How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other particles. These pollutants are then spread throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you notice a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts are rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and fit into tight spaces, however they are prone to damage by pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can reduce the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are commonplace when duct segments connect, especially at joints. The ducts can split and loosen over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections will help to prevent air leakage. However, it is best to hire a professional HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and seal your ducts.

You can look for indications of leaks in your ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked, which indicate blockage and need to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds it is likely that there are duct leaks in that area.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another sign of a leaking air duct. This is because air leaks could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

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

Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes as well as dust into the living space. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This problem is particularly hazardous for elderly or young children who reside in the house. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect the harmful fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a serious problem, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are a variety of things homeowners can do to reduce humidity and keep ductwork dry.

The first step is to limit water use in the home as much as is possible. Reduce the amount of water you use to cook, bathe and aquariums. In addition homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the home more dry.

It is also crucial to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold and other issues. Professionals should clean and seal ducts in the event of issues.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. This is typically because of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which could cause cracks and gaps. The best way to prevent this is by ensuring all joints and connections are correctly installed, and using high-quality materials like metal.

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

Another problem with ducts is that they are often blocked by toys, furniture and other items that block airflow. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and efficiency of the system.

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

A homeowner who suspects they are experiencing issues with leakage or humidity should call an HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork, and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork is easily accessible, since this will impact how quickly and how much the expert can complete the task.

Mold

Warm temperatures and moisture can create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is brought on by condensation within the air ducts. This creates a climate that is humid and conducive to mold growth. The spores can then be transported throughout the home through your HVAC system and cause allergy symptoms for household members.

The visible signs of mold around the air vents are a good indicator that you should hire an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears slimy or wet, it’s a clear indicator that there is a significant problem. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

It is also possible to detect mold by torn or ripped air insulation for ducts, rips on vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches shells. If the problem is severe it could be that you observe decaying wood or the metal is sagging.

The most common type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It is usually found on wood and drywall surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys can lead to allergies, irritated eyes nose and throat, and respiratory problems.

Symptoms of mold in the air ducts are wheezing, coughing, and a shortness of breath. Children and the elderly may experience more severe symptoms. The air ducts in the air can also cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the safety concerns involved. Mold spores spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they’ve begun to grow. Besides, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all of the mold and prevented it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.

To avoid mold growth in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters regularly and clean the ducts once every few years. These steps can help to keep moisture and condensation out, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

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

Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked in to your Fridley house on clothing or shoes and then dispersed throughout the home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork could allow these particles to pass through and be circulated throughout the house.

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the best way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles, helping you breathe better and fight off allergies.

A clogged air duct could also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies, particularly those who already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can spread when air flows through your ducts and the vents in your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioner. This can cause respiratory issues and in some instances more serious illnesses.

During the spring and early summer, many people carry allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these kinds of things and they’re more likely to be settling in areas that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are among these areas, and if they’re not regularly cleaned the allergens will remain in the air vents until you switch on your heating or cooling system.

Clean air ducts can be an issue for homeowners. They can result in more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians will employ a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.