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When people think about central heating and air conditioning, they often overlook the ductwork and vents as potential problem points. But dirty and leaky vents may be putting your family’s health at risk. 

Maintaining your AC system involves not only the unit itself but also the ductwork that distributes cool air throughout your home. Sealing leaky ducts and cleaning your ducts and vents can significantly improve your system’s efficiency and air quality and reduce energy bills. 

If your family has constant allergies or other health issues, your AC ductwork may be the culprit.

So what can you do about it?

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get your ducts in a row (sorry).

Identifying Leaky Ducts

Leaky ducts can cause significant energy loss and reduce your AC system’s efficiency. Identifying these leaks is the first step in maintaining an efficient system.

Steps to Locate Leaks:

1. 1. Turn on the AC: Feel along the ductwork for any escaping air.
   2. Visual Inspection: Look for visible gaps, disconnected joints, and worn-out tape.
   3. Smoke Test: Use a smoke pencil or an incense stick to detect less obvious leaks. Hold it near the ductwork and watch for any smoke that gets blown around, indicating a leak.

Sealing Leaky Ducts

Once you’ve identified the leaks, sealing them is a straightforward process that can drastically improve your system’s performance.

Materials Needed: Mastic sealant, foil-backed duct tape, paintbrush.

Steps to Seal Leaks:

1. 1. Turn Off the AC: Ensure safety by turning off the unit before starting.
   2. Clean the Area: Wipe down the area around the leaks to ensure good adhesion.
   3. Apply Mastic Sealant: Use a paintbrush to apply mastic sealant over gaps and joints.
   4. Use Foil-Backed Duct Tape: For larger gaps, apply foil-backed duct tape before sealing with mastic.
   5. Let it Dry: Allow the sealant to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before turning the AC back on.

Sealing these leaks will help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home and improve overall energy efficiency.

Cleaning Your AC Ducts

Clean ducts are essential for good air quality and efficient cooling. Dust and debris can build up over time, reducing airflow and forcing your system to work harder.

Materials Needed: Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment, microfiber cloth, screwdriver, ladder.

Steps to Clean Ducts:

1. 1. Turn Off the AC: Ensure the unit is off before starting.
   2. Remove Vent Covers: Use a screwdriver to remove the vent covers.
   3. Vacuum Inside Ducts: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the inside of the ducts.
   4. Wipe Down Ducts: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the ducts.
   5. Clean Vent Covers: Wash vent covers with soap and water, then dry completely.
   6. Reassemble: Reattach the vent covers and turn the AC back on.

Regular cleaning of your ducts can prevent dust and allergens from circulating in your home, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Cleaning Vents and Registers

Dirty vents and registers can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Regular cleaning can help maintain optimal airflow.

Steps to Clean Vents and Registers:

1. 1. Turn Off the AC: Ensure the unit is off before starting.
   2. Remove Registers: Use a screwdriver to remove the registers.
   3. Vacuum Registers: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the registers.
   4. Wash Registers: Wash the registers with soap and water, then dry completely.
   5. Clean Around Vent Openings: Use a vacuum to clean around the vent openings.
   6. Reassemble: Reattach the registers and turn the AC back on.

Clean vents ensure that air flows freely and efficiently throughout your home.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Ductwork

• • Regular Inspections: Regularly check your ductwork for new leaks and seal them as needed.
  • Professional Cleaning: Schedule professional duct cleaning every few years for thorough maintenance.
  • Proper Insulation: Ensure your ducts are properly insulated to prevent energy loss.
  • High-Efficiency Filters: Consider installing high-efficiency filters to keep your ducts cleaner for longer.

When Was The Last Time Your Ducts Were Cleaned?

Sealing leaky ducts and cleaning your AC ducts and vents are crucial steps in maintaining an efficient and healthy air conditioning system. These actions can improve your system’s performance, reduce energy bills, and enhance air quality in your home. 

Start with a simple inspection and DIY cleaning, and don’t hesitate to contact us for more extensive ductwork needs. You can schedule a professional inspection on our website or call us at 813-395-5980.