How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect particles, including dust, mildew and mold. The contaminants are then spread throughout the house. If your allergies are becoming worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it could be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency because they are robust and almost impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are cheap. However they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in the ducts allow conditioned air to escape the system, and can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks usually occur when duct sections meet and are most often at joints. These sections may split and loosen over time because of gravity and age, among other things. Sealing these connections will help to stop air leakage. However, it’s recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to carry out extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

Find indications of leaks in ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Examine if the seams or joints are warm. Pay attention to any whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct are likely to be present in the area.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaking duct. Because air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain an even temperature.

Even when the household activities are not affected, gaps in ductwork can allow dust to circulate throughout a structure. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can trigger asthma and allergies in family members.

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This is especially dangerous for elderly or young children who reside in the house. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect the presence of these gases and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

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

First, limit the amount of water used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use to cook, bathe and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to make the home drier.

It is also essential to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. If there’s any issue, the ducts should be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Leakage is a common issue with ductwork. This is usually due to improperly installed seals or joints, which can cause gaps and cracks. This is prevented by using top-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections are properly installed.

Air ducts come in a variety of materials and each type has different characteristics that impact how well they perform. The least expensive air ducts made of polyester, have the lowest time to live and are more susceptible to damage by pests and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and can resist insects.

Another problem with ducts is that they can become blocked by toys, furniture, and other objects which can impede airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and energy efficiency of your system.

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

If a homeowner suspects that they are suffering from a leakage or humidity problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork, and make recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easy to access, as this could affect the speed at which the professional can arrive at work and also the total cost of the project.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is humid and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get circulated by your HVAC system throughout the house, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

Mold around the vents is a clear indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears damp or slimy, there is clearly something wrong. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

Other indicators of a mold problem in your air ducts include tears or tears in the insulation, rips on the vent covers rodent droppings, the cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is serious, you could observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

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

Symptoms of mold in the air ducts are wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Symptoms can be more severe in children and elderly. Air ducts can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the safety concerns involved. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and prevent it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t return.

To prevent the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts once every few years. Taking these steps will stop humidity and condensation which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, dry eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to combat allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be an ideal breeding ground for the things that trigger your allergy symptoms.

Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be carried into your Fridley home via clothes or shoes, and then scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles could be spread throughout the house by ductwork leaks.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is a great way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles and help you breathe more easily.

A duct that is dirty may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen allergies. The bacteria can be transmitted when air flows through your ducts, and then into the vents in your home.

When ducts are filthy, bacteria may build up inside and be circulated throughout your home every time you turn on the air conditioning. This can lead to respiratory issues and, in some cases, more serious illnesses.

In the spring and early summer, many people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites onto their shoes and clothes. This is the worst time of year to deal with these kinds of things and they’re likely to settle in places that will not be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is turned on.

Air ducts that are dirty can cause numerous problems for homeowners, including more expensive energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these problems by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will apply an duct sealant that is pressurized to stop air from getting into your home through ductwork that is leaky.