How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect particles, including dust, mildew and mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are becoming more severe or if you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency since they are sturdy and virtually completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and can be squeezed into tight spaces, however they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the efficiency of energy in a home. Leaks are commonplace when duct segments connect particularly at joints. The ducts can become loose and separate as time passes due to age, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections can stop air leakage. However, it is recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in your ducts by performing an inspection in your attic, basement and crawlspaces, where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas of ducts which are kinked, crushed or twisted. This could indicate a blockage which needs to be sealed. Examine the joints and seams to see if they’re warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the home. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at an even temperature.

The ductwork’s gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout the house, even when household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living areas.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts can also spread toxic fumes into the living area. If you keep paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This is particularly dangerous if you have elderly or children living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect the harmful fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

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

The first step is to reduce the use of water in the home as much as possible. Reduce the amount of water you use to cook, bathe and aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home more dry.

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

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

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that can influence the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they have the shortest lifespan and are susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Another issue with ducts is they are often blocked by toys, furniture and other objects that block airflow. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and efficiency of the system.

The blocked ducts can also result in uneven cooling and heating as well as a significant issue in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects they are suffering from leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It’s crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and how much the expert can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts could be caused by two things coming together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a moist environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then distributed through your HVAC system throughout your home which causes allergic reactions in household members.

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents is an indicator that you must employ an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often a sign of mold growth. If the area appears damp or slimy then there is clearly something wrong. If there is a musty scent that is an indication of a mold problem.

Other indicators of a mold issue in your air ducts are tears or tears in the insulation, rips on the vent covers rodent droppings and the cockroach shells. If the issue is severe you could observe decaying wood or sagging metal.

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

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

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts, but it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and stop it from returning. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t return.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. By following these steps, you can stop humidity and condensation, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities miserable, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a vital part of battling allergies, and the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a perfect breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

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

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

A dirty air duct can also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and trigger allergy symptoms, especially if you have allergies already. The bacteria can be transmitted when air passes through your ducts and into the vents in your home.

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

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people carry allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. These allergens are more likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are one of these areas, and if they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain 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 more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these problems by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to block air from entering through leaky ductwork.