How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts can collect dust, mildew and mold growth, and other debris. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you notice an unpleasant odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency due to their durable and nearly rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts can be used in tight spaces and are affordable. However they are prone to damage from pests.
Leaks
Duct leaks allow conditioned air to escape the system, and can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks are commonplace at the point where duct segments meet, especially at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. Sealing these connections can help prevent air leakage. However, it’s best to hire a professional HVAC technician to make extensive repairs and to insulate your ducts.
Look for indications of leaks in the ducts in your crawlspace or attic where ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked which indicates blockage and need to be sealed. Feel along the seams and joints to determine if they’re hot. Pay attention to any whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks could be present in that area.
Unexplained hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaking duct. This is because air leaks could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating specific rooms.
The ductwork’s gaps can allow dust to circulate throughout the building even when the household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can cause asthma and allergies in family members.
In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also spread toxic fumes into the living space. Leaking ductwork for instance could expose your family to harmful fumes when you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This is particularly dangerous for elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect the presence of these gases and warn you about their presence.
High Humidity
In humid, hot climates such as Florida, air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should. This is a serious problem as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture to get into homes, which can lead to mold growth and poor air quality. Fortunately, there are many steps homeowners can take to reduce humidity and keep their ductwork dry.
The first thing to do is reduce the use of water in the home as much as is possible. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In addition, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity to help make the home drier.
It is also crucial to inspect the ductwork regularly for signs of mold or other issues. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts in the event of issues.
Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. It is usually the result of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals that can cause cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is by ensuring all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials such as metal.
Air ducts are made of different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that determine how well they perform. The least expensive air ducts, made of polyester, have the least lifespan and are more prone to being damaged by pests and elements. Ducts made from aluminum are slightly more expensive however they last longer and can be resistant to insects.
Airflow can be impeded by furniture, toys and other objects. A blocked duct can affect airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy usage.
The blocked ducts can also cause uneven heating and cooling in older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.
If a homeowner suspects they are suffering from leakage or humidity should contact an HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork is accessible to access, since this will affect the speed with which the technician can get to work and the overall cost of the project.
Mold
Mold in air conditioning ducts can happen when two things come together: moisture and warm temperatures. The moisture is brought on by condensation in the air ducts. This creates an environment that is moist and a perfect environment for mold growth. The spores then get circulated by your HVAC system throughout your home, causing allergy symptoms among household members.
The visible signs of mold around the air vents are an indicator that you must hire an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area appears damp or slimy then there is an issue. If there is a musty odor it is also an indication of a mold infestation.
Mold can also be detected by torn or damaged air duct insulation, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the mold issue is serious, you could observe decaying wood or sliding metal.
The most frequent type of mold in air ducts is Stachybotrys that can result in toxic mold. It is usually found on wood and drywall surfaces, but it can also be found in the spaces between the rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes, as well respiratory issues.
The symptoms of mold that can be found in air ducts include wheezing, coughing, and a shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more severe in children and elderly. Mold in air ducts can also cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.
It is recommended homeowners not to attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the main reason. 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 remove all the mold and prevent it from recurring. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t recur.
The best way to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are cleaned regularly and that the ducts are cleaned once every few years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture which can promote the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can halt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, swollen eyes and a general feeling discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens to fight allergies. Your air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for things that trigger allergy symptoms.
Dust mites, pollen, mold spores and pet dander are all typical allergies triggers. These particles can be transported into your Fridley house on shoes or clothing and then dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may let these particles pass through and be circulated throughout the house.
The best way to combat the allergens that cause you to suffer is a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and help you breathe more easily.
A duct that is dirty could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergies, especially if you have allergies already. The bacteria can spread when the air moves through your ducts, and then into the vents of your home.
If the ducts are dirty, bacteria can build up within them, and later be spread throughout your home once the air conditioner is on. This can lead to respiratory issues and can result in more serious illness in some cases.
In the spring and early summer months, many people bring in allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. This is the most unpleasant time of year to deal with these types of substances, and they’re likely to be settling in areas where they won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are an excellent example. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the vents until your cooling and heating system is switched on.
Dirty air ducts pose an issue for homeowners. They can result in higher energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these problems by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians will apply a sealant that is pressurized to block air from entering through ductwork that has been leaking.