How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts can accumulate dust, mildew, mold growth, and other waste. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are worsening or if you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a home cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts promote energy efficiency due to their durable and nearly completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and can be squeezed into tight spaces, but they are prone to damage by pests.
Leaks
Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks are typically found when duct sections meet and are most often at joints. These sections may loosen and separate over time due to age gravity, gravity, and other causes. The sealing of these connections using mastic or metal tape can assist in preventing the loss of air however, it’s recommended to hire an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and to seal the ducts.
You can check for signs of duct leaks by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Check for areas of ducts that are kinked, crushed or twisted. This is a sign of an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Verify 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 could be present in that area.
Unsuspecting hot and cold spots are another sign of a leaky pipe. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this issue may explain why those spaces are difficult to keep at a consistent temperature.
In addition, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout the building, even when household activities aren’t changing. Dust mould spores, mites and other allergens can trigger asthma and allergies in family members.
Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes and dust into the living area. If you keep pesticides or paint thinners in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into the living space and expose your family members to fumes. This is especially dangerous if children or elderly adults reside in the house. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.
High Humidity
In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a serious issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture into homes which can 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 you use in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for bathing, cooking and aquariums. In addition homeowners should make use of a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home drier.
It’s also important to periodically examine the ductwork for signs of mold or other problems. If there are problems the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by a professional.
Leakage is a common issue with ductwork. It is usually the result of improperly installed joints or seals that can lead to gaps and cracks. This is prevented by using top-quality metals and ensuring that all joints and connections have been properly installed.
Air ducts are made of various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. Polyester air ducts are the least expensive, but they have the shortest lifespan and are prone to being damaged by pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.
Airflow can be restricted by objects such as furniture, toys and other objects. Blocked ducts can affect both the airflow and efficiency of the system.
The blocked ducts can also cause uneven cooling and heating as well as a significant issue in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.
If a homeowner believes they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easy to access, since this will affect the speed with which the technician can get to work and the overall cost of the job.
Mold
Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid atmosphere in which mold spores thrive. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout the home which causes allergic reactions in household members.
The presence of mold around vents is an indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area appears slimy or wet, it’s a clear sign that there is a serious problem. A musty odor is another indication of mold.
Mold can also be detected by torn or damaged air insulation in ducts, tears on the vent covers, rodent droppings and cockroach shells. If the mold problem is serious, you could see rotting wooden and falling metal.
The most common kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys which can cause toxic mold. It is commonly found on wood and drywall surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat and respiratory problems.
The signs of mold in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing, and breath shortness. The symptoms may be more severe in children and older. Mold in air ducts may also trigger nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
It is advised that homeowners avoid attempting to clean large areas of mold. This is due to the security concerns that come with. Mold spores spread throughout the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of once they’ve begun to grow. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and keep it from returning. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.
To avoid mold growth in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts once every couple of years. Taking these steps will keep humidity and condensation out which can promote the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can make summertime activities miserable, leaving you with itchy eyes, swollen noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens in order to combat allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for things that trigger allergy symptoms.
Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can be tracked to your Fridley house on clothing or shoes and then sprayed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork can allow these particles to pass through, and they’ll be circulated throughout the home.
A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is a great way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaner will remove these particles, helping you to breathe more comfortably and ward off your allergies.
A dirty air duct may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergies, especially those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are transmitted when air passes through your ducts, and then into the vents inside your home.
When ducts are filthy, bacteria may build up within them and circulate throughout your home when you turn on your air cooling. This can lead to respiratory issues and can cause more serious illnesses in some cases.
Many people, especially in the spring and early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their clothing and shoes. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these types of substances and they’re more likely to settle in places that will not be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens could remain in the vents until your cooling and heating system is turned on.
Dirty air ducts are a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy bills, as well as uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts as well as sealing any leaky ducts with an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians use a pressurized sealant to stop air from entering through ductwork that is leaky.