How moisture gets into ducts
Cold air moving through ducts in a hot, humid attic can cause condensation on the outside of the ducts, especially where insulation is torn or ducts have come loose. Leaky return ducts can also pull humid attic air into the system.
Signs of a moisture problem
- A musty smell when the AC turns on
- Water stains on the ceiling near vents
- Sweating or dripping vents
- One room that always feels damp or warm
Why torn or disconnected ducts make it worse
Florida attics get extremely hot. Over the years flex duct can tear, sag or come loose. Besides letting moisture in, damaged ducts send cooled air into the attic instead of your rooms, so the AC runs longer and your power bill goes up.
Simple steps to protect your ducts
Keep the thermostat at a steady setting instead of turning the AC off for long periods. Make sure the condensate drain line is clear. Change filters on schedule. Have the ductwork inspected if a room never cools properly or you see damage in the attic.
If you see mold
If you see what looks like mold on vents or ducts, have it inspected. Depending on what's found, the right fix may involve a mold specialist or your AC technician, not just a cleaning. We'll tell you honestly what we see.