The process of sealing air ducts is subject to strict health and safety regulations, but there are still potential risks to consider. The most common health hazard associated with air duct sealing is exposure to the chemicals used during the process. Depending on the type of sealant used, these chemicals may linger in the air for several days after installation and can cause respiratory irritation or other adverse reactions. People with asthma or allergies may also be affected by sealant vapors.
Cleaning your air ducts is a great way to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergic reactions. Before you can properly seal air ducts, it's important to understand the common causes of air leaks so that you can address them accordingly. High relative humidity or condensation is an indication that mold may form in any type of duct. To ensure that the air ducts are properly sealed, you'll need some basic tools and materials, such as a putty sealant, aluminum-coated tape, or metallized tape.
Duct cleaning is not a mandatory part of annual maintenance for your heating and cooling system, but air duct sealing can prevent air leaks, improve indoor air quality, and reduce dust accumulation in the home. Regular inspections are necessary to maintain optimal air quality throughout the system. Sealing must be done regularly, usually every three years, to maintain optimal performance in terms of efficiency and comfort levels within the home. Properly sealing air ducts is essential to avoid costly repairs and minimize the health risks associated with airborne contaminants entering your home.
Moisture can enter the duct system through leaks or if the system has been improperly installed or maintained. Pollutants that enter the home from both outdoor and indoor activities can cause greater exposure to pollutants than dirty air ducts. This means that, if the air ducts are properly sealed, homes may have lower monthly utility bills since less energy would be needed to produce the desired temperatures inside the property. Regardless of the type of system chosen, it is important that all joints between the different sections are securely sealed.
It is important to prepare properly, identify the type of air ducts present in the home, and obtain the necessary tools before starting this service. Some service providers may also suggest applying chemical treatments (sealants or other encapsulants) to encapsulate or cover the inner surfaces of air ducts and equipment housings because they believe this will control mold growth or prevent dirt particles or fibers from being released from the ducts.
