When it comes to performing a duct repair job in Florida, it is essential to be aware of the materials that should be avoided. Cloth-based adhesive tape with a rubber adhesive is often used for temporary repairs in many homes, but it has been known to become brittle and disintegrate over time. This can lead to more unconditioned air entering the system, as much of the dirt in the air ducts adheres to the surfaces of the ducts and does not necessarily enter the living space. At Filterbuy HVAC Solutions, we are experts in repairing and replacing flexible, fiberglass and metal air ducts.
Whether you decide to clean your home's air ducts or not, it is essential to commit to a good preventive maintenance program to minimize duct contamination. This is because much of the dirt that can accumulate inside the air ducts adheres to the surfaces of the ducts and does not necessarily enter the living space. Like a well-oiled machine, air ducts need regular maintenance and repair to ensure proper operation. Duct cleaning methods vary, although industry associations that deal with air duct cleaning have established standards. Leaks in the return ducts are difficult to detect because larger return ducts operate at a lower air pressure and air enters the system.
Therefore, it is always best to use the professional services of experienced HVAC technicians for any repair related to air ducts. Preventing water and dirt from entering the system is the most effective way to avoid contamination (see How to Prevent Duct Contamination). The time it takes to complete an air duct repair project will vary depending on the severity of the damage; however, most repairs are usually completed in one day. If no one in your home has allergies or unexplained symptoms or illnesses and if, after a visual inspection of the inside of the ducts, you see no evidence that the air ducts are contaminated with large deposits of dust or mold (there is no musty smell or visible mold growth), cleaning them is probably not necessary. Manufacturers of products marketed to coat and encapsulate duct surfaces claim that these sealants prevent dust and dirt particles inside air ducts from being released into the air.
These products are specifically designed for use in ducts or as ducts themselves, and are tested according to standards established by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Most organizations that deal with duct cleaning, including the EPA, NADCA, NAIMA, and the National Association of Metal Plate Contractors and Air Conditioning (SMACNA), do not currently recommend the routine use of sealants to encapsulate contaminants in any type of duct.
