How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other particles. The contaminants are then spread throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it could be the time to schedule a clean.
Sheet metal ducts are nearly rustproof and durable, promoting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are cheap and fit into tight spaces, but they are prone to pest damage.
Leaks
Leaks in ducts can cause the conditioned air to escape which can lower the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks usually occur where duct segments meet particularly at joints. These sections may split and become loose over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections with metal tape or mastic can help prevent air loss However, it is recommended to employ an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to insulate 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. Look for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed, which indicate blockage and need to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sounds when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks probably exist in that area.
Another indication of a leaking duct is unexplained hot or cold spots throughout the house. This is because air leaks could stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.
Even when the household activities remain the same, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout a structure. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens can trigger asthma and allergies in family members.
In addition to distributing dust, leaking ducts may also spread toxic fumes into the living area. If you keep paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for example leaky ductwork could send these chemicals into your living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This problem is especially dangerous when you have elderly or children in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor to detect dangerous gases and alert you to their presence in the air.
High Humidity
In humid, hot climates like Florida, air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a problem because the ducts that sweat allow excessive moisture into homes, which could cause a variety of problems, including mold growth and poor indoor air quality. There are several things that homeowners can do to lower humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.
First, limit the amount of water used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for cooking, bathing and aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners should also make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home dryer.
It’s also important to regularly inspect the ductwork for signs of mold or other issues. If there are problems, the ducts should be cleaned and sealed by professionals.
Leakage is another issue that can be found when it comes to ductwork. It is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly, which can cause gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and making sure that all joints and connections are correctly installed.
Air ducts are available in various materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that can influence the performance of these ducts. The cheapest air ducts made of polyester, have the least life expectancy and are more vulnerable to damage caused by insects and elements. Ducts made of aluminum are a bit more expensive however they last longer and repel insects.
Another issue with ducts is they can become blocked by furniture, toys and other items which can impede airflow. A blocked duct can affect airflow and energy efficiency of your system.
A blocked duct can also result in uneven heating and cooling in older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.
If a homeowner suspects they have a humidity or leakage issue, they should call an experienced HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make suggestions for any repairs or replacements. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, since this will impact how quickly and at what cost the expert can complete the task.
Mold
Warm temperatures and moisture can combine to cause mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid atmosphere in which the mold spores thrive. The spores can then be distributed throughout the house through your HVAC system and cause allergic symptoms in household members.
The presence of mold around the vents is a good indication that you should employ an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be an indication that mold is thriving. If the area appears to be slimy or wet, it’s a clear indicator that there is a major problem. If there is a musty odor it is also an indication of a mold problem.
Mold can also be detected by torn or ripped air insulation for ducts, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroaches 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 cause toxic mold. It can develop on the wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritation to the eyes and throat, as well as respiratory problems.
The air ducts that are contaminated by mold can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breathe. The symptoms can be more severe in children and elderly. The air ducts in the air can also cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
Homeowners can clean small areas of mold from their air ducts, but it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. This is because of the safety issues involved. Mold spores are spread through the air quickly and are difficult to get rid of after they have begun to grow. There is no guarantee the homeowner will be able to remove all the mold and keep it from recurring. A professional can safely eliminate mold in air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.
To avoid mold growth in air ducts, make sure that you change the air filters regularly and clean the ducts once every few years. These steps can help to stop moisture and condensation, which can encourage the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can halt your summer activities and leave you with itchy, runny eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Keep your home free of allergens to combat allergies. The air conditioning ducts are a breeding ground for things that trigger your allergy symptoms.
Allergy causes include dust mites mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can get transported into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes and later scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house due to ductwork leaks.
The best method to fight these allergens is to do an extensive cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will eliminate these particles and help you breathe more comfortably.
A clogged air duct could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can make your sick and worsen your allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts into your home’s vents.
If the ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up inside them and then be circulated around your entire home, especially when the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and could lead to more serious illnesses in certain cases.
Many people, especially in the spring and the early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes, on their shoes and clothing. These allergens are more likely to settle in places that won’t be disturbed until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime example. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your heating and cooling system is turned on.
Clean air ducts can cause numerous problems for homeowners, including increased energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these problems can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. An Aeroseal technician will apply the duct sealant with a pressurized system to prevent air from getting into your home through leaky ductwork.