Air duct cleaning is one of those household tasks that many people put off because they don’t know how to tell if their ducts even need cleaned in the first place. In most cases, it’s not until there’s a noticeable problem – like dust and dirt particles blowing out from your vents, or unexplained increases in your energy bills – that homeowners begin considering having their ducts cleaned. So, if you’re not sure whether or not you should have your ducts cleaned, here are six tell-tale signs that your air ducts need cleaning.
Signs You Have Dirty Air Ducts
If you are wondering how to tell if your air ducts need to be cleaned, these 6 signs are strong indicators. If you experience any of the situations or notice any of the symptoms below, there’s a good chance that the cause is hidden in your duct system. If you can’t think of any other explanation for the problem, it’s time to schedule a duct cleaning and get rid of the source of the issue once and for all.
Here are some of the things you should be on the lookout for:
Dirty HVAC Filters
The air in your home is much dirtier than you might think. Your HVAC system’s air filters must work overtime to remove all the contaminants from the air, which means they need to be replaced more frequently. By making some simple changes in your home, you can help reduce the amount of particle pollution and make your air filters last longer, and also improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Presence of Mold
Mold and mildew thrive in the dark, humid areas inside HVAC systems like the air ducts. The moist conditions and organic debris that accumulate in these spaces provide the perfect environment for mold to grow. If you see mold or notice a musty smell, you should have your air ducts professionally cleaned.
Mold spores can cause a number of health problems for those with asthma or allergies, and can also damage the HVAC system itself. To prevent mold growth, it is important to keep the inside of the HVAC ductwork and system clean and as dry as possible.
Dust in the Home
Your home is constantly filled with dust, no matter how often you clean, your air ducts are dirty. Dust that originates from within your ducts circulates through the air and eventually settles on the surfaces in your home. Particles built up in the ducts means dust appears more frequently. This can be a never-ending cycle of trying to keep your home clean and dust-free.
Dust on Vents
You may notice dust collecting on the vent covers and registers throughout your home. When this happens, it is probably due to a large volume of dust and other particles that have accumulated within your home’s duct system. No matter how much you clean, dust will continue to collect, thanks to all those little pieces flying through your air every day!
Pests
Pests, vermin, and insects can cause serious health problems if they gain access to your ductwork or infest your ducts. As well as damaging your home, their droppings and other matter can trigger allergic reactions and other medical issues. To protect your health, it is important to have your ducts professionally cleaned if you suspect any type of pest problem.
More Allergy Symptoms
If you notice that your allergies seem to be acting up more than usual, it could be because your air ducts are dirty. Allergens can build up in ductwork, and when you’re exposed to them more often, it can lead to increased symptoms.
When & How Often to Have Your Ducts Cleaned
Duct cleaning is an important part of maintaining a healthy home. It is recommended that homeowners schedule regular air duct cleaning every three to five years to remove any buildup of contaminants. This service improves the performance of the ducts and preserves their condition for longer service life.
If you’ve just moved into a new home or have finished work on a large renovation project, it’s a good idea to have your air ducts cleaned. This will remove any dirt and debris that may have been stirred up, and also eliminate all the matter left behind by previous occupants. Having clean ductwork will ensure that you’re breathing in fresh, clean air.
Professional Duct Cleaning Services
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is time to call in a professional duct cleaning service. Doc Dancer Heating & Air is here to help. We offer comprehensive duct cleaning services that will have your home or office breathing easy in no time! Call us today to schedule service.