Sweaty ductwork reduces the performance of your cooling and heating systems and can lead to the growth of mold and mildew on your ceilings and walls, as well as in your attic, basement or crawlspace. Mold and mildew are not only unattractive and unpleasant to smell, but they may also be structurally damaging to your home and dangerous to your health. So to prevent sweaty ductwork, Acker Heating & Cooling shares a short guide below.
Why Do Ducts Sweat?
Your ductwork sweats due to poor insulation. If it isn’t well-insulated, the temperature of the air traveling through it will be colder than the metal ductwork. Condensation occurs when warm damp air meets the cool surface of your ducts. Condensation can damage ceilings, drywall and everything else in the vicinity. Condensed water damages insulation, affecting its ability to insulate. Under-insulated ducts cause discomfort and waste energy by making your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system work harder to cool your home.
3 Ways to Stop Ducts From Sweating
Insulate. It’s best to insulate your ductwork to current code levels. This will prevent it from conducting the warm or cool air that flows through it. The conditioned air stops when it comes into contact with the insulation. Warm air is significantly less likely to condense when it comes into contact with your ductwork, which will adopt the same temperature as the surrounding air.
Air seal. Humidity can be controlled by closing gaps and fractures in the walls around your ductwork. Filling those openings with air sealant keeps humid air away from your ducts and inside your home, lowering the chance of condensation.
Dehumidify. Installing a dehumidifier to keep the air around your ductwork at low humidity levels is especially beneficial if your ductwork is in your attic. A dehumidifier maintains a healthy level of moisture in your home all-year-long, preventing condensation on the plumbing and ducts and enhancing your indoor air quality.
For your residential and commercial HVAC needs, Acker Heating & Cooling has got you covered. Call us at (706) 715-2607 or you can fill out our contact form to book an appointment.