How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other particles. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency since they are sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are cheap. However, they are susceptible to damage by pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent when duct segments connect particularly at joints. These sections can loosen and split as time passes due to age gravity, gravity, and other causes. Sealing these connections will help to stop air leakage. However, it is best to hire a professional HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.

You can look for signs of duct leaks by conducting an inspection of your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas of ducts which are bent, crushed, or twisted. This could indicate an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Be aware of any whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots in the home. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to maintain an even temperature.

The ductwork’s gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout the house, even when household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores, and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts may also let toxic fumes enter the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example could expose your family to harmful fumes in the event that you store pesticides and paint thinners in your basement. This risk is particularly threatening if you have children or elderly people living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect these dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

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

First, limit the amount of water used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In addition homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the home more dry.

It is also essential to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold and other issues. If there are problems the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Leakage is another common problem in ductwork. This is usually caused by improperly installed seals or joints which can cause gaps and cracks. This is prevented by using top-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections are correctly installed.

Air ducts are made of various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that determine the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they have the least life span and are prone to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made from aluminum are slightly more expensive however they last longer and can repel insects.

Another issue with ducts is they can become blocked by furniture, toys and other items, which restricts airflow. A blocked duct can affect airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy usage.

Blocked ducts can also lead to uneven cooling and heating, which can be an issue in older buildings that are poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects they have a problem with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is accessible to access, as this could affect the speed at which the technician can get to work and the overall cost of the task.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can combine to cause mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid atmosphere where the spores of mold thrive. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents is an indication that you must employ an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy then there is clearly a problem. If there is a musty odor, this is also an indication of a mold spore.

It is also possible to detect mold by ripped or torn air insulation for ducts, rips on vent covers rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the problem is severe, then you may even observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

The most popular kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It is commonly found on drywall and wood surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation, allergies to the throat, nose, and eyes, as well as respiratory issues.

Mold in the air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breathe. The symptoms may be more than in children and the elderly. Mold in air ducts can cause headaches, fatigue and nausea.

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores can spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they’ve begun to grow. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and keep it from recurring. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and to clean the ducts every few years. These steps can help to stop moisture and condensation which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can ruin your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of battling allergies, and the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are the most common allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley house on clothing or shoes, and then spread throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house by ductwork leaks.

The best method to fight these allergens is with an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can remove the particles, allowing you to breathe more comfortably and combat your allergies.

A dirty air duct may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, particularly when you already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can spread when the air flows through your ducts, and then into the vents of your home.

When ducts are filthy bacteria can grow inside them and then be circulated throughout your home, especially when the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and could result in more serious illness in certain cases.

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people bring in allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites onto their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of the year to be exposed to these kinds of things and they’re more likely to settle in areas where they won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are one of these areas, and if they’re not regularly cleaned, the allergens will stay in the air vents until you turn on your heating or cooling system.

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