Would there be asbestos blowing out of my heating system?
I know I have asbestos in my house's walling. Does that mean whenever my heat blows that asbestos will blow out with it? Is there a way to know this? ...
I know I have asbestos in my house's walling. Does that mean whenever my heat blows that asbestos will blow out with it? Is there a way to know this?
No it is stable for many years unless it is broken, cut or ground.
It is very safe when painted over.
No way I can think of to detect it except microscope examination for fibers – highly unlikely.
You need to be very careful about this, it is possible if there is asbestos insulation surrounding the heating elements. Only an experienced asbestos surveyor will be able to determine this. A sample will also need to be taken to determine the type and the condition. The material when deteriorating may enter the airflow and contaminate in internal lining of the ductwork and possibly further throughout the room.
The extent of the material entering the airflow will be dependent on many things, however air monitoring can be undertaken (http://www.safeenvironments.com.au/asbestos-air-monitoring/) to quantify the potential exposure to respirable fibers
Carl is right. The only way to know for sure is to have a certified professional come out to your house and do some testing. However, if there is asbestos insulation around your heating ducts, it is most likely only on the outside. If there is asbestos blowing through your heater, that most likely means that both the heating duct and the insulation have been compromised and the asbestos is now friable.
If you let the problem go for too long, you might be putting yourself and your family in danger of developing mesothelioma or asbestosis. You should definitely check into it.