The heating and air conditioning system is an important part of your home. Without it, the temperature in your home would be extremely difficult to manage. But, there is an important part of your home’s HVAC system that many people overlook-the air ducts. The air ducts are generally installed under the floors, behind the walls or in the attic, which means they are usually hidden, so you don’t really think about them until it’s necessary. One of the most important things you can do for your home and the indoor air quality is to have the air ducts cleaned. Here are a few reasons why you should have your air ducts cleaned.
Increases Life of the HVAC System
The air ducts are responsible for spreading clean air throughout your house; however, if they are dirty or clogged, it prevents proper air movement, which causes the HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. Cleaning the air ducts will allow the HVAC system to work more efficiently and ultimately reduce energy use and energy costs. Most pollutants, such as dust, debris and fur carry water molecules on them. These water molecules can cause corrosion inside the air ducts. Unfortunately, even a small amount of damage to the air ducts may require you to replace a large amount of the duct system, possibly even the entire system. Between the corrosion, stress on the HVAC system and failure to properly maintain the system, it will decrease the lifespan of the HVAC system, but with routine air duct cleaning you can increase the lifespan of the HVAC system.
Eliminates Odors
If you have smelled a bad odor, but you can’t seem to find the source of the odor, it’s probably coming from the air ducts. When the air ducts are dirty, it causes foul odors to spread throughout your home. Pet dander and fur can get trapped in the air ducts causing odors, so for pet owners it’s especially important that you replace your HVAC system’s air filter once a month and scheduling annual air duct cleaning to help to eliminate bad odors seeping throughout your home.
Relieves Respiratory Allergies
If someone in your home has suddenly developed respiratory allergies, it may be due to your home’s indoor air quality. Respiratory allergies and the quality of the air you breathe have a direct relationship with each other. When you are breathing in air that has contaminants, such as mold spores, dust and pollen, it can cause sneezing, runny nose, coughing and watery eyes; all of which are symptoms of allergies. An annual air duct cleaning means these contaminants will be removed from the air ducts allowing fresh, clean air to move through your home and relieving the symptoms of respiratory allergies.
The Buildup of Dirt, Dust, and Debris
If you are noticing a buildup of dust on tables and bookshelves, it’s most likely a result of the air ducts being dirty and dusty. Routine duct cleaning means there will not be a buildup of dust, dirt, and debris in the air ducts, which results in you having to dust your home less often. When the HVAC system isn’t in use, the dust and debris lay dormant in the ductwork, so as soon as you turn the system on, there will be an extreme amount of dust that gets blown out and throughout your home.
Mold Spores
One of the scariest concerns for homeowners is discovering mold in their homes. HVAC systems are a common source for mold spores being dispersed throughout the air. If mold is developing in your HVAC system, it will automatically be blown through the air ducts and out into the indoor air. Not only will this affect your indoor air quality, but it may lead to symptoms of allergies and asthma, especially in children and the elderly. Routine duct cleaning ensures that the system is clean and free from dangerous mold spores.
Insects and Rodents in the Ducts
When the weather is cold outside, insects and rodents search for a place that is warm and the air ducts provide the perfect environment for them. Mice, rats, and squirrels are notorious for chewing through even the toughest materials, including your home’s electrical wiring and their droppings and dander can easily seep into the indoor air as these pests use the air ducts for a pathway. Routine duct cleaning can help prevent the risk of rodent transmitting diseases, such as Hantavirus, which is often caused by rodent droppings.
If it’s been several years since you’ve had the air ducts cleaned or you recently moved into an existing home, it’s best to have an air duct cleaning professional come to your home to inspect the air ducts.