How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew, growth, and other debris. These pollutants are then dispersed throughout the house. If your allergies are getting worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it could be time to schedule a cleaning.

Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency because they are robust and almost rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are affordable. However, they are susceptible to pest damage.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit air conditioning to escape from the system, and can drastically reduce a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur where duct segments meet and are most often at joints. These sections can loosen and separate in time due to aging, gravity and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to engage an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.

You can check for indications of leaks in ducts by performing an inspection in your basement, attic, and crawlspaces where the runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas of ducts that appear kinked, crushed or twisted. This is a sign of the presence of a blockage that must be sealed. Verify whether the joints or seams are warm. Also pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.

Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another sign of a leaking pipe. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this issue may be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.

Even when the household activities remain the same, gaps in ductwork can distribute dust throughout a structure. They can trigger asthma and allergies in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.

Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes and dust into the living area. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This risk is particularly threatening for elderly or children living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect the presence of these gases and alert you to their presence.

High Humidity

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

First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for bathing, cooking and aquariums. Additionally, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home drier.

It’s also important to periodically check the ductwork for indications of mold or other problems. If there are problems, the ducts should be cleaned and sealed by an expert.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. This is typically because of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals that can lead to gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections have been correctly installed.

Air ducts are available in different materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that determine the way they perform. Polyester air ducts are most affordable, however they are the most brittle and are prone to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more costly, but last longer and are resistant to insects.

Airflow may be limited by objects like furniture, toys and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and efficiency of the system.

A blocked duct can also cause 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 humidity or leakage should contact an HVAC service. The professional will assess the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, as this will impact how quickly and at what cost the professional can finish the task.

Mold

Moisture and warm temperatures can create mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a humid atmosphere in which the mold spores thrive. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout your home and cause allergic reactions among household members.

Visual signs of mold around air vents are an indication that you should engage an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black can be an indication that mold is growing. If the area appears to be slimy or wet, it’s a clear sign that there is a serious problem. A musty smell is another indication of mold.

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

The most popular type of mold in air ducts is Stachybotrys which can cause toxic mold. It can be found on the wood and drywall surfaces, but also in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys can cause irritation to the throat, nose, and eyes, and respiratory problems.

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

It is suggested homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. The safety concerns are the reason. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to eradicate when they begin to grow. There is no guarantee that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and keep it from returning. A professional can safely take away the mold from the air ducts and make sure that it doesn’t come back.

The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are cleaned frequently and that the ducts are cleaned once every couple of years. Taking these steps will stop humidity and condensation which can trigger the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can make summertime activities miserable, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses and a general sense of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is an essential part of fighting allergies. Moreover, the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a perfect breeding ground for the triggers that cause your symptoms.

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

A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is a great way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaner can eliminate these particles, allowing you breathe better and combat your allergies.

A dirty air duct can also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make you sick and worsen allergies. The bacteria can be spread when air flows through your ducts and into the vents of your home.

When ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up in them and be circulated around your entire home once the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and in some instances more serious illnesses.

In the spring and early summer months, many people carry allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. This is the most unpleasant time of the year to be exposed to these things and they’re more likely to settle in places where they won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are among those areas, and when they’re not regularly cleaned the allergens will remain in the air vents until you switch on your cooling or heating system.

Dirty air ducts can create many issues for homeowners, including higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will employ an duct sealant that is pressurized to block air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.