Whether it’s dirt, dust, debris, mites, dander, microbes, or mold spores, unclean air ducts are some of the sources of particles in your home, so how many pollutants are too many?
We’ll help you understand when and how often air duct cleaning is needed so you can prevent the spread of mold, rodents, insects, and other infestations that’ll undermine your home’s infrastructure, your health, and the health of your loved ones.
At Clearview Air Duct Cleaning, we understand your need to keep your indoor air clean, which is why you can contact us to use state-of-the-art equipment and remove all air duct contaminants for a reasonable price.
How Often to Clean Your Air Ducts
Air duct cleaning is supposed to be something other than a routine measure. You can clean your air ducts when they need it.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should clean your air ducts if they’re contaminated (with visible mold growth, vermin, debris, or dirt) and your house residents are starting to get sick.
But how do you detect signs of contamination in air ducts, and what are the factors that affect how frequently your air ducts need cleaning? These questions will help you deduce how frequently to clean your air ducts and estimate how much you’ll spend on air duct cleaning.
Signs You Need to Clean Your Air Ducts
The following signs suggest that your air ducts need cleaning:
Mold
Visible mold, mildew, and musty smells are clear signs that your air ducts are contaminated.
Mold is airborne, facilitating its growth in your ducts and impacting your health. Mold infestations call for professional air duct cleaning and mold removal services, as only experts and labs can confirm that a dark spot is indeed mold and treat it.
Note that you can’t see too far into your ductwork, which is why you’ll need a duct cleaning company to conduct a video inspection (by filming the inside of your ducts).
Vermin
Did you find rodents, rats, or insects in your home’s air ducts? The mold and mildew buildup creates a tempting environment for vermin, which can spread through your home via air ducts.
Rats and mice can damage your home’s infrastructure, whereas insects can cause discomfort and even spread diseases.
Debris & Dust
Dirt, dust, and debris frequently move through your air ducts, sticking to their internal walls.
The EPA states that no evidence suggests that household dust or particulate matter in air ducts can cause health risks, and dust on return registers isn’t concerning.
However, the issue arises when your air ducts hold excess amounts of debris. The ducts can get clogged. And they can be released into your home via supply registers.
Frequent dust blowing into your home and debris buildup are clear signs you need to clean your air ducts.
Renovated or Newly Built Homes
You’ll need air duct cleaning if you’ve recently had construction work, remodelings, or major renovations, especially those involving floor sanding or drywall work, as they generate tons of dirt, dust, and debris.
If you have yet to seal your supply and return registers beforehand, your ducts are likely contaminated and need cleaning.
Increased Energy Costs
If your energy bills have increased, unclean ducts may be the cause. The dirt in heating and cooling system components may affect the system’s efficiency, which means it needs to work harder and consume more energy.
According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) ‘s infographic, families can cut 20-30% of their energy bill by accomplishing proper HVAC system maintenance, and that includes air duct cleaning.
Sickness
Have you noticed deterioration in your health and the health of the home’s inhabitants? It might be time to get your ductwork cleaned.
Dirty vents result in lower indoor air quality, which can look like persistent colds, allergic reactions, respiratory problems, sinus infections, and unexplainable symptoms and diseases. People with asthma, allergies, and other illnesses are particularly prone to them.
Factors Affecting the Frequency of Air Duct Cleaning
Several factors can cause your ductwork to need more or less cleaning, including:
Smoking: If any house residents smoke, this causes high contamination levels and requires more air duct cleaning.
Duct Damage: Damaged ducts promote poor air quality, so your duct system will get dirty more frequently.
Pets: Are you a pet owner? If you have an extra fuzzy one that sheds tons of hair or has dander, it’ll get stuck in your ducts, making them dirty faster.
Allergies or Asthma: If any individuals in your house suffer from asthma or allergies, they’ll benefit from better air quality. For that reason, you’ll want to prioritize air duct cleaning more often.
Final Words
If health and safety are your priorities, air duct cleaning is necessary. But you don’t need to do it regularly. Instead, look out for the signs that suggest your ductwork is dirty.
And note that the frequency by which you clean your air duct system should depend on your particular circumstances and other factors impacting your air quality.
If you require a reliable company specializing in air duct cleaning, visit Clearview Air Duct Cleaning, and get a quote today!
