with ducts is that they may be blocked by furniture, toys, and other objects that block airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and energy efficiency of the system.

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

If a homeowner believes they have a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and provide suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is simple to access, since this can affect how quickly the pro can get to work and the overall cost of the job.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can combine to cause mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates a climate that is damp and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores then get circulated throughout the house through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms for household members.

The visible signs of mold around air vents are an indication that you should employ an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then there is an issue. If there is a musty scent it is also an indication of a mold infestation.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts are tears or tears in the insulation, tears in the vent covers, rodent droppings and the cockroach shells. If the problem is serious you could notice decaying wood and sliding metal.

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

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

It is recommended that homeowners do not attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eradicate when they begin to grow. Besides, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully eliminated 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 air ducts, make sure to change the air filters on a regular basis and clean the ducts every couple of years. Following these steps will help prevent condensation and humidity which can promote mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can halt your summer activities that leave you with itchy, swollen eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding place for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

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

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe better.

A duct that is dirty may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and worsen allergies, particularly those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread when the air passes through your ducts, and then into the vents of your home.

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

During the spring and early summer months, many people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites onto their clothes and shoes. These allergens are likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are among those areas, and when they’re not regularly cleaned, the allergens will stay in your air ducts until you turn on your cooling or heating system.

Dirty air ducts are a major problem for homeowners. They can lead to more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply the duct sealant with a pressurized system to block air from getting into your home through ductwork that is leaky.