How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency because they are sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the air conditioning to escape, and this can decrease the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are most common where duct segments join particularly at joints. These sections can separate and loosen in time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can look for indications of leaks in ducts by performing a visual inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas of ducts that are bent, crushed, or twisted. This is a sign of an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Examine if the seams or joints are warm. Be aware of any whistling sounds that occur when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks probably exist in that area.

Unidentified cold and hot spots are another sign of a leaking duct. This is due to air leaks that could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.

Gaps in ductwork can also distribute dust throughout the house, even when household activities haven’t changed. They can cause allergies and asthma symptoms in family members through the circulation of dust mites, mold spores and other allergens in living areas.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also let toxic fumes enter the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to fumes. This problem is particularly hazardous for elderly or young children who live in the home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes, and warn you of their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts are more likely to sweat than they should be. This is a major issue because sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are many ways homeowners can reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.

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

It’s also important to regularly examine the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there’s a problem the ducts need to be cleaned and sealed by a professional.

Leakage is another issue that can be found in ductwork. It is usually caused by improperly installed seals or joints that can lead to cracks and gaps. This is prevented by using high-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections have been properly installed.

Air ducts are available in a variety of materials, and each type has different characteristics that can affect how well they perform. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the least lifespan and are more prone to being damaged by pests and elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and can resist insects.

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

A blocked duct can also result in uneven heating and cooling in older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.

A homeowner who suspects they are suffering from humidity or leakage should contact an HVAC service. The professional will assess the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, since it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can complete the job.

Mold

Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation in the air ducts. This creates a climate that is moist and conducive to mold growth. The spores are then circulated through your HVAC system throughout your home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

Mold around the vents is a good indication to hire a professional HVAC for AC cleaning. Black dust particles can be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy, then there is clearly a problem. A musty odor is another sign of mold.

Other signs of a mold issue in your air ducts include tears or tears in the insulation, tears in the vent covers rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem with mold is severe, you may notice decaying wood and sliding metal.

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

Mold in air ducts can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breathe. Symptoms can be more than in children and the elderly. Air ducts that are contaminated with mold can cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold in their air ducts, but it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. The safety concerns are the main reason. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove once they have started growing. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from recurring. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and guarantee that it doesn’t return.

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

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities unpleasant, leaving you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general sense of discomfort. Making sure your home is free of allergens is a vital part of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding place for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can get transported 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 home by ductwork leaks.

The best way to combat these allergens is to do a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more easily.

A duct that is dirty may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and aggravate your allergies, particularly when you already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted by the air that flows through your ducts into the vents of your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can accumulate inside and spread throughout your home whenever you turn on your air cooling. This can lead to respiratory issues and can cause more serious illnesses in certain instances.

In the spring and early summer, a lot of people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites onto their clothes and shoes. These allergens are more likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed again until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, allergens may remain in the vents until your heating and cooling system is turned on.

Dirty air ducts can create many issues for homeowners, such as higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians will use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.