How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can collect debris, including dust, mildew and even mold. These pollutants are then distributed throughout the house. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you notice an unpleasant odor, it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their durable and nearly rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape and this can reduce the energy efficiency of a home. Leaks are commonplace at the point where duct segments meet, especially at joints. These sections may loosen and split over time due to age, gravity and other factors. The sealing of these connections with mastic or metal tape can assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to hire an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.

You can check for indications of leaks in ducts by performing an inspection of your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked, which indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Verify 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, duct leaks probably exist in that area.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaky duct. Because air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this could be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.

The ductwork’s gaps can distribute dust throughout the house even when the household activities haven’t changed. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites and other allergens in living spaces.

Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes as well as dust into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for instance could expose your family to harmful fumes if you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This is especially dangerous for elderly or young children who live in the home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that will detect these dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts are more prone to sweat than they ought to. This is because the ducts that sweat allow excessive moisture into homes, which can cause many issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to lower humidity and keep ductwork dry.

First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. This means cutting down on the amount of water used for cooking, bathing and decorations like aquariums. Additionally homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home drier.

It is also essential to regularly examine the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. Professionals must clean and seal the ducts if there are any problems.

Leakage is a common issue when it comes to ductwork. This is usually caused by improperly installed seals or joints which can cause gaps and cracks. This is prevented by using premium metals and making sure that all joints and connections are correctly installed.

Air ducts are made of different materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are more susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Airflow can be impeded by furniture, toys and other objects. A blocked duct can affect the airflow and efficiency of the system.

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

If a homeowner believes they have a leakage or humidity problem, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and provide recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is simple to access, as this will affect the speed with which the technician can get to work and also the total cost of the project.

Mold

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

Signs of mold on the surface around air vents is a good indicator that you need to engage an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Black dust particles can be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it’s a clear sign that there is a serious issue. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

Other indicators of a mold problem in your air ducts include ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the problem is serious, then you may even observe decaying wood or sliding metal.

The most popular type of mold that can be found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It can develop on the wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritated eyes and throat, as well as respiratory problems.

The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts can include coughing, wheezing and a shortness of breath. Symptoms can be more than in children and the elderly. Air ducts can also trigger nausea headaches, fatigue and fatigue.

It is suggested that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns are the reason for this. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to eradicate once they start growing. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and stop it from recurring. A professional can safely take away the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t return.

To stop the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters on a regular basis and to clean the ducts once every few years. These steps will help keep moisture and condensation out which can promote the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities difficult and leave you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. Your air conditioning ducts are an ideal habitat for allergens that trigger allergy symptoms.

Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can get tracked into your Fridley home via clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to sneak through and be circulated throughout the house.

The best way to combat these allergens is with thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles and help you breathe better.

A duct that is dirty could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergy symptoms, especially those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread by the air that flows through your ducts to the vents of your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can accumulate inside and spread throughout your home every time you turn on the air conditioner. This can lead to respiratory issues and can lead to more serious illnesses in certain cases.

During the spring and early summer, many people carry allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of the year to be exposed to these types of substances, and they’re likely to settle in areas where they won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is switched on.

Clean air ducts can be a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to more expensive energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply an duct sealant that is pressurized to stop air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.