Indoor air quality is a very important part of your home maintenance, as poor air can contribute to asthma and allergies. While you may not give much thought to the air ducts in your home system, it’s a hidden maintenance task that can yield great results for a healthier and happier home.
Why do ducts get dirty?
The simple answer is that the air we breathe is pretty dusty, which is why so many parts of our home systems have filters over their air intake valves. Without these in place, the microscopic dust, dirt, and pollen in the air would soon overwhelm the motor and cause it to seize.
While it doesn’t have quite the same effect on us, atmospheric debris can contribute to a range of health issues, from seasonal allergies to asthma. This is why our HVAC systems filter it out. Over time, this filtered dust can cling to the sides of the air ducts, which makes the system less efficient and can also cause it to work harder, especially if the filter is also clogged. If the system isn’t working correctly, the chance of dust accidentally seeping back into the air you breathe is high. In time, it will also wear your system out prematurely and cost you more money.
The hidden dangers of dirty HVAC ducts
If your home has high atmospheric humidity, it will be prone to mold overgrowth. Mold is incredibly dangerous for your health, especially black mold, which can lead to chronic coughing, sneezing, fatigue, and headaches, among other problems. With the dust lining your air ducts providing a fertile surface, mold can take root, releasing spores into the air you’re breathing with disastrous health effects. Dirty HVAC ducts can also become clogged, which will break the system, or harbor pests like rats.
What can you do to keep your HVAC clean?
The best defense against dust is a good filter. If you are naturally prone to allergies or breathing issues, you may want to invest in a HEPA-certified HVAC system. The unique filtration system used in HEPA-compliant equipment can filter out particles down to microscopic levels, and is a good choice where health concerns are present. Even if you don’t need that degree of investment, make sure you are running the correct filter for your HVAC system, and be sure to clean and change them at the time recommended by the manufacturer.
How do I clean my air ducts?
This isn’t a job that’s suited for DIY, unless you have a lot of experience and the necessary safety equipment. Instead, bring in a professional like the Duct Dudes for this task. While this doesn’t need to be an annual task, it should be performed regularly as part of your home maintenance plan.
Great indoor air quality feels amazing, and contributes to your health. Meanwhile, an HVAC unit that’s running smoothly will last for years to come. Keeping your ducts clean just makes sense, so why not schedule a clean today?
