Have you cleaned your air ducts recently? If you’re like many people, the answer is probably no. Unfortunately, air ducts build up an immense amount of debris over time that can cause numerous health problems.
Particles of dirt, mold, and other allergens gather in your ducts naturally over time. These particles can make anyone cough or get watery eyes, but they’re especially harmful to people who have asthma or allergies. Young children with asthma may be particularly sensitive to mold, which grows well here in the Pacific Northwest.
Regular duct cleaning keeps your HVAC running smoothly, reduces allergens, and keeps the air clean. While regular cleaning is best, there are several signs it’s time to clean your air ducts at the office or at home.
1. You’ve Been Sneezing Lately
If you or someone in your family has noticed worsening allergy symptoms, you may need to get your air ducts cleaned. A dirty HVAC system spews out air full of dust, debris, and toxins that can cause illness. While a week of itchy eyes is probably just a cold, allergy-like symptoms that worsen over time are probably due to an irritating substance in your air.
2. You Just Can’t Get Rid of the Dust
Does your home seem dustier than it used to be, even though you haven’t changed your dusting schedule? Did you have any major remodels done recently? Are you constantly changing your air filters? If any of these ring true, it’s probably time to clean your air ducts. Remodels can add large amounts of dust to your ducts, necessitating a cleaning.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Climbing and You Don’t Know Why
If you’ve noticed an unexpected spike in your energy bill that can’t be pinned down to increased usage, you may have a clogged or leaky duct. An air duct maintenance specialist can inspect your ducts and see if this is a problem.
4. There’s Mold Spreading in Your Air Ducts
If you think you see mold in your air ducts, get it tested to make sure it’s not a patch of look-alike dirt or another substance. If it is mold, you’ll need a professional to clean and sanitize the area. You should also get the rest of the HVAC system inspected to ensure there aren’t similar problems in other parts of your ducts.
5. Built-up Debris are Restricting The Airflow
Over time, dirt, dandruff, and other debris will build up in your ducts. While this may not seem like a huge problem, even relatively benign substances can be a problem if they restrict airflow in your HVAC system. Blockages make your HVAC system less efficient, which wastes energy and raises your bills.
6. Pests Recently Infested Your Home Or Office
Have you had problems with rodents or insects recently? These critters may have left droppings and viruses in your air ducts. The leavings can present serious health hazards, so it’s definitely a good idea to get your ducts cleaned soon.
7. You Can’t Remember the Last Time you Had your Ducts Cleaned
If you can’t remember when you last did an air duct cleaning, it’s probably well past time to get it done! Either it’s been years since you had your ducts cleaned or you never had them cleaned in the first place.
Without routine air duct maintenance, your ducts will build up allergens, dust, dirt, and toxins. If you don’t want these particles to circulate through your air or clog up your HVAC system, you need to get your ducts cleaned. Your family will thank you.
To get a quote for duct cleaning services, contact DuctVac Northwest today. We are specialists with over 25 years of experience in HVAC services, and we are dedicated to helping you maintain clean and healthy air in your home or business.