How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean

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

Sheet metal ducts are nearly resistant to rust and are durable, which can help improve energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and fit into tight spaces, but they are prone to damage from pests.

Leaks

Duct leaks permit air conditioning to escape from the system, and can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks typically occur when duct sections meet, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time as a result of gravity, age and other factors. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic can assist in preventing the loss of air However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to make extensive repairs and insulate the ducts.

You can check for indications of leaks in ducts by conducting an inspection in your basement, attic and crawlspaces where runs of ductwork are exposed. Find areas where ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and require to be sealed. Check the joints and seams to determine if they’re hot. Be aware of any whistling sound when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct are likely to be present in the area.

Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots within the house. This is due to air leaks that could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.

The ductwork’s gaps can spread dust throughout the building even when the household activities haven’t changed. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens in living spaces.

In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also let toxic fumes enter the living area. If you keep paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This risk is particularly threatening for elderly or children living in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect dangerous gasses and alert you of their presence in the air.

High Humidity

In humid, hot climates such as Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a serious issue as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture to get into homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are several 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 to cook, bathe and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home drier.

It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there’s any issue the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by professionals.

Another common problem with ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of joints that are not properly installed or seals, which could lead to gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using high-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections are properly installed.

Air ducts are available in a variety of materials, and each type has different characteristics that can affect how well they perform. Polyester air ducts are the most affordable, however they have the shortest lifespan and are prone to damage from pests and the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and can resist insects.

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

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

If a homeowner believes they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork and make recommendations for any necessary repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is accessible to access, as this can affect how quickly the pro can get to work and the overall cost of the task.

Mold

The warm and humid temperatures create mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is caused by condensation within the air ducts. This creates an environment that is damp and conducive to mold growth. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.

The presence of mold around the vents is a clear indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for cleaning your AC. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area appears slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a significant issue. If there is a musty scent, 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 problem is severe, then you may even observe decaying wood or the metal is sagging.

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

Mold in the air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Children and seniors may have more severe symptoms. Mold in air ducts can also cause headaches, fatigue and nausea.

Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts, however it is not recommended to clean large areas of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able to eliminate all the mold and prevent it from returning. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not return.

To prevent the growth of mold in the air ducts, be sure that you change the air filters regularly and clean the ducts at least once every few years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture, which can encourage the growth of mold.

Allergens

Allergies can disrupt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is a vital part of fighting allergies. Moreover, your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.

Pollen, dust mites mold spores and pet dander are all typical allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked into your Fridley home via clothes or shoes and later dispersed throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to sneak through and be circulated all over the house.

The best method to fight these allergens is to do an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles and help you breathe better.

A dirty air duct can also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and aggravate your allergies, particularly those who already suffer from allergies. These bacteria are spread when the air passes through your ducts, and then into the vents inside your home.

When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioner. This can cause respiratory problems and in some instances more serious ailments.

During 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. This is the worst time of the year to be exposed to these kinds of things, and they’re likely to settle in areas where they will not be disturbed until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are just one of these areas, and if they’re not cleaned regularly, the allergens will stay in your air vents until you switch on your heating or cooling system.

Dirty air ducts can create many problems for homeowners, such as more expensive energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians will apply a sealant that is pressurized to prevent air from getting through ductwork that is leaky.

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