How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate particles, including dust, mildew and mold. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are worsening or if you smell an unpleasant odor, it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy used in homes. Leaks are typically found when duct sections meet, especially at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time as a result of gravity, age and other factors. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to insulate the ducts.

Look for indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Find areas where ducts are kinked or crushed which indicates blockage and require to be sealed. Check the seams and joints to determine if they’re hot. Be aware of any whistling sounds when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these noises you could have duct leaks in that area.

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

Even when household activities remain the same, gaps in ductwork can allow dust to circulate throughout a building. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes and dust into the living area. Leaking ductwork for instance could expose your family to fumes when you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This problem is especially dangerous when you have children or elderly people living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect dangerous gases and alert you to their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is because the sweaty ducts are allowing excessive humidity into homes. This could cause a variety of issues, including the growth of mold and poor indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are several ways homeowners can reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

First, limit the amount of water you use in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the home drier.

It’s also important to periodically examine the ductwork for signs of mold or other problems. If there’s a problem the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by professionals.

Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. This is usually caused by improperly installed seals or joints which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that determine the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they have the least life span and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a little more expensive however they last longer and be resistant to insects.

Airflow may be limited by furniture, toys and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.

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

A homeowner who suspects they have a problem with leakage or humidity should contact a HVAC service. The professional will assess the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork is accessible to access, as this could affect the speed at which the professional can arrive at work and the overall cost of the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts could be caused by two things coming together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates an environment that is humid and ideal for the growth of mold. The spores are then circulated throughout the house by your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms for household members.

Mold around the vents is an indication to hire an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black can be an indication that mold is growing. If the area appears damp or slimy, then there is clearly an issue. A musty smell is another sign of mold.

It is also possible to detect mold by torn or damaged air insulation in ducts, tears on vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem is serious it could be that you notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.

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

Mold in the air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing 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.

It is recommended homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to eradicate when they begin to grow. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not recur.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters on a regular basis and to clean the ducts once every few years. These steps can help to stop moisture and condensation which could encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities miserable and leave you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergic symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can get tracked into your Fridley home on clothes or shoes and later dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house due to ductwork leaks.

The best way to combat the allergens that cause you to suffer is thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and help you breathe more easily.

A duct that is dirty may also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and trigger allergy symptoms, especially those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can spread when the air passes through your ducts, and then into the vents inside your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on your air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and, in some instances more serious ailments.

During the spring and early summer months, many people carry allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. These allergens are likely to be deposited in areas which won’t be re-infested until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens could remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is turned on.

Dirty air ducts are an issue for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ducts using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that is leaky.