The Importance of Ductwork Cleaning
Air ducts typically attach to the entirety of a home. When an HVAC circulates air, whether it’s warm or cold air, it flows through the ductwork and out into the home. Clean air ducts and a clean air filter are the only things separating dust, allergens, and other debris from flowing freely throughout the home. It affects the health of those living at home, the indoor air quality, and the HVAC unit's efficiency.
There are several benefits to be aware of, including these:
- Improve indoor air quality
- Enhance HVAC efficiency
- Extend the lifespan of equipment
- Prevent or reduce odors
- Reduce side effects of allergies and asthma
How to Identify When Air Duct Cleaning Is Necessary
Homeowners can be proactive with duct cleaning by setting up a routine schedule to have them cleaned every so often. It is also fine to have them cleaned as needed. However, it is important to recognize the signs to maintain a healthy home environment.
- Excessive Visible Dust: when dust or debris is present and returns quickly after cleaning up, it’s a sign of dust and debris buildup in the air ducts.
- Mold Growth: mold in or around the air ducts is a big sign that shouldn’t be ignored, as it can pose serious health risks
- Allergies and Respiratory Issues: when someone in the home is experiencing unexplained or excessive allergies or respiratory issues, this could be why
- Unusual Odors: unexplainable odors, particularly musty or stale odors, could be a sign of dirty air ducts
- Inconsistent Airflow: air that seems to flow erratically or causes the system to struggle to cool could be a sign of blockages in the ductwork.
When you are familiar with the basic signs of dirty air ducts, you can plan when to hire someone to clean them again!
Strategies to Maintain Clean Air Ducts
While regular ductwork cleaning is important, there are also steps a homeowner can take to help maintain cleaner air ducts in between cleaning services.
- Regularly clean and dust the home to reduce the amount of dust and debris getting into the air ducts.
- Replace air filters approximately every 1-3 months as needed to help prevent dust and debris from getting into the air ducts.
- Schedule regular AC maintenance and heating maintenance for unit care and cleaning.
- Ensure air ducts are properly sealed and cared for to reduce contaminants entering the system.
Regular air duct cleaning is crucial, but it can also easily be paired with these additional steps to help keep the indoor air quality clean and ensure the efficiency of the heating and air unit in the home. Take note of the signs for air duct cleaning and strive to implement effective strategies to protect the home and air. Small steps will make a big difference for everyone in the home.
About Boutwell’s Air Masters
Boutwell’s Air Masters has provided more than 50 years of HVAC solutions in the community. This locally owned and operated business understands the importance of an effective and reliable HVAC system and provides comprehensive services. Contact them for your air duct cleaning and more in Pensacola, FL.
