Keeping your air conditioning ductwork free of water and dirt might allow you to breathe cleaner air inside your home. Whether you hire a professional or handle it yourself, several easy duct maintenance techniques will help decrease air vent decay. It will help keep everyone healthy and breathing fresh, clean air.
The primary goal of air duct maintenance is to keep moisture out of the ducts in the first place. That’s when you get condensation on the AC vent or standing water in the air ducts.
Is there a reason why my air vents are wet?
Water accumulation in your air ducts is never healthy. It can encourage the growth of mould, germs, and fungi, which can lead to health concerns. Believe it or not, water in air ducts is not unusual and can be caused by the HVAC system or other factors such as leaking pipes or roof leaks.
According to research, condensation on or near cooling systems’ cooling coils is a significant source of moisture in ducts. Condensation is a natural occurrence when the temperature of the air in the HVAC system is lower than the temperature of the surrounding air.
When operating properly, modern HVAC systems contain capabilities that absorb moisture without damaging the ducting. Improperly installed HVAC systems, improperly serviced systems, and malfunctioning systems can all cause condensation on the air vents to cause damage.
What Happens If Water Enters My Vents?
Air ducts are like your home’s veins; they transport humid and cooled air throughout the structure from and to the HVAC system. Water buildup in the AC unit will drastically impair the home’s indoor air quality and safety. Taking the necessary actions can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars while creating a safe and comfortable living environment.
How to Remove Water from Air Vents
After investigating all possible water sources, rule out options such as over-watering houseplants or a nearby water spill if only one vent has been confirmed faulty. If you are still looking for something, note the weather conditions and the vent. Watch the water in the vent to see if it stays in or flows out.
What are the risks of moisture accumulation?
Mould development is the most serious issue with water inside air ducts. Mould spores can multiply in 48 hours under optimal conditions. The air ducts provide nutrients for a mould epidemic.
Mould spores colonise the air ducts and settle on furniture, carpeting, and clothing, aggravating the indoor mould problem. Indoor air quality suffers.
Aside from mould growth, moisture inside the air ducts can diminish the value of the insulation. Water weakens the insulation over time, making it less effective. As the value of the insulation lessens, homeowners should expect increased electric bills and energy loss.
Finally, moisture inside the air ducts can cause water damage to the walls, ceilings, and roof. High moisture can cause the decay or breakdown of certain materials over time. If left ignored for an extended time, building wear might risk the building’s structural strength.
What options are there for reducing moisture buildup?
Long-term remedies target the cause of the moisture problem located within the air ducts. It is important to repair leaking roofs or water pipes as soon as possible. If the humidifier is set too high, turn it down. Look for sources of moisture and fix them immediately.
If the furnace and dryer vents are clear of leaks and all other systems are in proper operating order, the next step is to place a dehumidifier near locations where condensation accumulates. Moisture inside the ducts lessens when the dehumidifier takes moisture out.
Unwanted moisture is also kept out by sealing off unneeded A/C ducts. Because the dampers are not leak-proof, blocking the supply and return vents is futile. Instead, cut foam board insulation to fit the ducts and insert it inside. Alternatively, cover the ducts with plastic sheeting.
Consider insulating an uninsulated attic. Insulation keeps condensation from forming on cold ducts. The insulation of air ducts can prevent them from chilling and condensing with standard duct insulation. Another method of preventing dampness is to circulate heated air via disused ducts.
Water in the air ducts is risky and requires professional air duct cleaning. Technicians scrub the air with HEPA air scrubbers and hydroxyl or ozone generators to remove germs, mould spores, and lingering odours.
Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned By An Expert
The air purifying process of a professional duct cleaner prevents the HVAC from recirculating mould-contaminated air via the ductwork and into the residence. The method ensures that indoor air quality is excellent and breathable for the occupants of the property.
Wet air ducts can compromise the structural integrity of your property and degrade indoor air quality. When you notice wetness in your air ducts, it is critical to contact a restoration professional. It could be due to a recent flood, condensation, or other factors.
Reztor Restoration Water Damage Repair
Any water damage to your property can be handled by a team of IICRC-certified water damage restoration professionals, like Reztor Restoration. They act fast to prevent water damage from spreading to other residential or commercial property areas.
Their advanced procedures eliminate excessive water by using water extraction equipment. Trained professionals install powerful dehumidifiers and drying equipment to extract moisture trapped in furniture, flooring, and building materials. In addition, they will clean and restore the affected area.
They will engage with your insurance carrier during the claims process after the water damage restoration process is completed, allowing you to focus on other matters. Finally, you can look forward to mould-free air ducts that are clean and dry.
