Air ducts move hot or cold air from a furnace or HVAC system into the interior rooms of a building. An air filter traps dirt and dust particles at the source, but it is difficult to keep all air pollutants, including pollen and mold spores, from settling inside of ducts. Clean the air ducts in your home to maintain your HVAC system and provide better quality air.
Indications That it’s Time to Clean the Air Ducts in Your Home
Air duct cleaning helps reduce pollutants in your indoor air and can increase your HVAC’s efficiency. If you notice the following signs that it’s time to clean the air ducts, talk to your heating and cooling company for advice.
Dirty Air Duct Covers
The duct cover in each room is a good indication of dirt build-up inside of your vents. Remove the duct cover and look for dust, debris or dirt on the underside of the cover or vent openings. Return air ducts should also be examined. If there is a build-up of dust and dirt on the covers, there will be more inside of the ductwork. Dirty duct covers are a sign that it’s time to clean the air ducts in your home.
Reduced Energy Efficiency
If your furnace or HVAC system is less energy efficient than in previous years, it is time to clean the air ducts in your home. The recommended cleaning is once every 3-5 years. Even though you may have your system checked yearly, problems can occur that involve the restriction of air.
Airflow problems may be caused by pets that sleep on registers, children who slide small toys into vents, and liquid spills that have gone unnoticed. All of these can cause decreased airflow and lower the quality of air delivered.
Physical Ailments Are a Sign You Should Clean The Air Ducts
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is an increasing problem in homes and buildings that are designed to be energy-efficient. While the concept of keeping heat and cool air inside of a structure is a good idea, you are also keeping bacteria, mold, and chemicals trapped inside. Poor ventilation traps contaminants inside and affects your indoor air quality.
Without clean air ducts, physical ailments can appear without an obvious cause. These include skin sensitivities, allergy-type symptoms involving the eyes and nose, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.
Cleaning the air ducts in your home helps maintain your furnace and HVAC system. Professionals have the equipment and tools necessary to remove all of the dirt, dust, and other contaminants from inside of the air duct chambers. You’ll feel better about the quality of air that is being delivered and avoid future problems with debris buildup in your air ducts.
Cal Home Inspection serves Sacramento and the surrounding areas with home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment.