How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts can accumulate particles, including dust, mildew and mold. These pollutants are then spread throughout the house. If you notice that your allergies are getting worse or if you notice a bad odor, then it’s time to schedule a house cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts boost energy efficiency since they are durable and nearly completely rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts are affordable and squeeze into tight spaces, however they are prone to damage by pests.
Leaks
Duct leaks allow conditioned air to escape the system. They can dramatically reduce a house’s energy efficiency. Leaks usually occur where duct segments meet, especially at joints. The ducts can split and become loose over time because of gravity and age, among other things. Sealing these connections can stop air leakage. However, it is recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to do extensive repairs and seal your ducts.
Look for indications of leaks in the ducts in your attic or crawlspace where ductwork is exposed. Check for areas where the ducts are kinked or crushed which indicates blockage and require to be sealed. Examine the joints and seams to determine if they’re warm. Also, pay attention to any whistling sound when the HVAC system is running. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct probably exist in that area.
Unexplained hot and cold spots are another sign of a leaky duct. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat certain rooms, this could explain why those spaces are difficult to keep at a consistent temperature.
Even when the household activities are not affected, ductwork gaps can distribute dust throughout a structure. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members by circulating dust mold spores, mites, and other allergens in living spaces.
Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes as well as dust into the living space. Leaking ductwork, for example could expose your family members to fumes when you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This issue is particularly dangerous if children or elderly adults live in the home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect these fumes, and warn you of their presence.
High Humidity
In humid and hot climates like Florida air conditioning ducts are more likely sweat than they should be. This is a serious issue as sweaty ducts permit excessive moisture to get into homes and cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are many things homeowners can do to reduce humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.
First, reduce the amount of water that is used in your home. This means reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing, and for decorations such as aquariums. In addition, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the home more dry.
It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other issues. Professionals should clean and seal the ducts if there are any issues.
Leakage is a common issue in ductwork. This is usually caused by joints or seals that have been installed incorrectly which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed and made of high-quality materials such as metal.
Air ducts come in a variety of materials, and each has distinct characteristics that affect the way they function. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they are the most brittle and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests as well as the elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are more resistant to insects.
Another issue with ducts is they are often blocked by toys, furniture and other items which can impede airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow as well as the efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.
The blocked ducts can also cause uneven cooling and heating as well as an issue for older buildings with poorly constructed ductwork.
A homeowner who suspects they have a problem with leakage or humidity should call a HVAC service. The expert will evaluate the ductwork and recommend any repairs or replacements needed. It’s crucial that the ductwork be easily accessible, since it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can complete the task.
Mold
Mold in air conditioning ducts could occur when two factors come together that is, warm temperatures and moisture. The condensation causes the moisture on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a moist environment where the spores of mold thrive. The spores then get distributed throughout the house through your HVAC system, and trigger allergy symptoms in household members.
Signs of mold on the surface around the air vents are an indication that you should employ an HVAC expert for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually a sign of mold growth. If the area appears wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a significant problem. If there is a musty scent it is also an indication of a mold problem.
Other signs of a mold problem in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, rips in the vent covers rodent droppings, cockroach shells. If the problem is severe you could notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.
The most popular kind of mold found in air ducts is Stachybotrys, which can produce toxic mold. It is typically found on drywall and wood surfaces but can also grow in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys may cause allergies, irritated eyes, nose and throat and respiratory problems.
The signs of mold in air ducts include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Children and the elderly can have more severe symptoms. Mold in air ducts may cause nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
Homeowners can clean small areas of mold from their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to clean any large patches of mold. The safety concerns are the reason. Mold spores 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 remove all the mold and stop it from returning. A professional can safely take away the mold from the air ducts and ensure that it doesn’t return.
The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to make sure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned once every couple of years. These steps will help stop moisture and condensation, which can encourage the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can make your summertime activities difficult and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses and a general sense of discomfort. Keeping your home allergen-free is a vital part of fighting allergies. Moreover, the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding ground for the things that cause your symptoms.
Allergy triggers include dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. These particles can be tracked the Fridley home on shoes or clothing and then sprayed throughout your home by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to sneak through, and they’ll be circulated all over the house.
The best method to fight these allergens is with a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service will remove these particles and help you breathe more easily.
A clogged air duct could also contain bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergies. These bacteria are spread by the air that passes through your ducts and into the vents of your home.
When ducts are filthy bacteria can grow within them, and later be spread throughout your home when the air conditioner is on. This can cause respiratory issues and in certain cases more serious ailments.
Many people, especially in the spring and the early summer months, bring allergens such as pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes through their shoes and clothing. These allergens are more likely to be deposited in areas that won’t be disturbed until the next spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime illustration. If they’re not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the ducts until your cooling and heating system is turned on.
Air ducts that are dirty can cause many problems for homeowners, including higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can help you avoid these problems by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. An Aeroseal technician will apply a pressurized duct sealant to stop air from entering your home through ductwork that is leaky.