How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other debris. These pollutants are then spread 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 because they are durable and nearly rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and fit into tight spaces, however they are susceptible to damage from pests.

Leaks

Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the energy efficiency of homes. Leaks are commonplace at the point where duct segments meet particularly at joints. These sections can loosen and separate as time passes due to age gravity, gravity and other elements. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic will aid in preventing air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and insulate the ducts.

You can identify indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Check 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. 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.

Unexplained hot and cold spots could be a sign of a leaky air duct. This is due to air leaks that can prevent the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

The ductwork’s gaps can spread dust throughout the building even if household activities aren’t changing. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members through the circulation of dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens in living areas.

In addition to spreading dust, leaking ducts can also release toxic fumes into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example can expose your family to harmful fumes when you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This issue is particularly dangerous if children or elderly adults reside in the house. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes, and warn you about their presence.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they ought to. This is a problem since the sweaty ducts are allowing excessive humidity into homes. This could cause a variety of issues, such as mold growth and poor indoor air quality. There are a variety of ways homeowners can reduce humidity and ensure that their ductwork is dry.

The first thing to do is limit water use in the home as much as is possible. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid areas, homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home dryer.

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

Leakage is another issue that can be found when it comes to ductwork. This is typically because of joints that are not properly installed 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 made of high-quality materials like metal.

Air ducts are made of various materials. Each type has its own characteristics that determine the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are more susceptible to damage from pests and the elements. Ducts made of aluminum are slightly more expensive, but they last longer and can resist insects.

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

The blocked ducts can also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.

If a homeowner suspects they have a humidity or leakage problem, they should contact an experienced 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 can occur when two factors come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid environment in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then transported throughout the home through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms for household members.

The presence of mold around vents is a clear indication that you should hire a professional HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a major issue. If there is a musty odor, this is also an indication of a mold spore.

Mold can also be detected by torn or damaged air duct insulation, rips on vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the issue is severe you could notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.

The most frequent type of mold 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 rafters and the walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation to the eyes and throat, as well as respiratory issues.

The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more severe in children and the elderly. The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can also cause nausea headaches, fatigue and fatigue.

It is advised that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the reason for this. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to remove after they have begun to grow. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts once every few years. By following these steps, you can stop humidity and condensation, which can encourage mold growth.

Allergens

Allergies can make your summertime activities difficult and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is an essential part of battling allergies, and your air conditioning ducts could be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

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

The best way to combat these allergens is to do thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles, allowing you to breathe more comfortably and combat your allergies.

A clogged air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and worsen allergies, especially those who 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 build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioning. This can cause respiratory problems and in some cases more serious ailments.

In the spring and early summer months, many people are exposed to allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are most likely to settle into places which won’t be re-infested until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is switched on.

Dirty air ducts pose a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by regularly cleaning your ducts and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through leaky ductwork.