How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts are a great place to collect dust, mildew, mold growth, and other debris. These pollutants are then distributed throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse, or you notice an unpleasant odor, it might be time to schedule a cleaning.
Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency due to their sturdy and virtually impervious to rust. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are affordable. However, they are susceptible to damage by pests.
Leaks
Duct leaks permit conditioned air to escape the system. They can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent where duct segments join particularly at joints. The ducts can split and loosen in time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections will help to keep air from leaking. However, it’s recommended to employ a professional HVAC technician to carry out extensive repairs and insulate your ducts.
Find indications of leaks in ducts in your attic or crawlspace where ductwork is exposed. Check for areas of ducts that are bent, crushed, or twisted. This indicates an obstruction that needs to be sealed. Verify whether the joints or seams are warm. Pay attention to whistling sounds that happen when the HVAC system is operating. If you hear these sounds, duct leaks are likely to be present in the area.
Unexplained hot and cold spots are another indication of a leaking pipe. This is because air leaks can stop the HVAC system from cooling or heating certain rooms.
Even when the household activities are not affected, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout a structure. They can cause asthma and allergies in family members due to the circulating dust mold spores, mites and other allergens that can be found in living spaces.
Leaking ducts can spread toxic fumes as well as dust into the living area. If you store paint thinners or pesticides in your basement, for instance leaky ductwork could release these chemicals into the living space and expose your loved ones to fumes. This risk is particularly threatening if you have children or elderly people living in your home. Installing an indoor air monitor can detect these fumes and warn you of their presence.
High Humidity
In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they should. This is a major issue, as sweaty ducts allow excessive moisture to enter homes which can cause mold growth and poor air quality. There are a variety of things homeowners can do to lower humidity and ensure that ductwork is dry.
The first step is to reduce the use of water in the home as much as is possible. This includes reducing the amount of water used for cooking, bathing, and decorations like aquariums. In humid climates, homeowners must make use of a dehumidifier to keep their home drier.
It is also crucial to check the ductwork on a regular basis for signs of mold and other issues. If there are problems the ducts must be cleaned and sealed by an expert.
Another issue that is common to ductwork is leakage. Usually, this happens because of joints that have been installed incorrectly or seals, which can result in cracks and gaps. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that all joints and connections are properly installed, and using high-quality materials like metal.
Air ducts can be found in different materials. Each type has its own characteristics that affect the performance of these ducts. The least expensive air ducts, made of polyester, have the lowest time to live and are more susceptible to being damaged by pests and elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive but last longer and can resist insects.
Airflow may be limited by objects such as furniture, toys, and other objects. The blocked ducts can impact the airflow and efficiency of the system.
A blocked duct can also cause uneven heating and cooling, which can be an issue for older buildings with poorly designed ductwork.
If a homeowner suspects they have a problem with humidity or leakage should contact a HVAC service. The expert will examine the ductwork and make recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easily accessible, since this will impact how quickly and at what cost the expert can complete the job.
Mold
Mold in air conditioning ducts can occur when two factors come together such as warm temperatures and moisture. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts which creates a humid environment where the spores of mold thrive. The spores are then circulated by your HVAC system throughout your home and cause allergic reactions among household members.
Visual signs of mold around air vents are a good indicator that you need to engage an HVAC professional for AC cleaning. Dust particles that are black could be a sign that mold is thriving. If the area appears slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a serious problem. If there is a musty odor, this is also an indication of a mold infestation.
Other signs of a mold problem in your air ducts could be ripped or torn insulation, tears in the vent covers rodent droppings, the cockroach shells. If the mold issue is severe, you may see rotting wooden and falling metal.
Stachybotrys is the most prevalent mold that is found in air ducts. The mold can cause toxic mold. It is typically found on drywall and wood surfaces, but can also develop in the spaces between rafters and walls of your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation to the throat, nose, and eyes, as well respiratory issues.
The signs of mold in air ducts include coughing, wheezing and a shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more than in children and the older. Air ducts that are contaminated with mold can also cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.
It is recommended that homeowners do not attempt to clean large areas of mold. The safety issues involved are the main reason. Mold spores can spread quickly through the air and are very difficult to eliminate once they begin growing. In addition, there is no guarantee that the home owner has successfully eliminated all the mold and prevented it from resurfacing. A professional can safely remove the mold from air ducts, and ensure that it doesn’t return.
To stop the growth of mold in air ducts, make sure to change the air filters frequently and clean the ducts every few years. These steps will prevent condensation and moisture which can promote the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can ruin your summer activities that leave you with itchy, swollen eyes, and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be a breeding ground for things that trigger allergy symptoms.
Pollen, dust mites mold spores and pet dander are all common allergy triggers. These particles can be transported into your Fridley home via clothes or shoes, and then dispersed throughout the house by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house by ductwork leaks.
A thorough cleaning of the air ducts is the most effective way to fight allergies. A professional duct cleaning service can remove these particles and let you breathe more easily.
A dirty air duct may also harbor bacteria. Bacteria can cause illness and trigger allergy symptoms, especially when you already suffer from allergies. The bacteria can be spread when the air moves through your ducts and into the vents of your home.
When ducts are dirty the bacteria may build up in them and be spread throughout your home when the air conditioner is turned on. This can lead to respiratory issues and, in some cases more serious illnesses.
Many people, especially in the spring and the early summer months bring allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites into their homes on their clothing and shoes. These allergens are likely to settle in places which won’t be re-infested until the next spring or summer. Air ducts are one of those areas, and when they’re not cleaned regularly the allergens will remain in your air vents until you switch on your cooling or heating system.
Air ducts that are dirty can cause many problems for homeowners, including 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. An Aeroseal technician will employ a pressurized duct sealant to stop air from entering your home through leaky ductwork.
