How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts are a great place to collect debris, including dust, mildew and even mold. The contaminants are then recirculated throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you smell an unpleasant odor, it may be time to schedule a cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts are nearly robust and rustproof, boosting energy efficiency. Flexible aluminum ducts are inexpensive and squeeze into tight spaces, but they are prone to pest damage.
Leaks
Leaks in ducts can cause conditioned air to escape, which can lower the efficiency of energy in homes. Leaks usually occur at the point where duct segments join particularly at joints. These sections may split and become loose in time because of gravity or age, as well as other factors. The sealing of these connections using metal tape or mastic will help prevent air loss however, it’s recommended to employ an HVAC expert to carry out extensive repairs and to insulate the ducts.
Find indications of leaks in the ducts in your attic or crawlspace where ductwork is exposed. Look for areas of ducts that appear bent, crushed or kinked. This could indicate an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Check to see whether the joints or seams are warm. Pay attention to whistling sound that occurs when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, leaks in the duct probably exist in that area.
Another sign of leaky ducts is unidentified hot or cold spots within the home. Since air leaks deprive the HVAC system of its ability to cool or warm specific rooms, this issue may explain why these rooms are difficult to keep at an even temperature.
The ductwork’s gaps can spread dust throughout the building, even when household activities aren’t changing. They can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in family members by circulating dust mites, mold spores and other allergens that can be found in living areas.
Leaking ducts could release toxic fumes and dust into the living space. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance, leaking ductwork can send these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to the fumes. This problem is especially dangerous if you have elderly or children in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor will detect the presence of these gases and warn you of their presence.
High Humidity
In humid, hot climates such as Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a serious problem as sweaty ducts permit 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 used in your home. Reduce the amount of water you use for bathing, cooking and aquariums. In addition, the homeowner should use a dehumidifier in humid climates to make the house drier.
It’s also important to periodically check the ductwork for indications of mold or other problems. If there are problems, the ducts should be cleaned and sealed by professionals.
Another problem that is often encountered with ductwork is leakage. This is usually due to joint seals that are not properly installed which can cause gaps and cracks. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that all joints and connections are correctly installed and using top-quality materials such as metal.
Air ducts are made of various materials. Each kind has its own distinct characteristics that determine how well they perform. Polyester air ducts are least expensive, but they have the least life span and are susceptible to being damaged by pests and the elements. Ducts made from aluminum are a little more expensive however they last longer and can resist insects.
Another problem with ducts is that they may be blocked by toys, furniture and other items which can impede airflow. Blocked ducts will affect the airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy consumption.
A blocked duct can also lead to uneven cooling and heating, which can be an issue for 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 professional will assess the ductwork and suggest any repairs or replacements needed. It is essential that the ductwork be easily accessible, as it will impact the speed and at what cost the professional can finish the job.
Mold
The warm and humid temperatures combine to cause mold to develop in air conditioning ducts. The moisture is brought on by condensation inside the air ducts. This creates a climate that is moist and conducive to mold growth. The spores then get circulated through your HVAC system throughout your home which causes allergic reactions in household members.
Signs of mold on the surface around the air vents are an indicator that you must employ an HVAC professional for an AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black are usually an indication of the growth of mold. If the area appears to be wet or slimy, then it’s a clear indicator that there is a serious issue. A musty odor is another indication of mold.
It is also possible to detect mold by torn or ripped air duct insulation, rips on vent covers rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the issue is severe, then you may even notice decaying wood and the metal is sagging.
Stachybotrys is the most frequent mold that is found in air ducts. This mold can produce toxic mold. It can develop on the wood and drywall surfaces as well as in the spaces between the walls and rafters of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation, allergies to the throat, nose and eyes, as well respiratory issues.
The signs of mold in air ducts can include wheezing, coughing, and a shortness of breath. Symptoms can be more severe in children and the older. Mold in air ducts may cause nausea headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
Homeowners can clean small areas of mold within their air ducts. However, it is not recommended to try to clean large areas of mold. The safety concerns involved are the reason for this. Mold spores spread quickly through the air and are difficult to eradicate once they begin growing. There is also no guarantee that the home owner has successfully removed all of the mold and stopped it from returning. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and ensure that it does not return.
The best way to avoid mold in air ducts is to ensure that the air filters are cleaned regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every couple of years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture which could encourage the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can halt your summer activities, leaving you with itchy, runny eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Maintaining a clean home is a vital part of fighting allergies. Moreover, the air conditioning ducts in your home can be a breeding ground for the triggers that cause your symptoms.
Pollen, dust mites mold spores and pet dander are all common allergies triggers. These particles can be carried into your Fridley home on clothes or shoes, and then scattered throughout the house by your HVAC system. Leaks in your ductwork may allow these particles to pass through and then be recirculated all over the house.
The best method to fight the allergens that cause you to suffer is a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaning service can eliminate these particles, allowing you breathe better and ward off your allergies.
A duct that is dirty could also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can make your sick and worsen allergy symptoms. These bacteria are spread by the air that passes through your ducts into the vents of your home.
When ducts are filthy the bacteria may build up in them and be circulated throughout your home once the air conditioner is turned on. This can cause respiratory issues and, in some instances more serious illnesses.
During the spring and early summer, a lot of people carry allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites on their shoes and clothing. This is the worst time of year for these types of substances and they’re more likely to settle in places that aren’t disturbed until the following spring or summer. Air ducts are among those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain in the air vents until you switch on your cooling or heating system.
Air ducts that are dirty can cause many problems for homeowners, including higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Aeroseal can assist you in avoiding these issues by cleaning your ducts regularly and sealing any leaky ones. Aeroseal technicians will apply a sealant that is pressurized to stop air from entering through leaky ductwork.