How to Keep Your Air Conditioning Ductwork Clean
Air ducts can accumulate debris, such as dust, mildew and mold. These contaminants are then circulated throughout the home. If your allergies are getting worse or you are smelling an unpleasant odor, it may be the time to schedule a clean.
Sheet metal ducts increase energy efficiency since they are robust and almost rustproof. Flexible aluminum ducts can be utilized in tight spaces and are inexpensive. However they are susceptible to damage by pests.
Leaks
Duct leaks allow air conditioning to escape from the system, and they can significantly decrease a home’s energy efficiency. Leaks are most prevalent at the point where duct segments meet in particular at joints. These sections can separate and loosen over time because of gravity, age and other factors. Sealing these connections with mastic or metal tape can aid in preventing air loss However, it is recommended to hire an HVAC professional to complete the repairs and to insulate the ducts.
Check for indications of leaks in the ducts in your attic or crawlspace where the ductwork is exposed. Look for areas where the ducts are crushed or kinked that indicate obstruction and should be sealed. Examine the seams and joints to determine if they’re warm. Be aware of any whistling sound when the HVAC system runs. If you hear these sounds, then duct leaks could be present in that area.
Another indication of leaky ducts is the presence of hot or cold spots in the home. Since air leaks rob the HVAC system of its ability to cool or heat specific rooms, this issue may be the reason for these spaces to be difficult to maintain an even temperature.
In addition, ductwork gaps can spread dust throughout the house even if household activities aren’t changing. Dust mites, mould spores and other allergens may cause asthma and allergies in family members.
Leaking ducts can release toxic fumes and dust into the living area. Leaking ductwork, for example, can expose your family to fumes when you store pesticides or paint thinners in your basement. This is particularly dangerous for elderly or children in your home. A professional can install an indoor air quality monitor that can detect dangerous fumes and warn you of their presence in the air.
High Humidity
In hot, humid climates like Florida air conditioning ducts sweat more than they ought to. This is a major 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 keep the 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. Additionally homeowners should consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates to help make the home dry.
It is also essential to regularly check the ductwork for indications of mold or other problems. Professionals should clean and seal ducts when they notice any problems.
Leakage is another issue that can be found when it comes to ductwork. This is usually due to improperly installed seals or joints that can lead to gaps and cracks. This can be prevented by using top-quality metals and by ensuring that all joints and connections are correctly installed.
Air ducts can be found in various materials. Each kind has its own unique characteristics that affect the way they perform. The least expensive air ducts made of polyester, have the least time to live and are more vulnerable to damage caused by pests and other elements. Aluminum ducts are more expensive, but last longer and are resistant to insects.
Another issue with ducts is that they can become blocked by furniture, toys, and other objects, which restricts airflow. A blocked duct can affect airflow and efficiency of your system’s energy usage.
A blocked duct can also lead to uneven heating and cooling as well as an issue for older buildings that have poorly designed ductwork.
If a homeowner suspects that they are suffering from a leakage or humidity issue, they should contact an experienced HVAC service. The professional will inspect the ductwork, and make recommendations for any repairs or replacements. It is crucial that the ductwork is easy to access, as this could affect the speed at which the technician can get to work and also the total cost of the project.
Mold
Moisture and warm temperatures can combine to cause mold to air conditioning ducts. The moisture comes from condensation on the inside of the air ducts, which creates a moist environment in which the mold spores thrive. The spores are then circulated through your HVAC system throughout the home and cause allergic reactions among household members.
The presence of mold around vents is a clear indication that you should hire an expert HVAC for AC cleaning. Black dust particles are often an indication of the growth of mold. If the area looks slimy or wet, it is a clear indication that there is a significant issue. If there is a musty smell, this is also an indication of a mold spore.
Mold can also be identified by torn or damaged air duct insulation, rips on the vent covers, rodent droppings, and cockroach shells. If the issue is severe it could be that you observe decaying wood or sliding metal.
Stachybotrys is the most common mold that is found in air ducts. The mold can cause toxic mold. It can grow on drywall and wood surfaces and also in the spaces between the walls and rafters in your home. Stachybotrys may cause irritation to the nose, throat, and eyes, as well as respiratory problems.
Mold in the air ducts can cause wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. The symptoms may be more than in children and the older. The air ducts in the air can cause nausea, headaches and fatigue.
It is advised homeowners not to attempt to remove large areas of mold. This is because of the security concerns that come with. Mold spores are quickly spread across the air and are very difficult to get rid of once they begin growing. There is no assurance that the homeowner will be able remove all the mold and keep it from recurring. A professional can safely remove mold in air ducts and guarantee that it does not recur.
The best method to avoid mold in air ducts is to ensure that the air filters are changed regularly and that the ducts are cleaned every few years. Taking these steps will prevent condensation and humidity which can trigger the growth of mold.
Allergens
Allergies can make your summertime activities miserable and leave you with itchy eyes, runny noses, and a general feeling of discomfort. Make sure your home is free of allergens to fight allergies. The air conditioning ducts can be an ideal habitat for allergens that trigger your allergic symptoms.
Dust mites, pollen, mold spores and pet dander are all typical allergy triggers. These particles can be tracked into your Fridley house on clothes or shoes and later dispersed throughout your home by your HVAC system. These particles can be spread throughout the house by leaks in the ductwork.
The best way to fight these allergens is to do a thorough cleaning of your air ducts. A professional duct cleaner can remove the particles, allowing you breathe better and ward off your allergies.
A duct that is dirty may also be a source of bacteria. Bacteria can cause you to be sick and worsen your allergies. The bacteria can be spread through the air that passes through your ducts and into the vents of your home.
When ducts become dirty, bacteria can build up inside and be circulated throughout your home whenever you turn on the air conditioner. This can cause respiratory problems and could lead to more serious illnesses in some cases.
In the spring and early summer months, many people carry allergens such as mold, pollen and dust mites on their clothes and shoes. These allergens are more likely to be deposited in areas which won’t be re-infested until the following spring or summer. The air ducts are a prime example. If they are not cleaned regularly, allergens can remain in the vents until your cooling and heating system is switched on.
Dirty air ducts pose a major issue for homeowners. They can lead to higher energy bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Fortunately, these issues can be avoided by regularly cleaning your ducts and by sealing any leaky ducts by using an Aeroseal company. Aeroseal technicians employ a pressurized sealant to prevent air from getting through ductwork that has been leaking.
