Air Duct Cleaning 101
Dirty air ducts not only reduce airflow but also decrease indoor air quality. If the ducts are not properly cleaned, foul odors can also be caused. Homeowners can keep their homes comfortable by getting air duct cleaning service annually.
Why Is Air Duct Cleaning Necessary?
Air ducts range in size depending on the air conditioning system. Although some ducts are small, this does not impact leaks. The ductwork of any kind can rip, causing air-conditioned air to escape. When this happens, homeowners must pay more for their monthly energy bills. One way to spot these tears before they become a major problem is to schedule regular cleanings.
Professional air duct cleaners use specialized equipment to inspect and clean the ductwork. A camera system with long cables can help them detect leaks in hard-to-spot areas. When homeowners attempt to clean air ducts, they often use a brush or vacuum, which does not remove all pollutants from entering the home.
Those who suffer from allergies can greatly benefit from air duct cleaning. Reducing mildew, pollen, and other bacteria helps children and adults breathe easier. This is especially true for households with pets.
Neglected ducts can cause fires due to lint. This is true regardless of how old the HVAC system is. Annual cleaning will help keep the home safe by significantly reducing the likelihood of ignition. Not only does this save lives, but it can also save the HVAC unit. Air conditioners and heaters last longer when they are properly maintained.
Signs It’s Time to Clean the Ducts
Homeowners may notice health symptoms from contamination if the ducts haven’t been cleaned regularly. These include headaches, dizziness, or extreme lethargy. If homeowners notice a musty smell, it is probably due to mold.
Mold growth typically happens in rooms where there is already water. The bathroom and kitchen are common problem areas. This can be due to dirty overhead vents, but even bacteria that have formed deep inside the air ducts can still cause contamination inside.
Excess dust is another sign the air ducts should be cleaned. Dusty air ducts may come from clogged air filters. While the air filters can be changed, the dust must be completely removed. A professional can handle dust, mold, and insects during routine AC maintenance.
In addition to a musty scent, dirty air filters can smell smokey or rotten. This happens for several reasons, depending on the household. Rotten or especially pungent smells can occur if rodents die inside the air ducts. This needs to be handled quickly and in a sanitary way.
Homeowner Maintenance Tips
There are a few ways homeowners can reduce contaminants inside the air ducts. The easiest way is to change the air filters every three months. Households with pets may require filter changes once per month. If the filter is blocked, this will also restrict airflow, which reduces energy efficiency.
A clean home will decrease the amount of dust trapped inside the ducts. Vacuuming is the most important part. Homeowners are advised to vacuum or sweep weekly, regardless of the home size.
Professional ductwork cleaning should be scheduled once per year. This is usually done in the spring but can be completed anytime. A professional can inspect the ductwork as they clean so that repairs remain inexpensive.
Mr. Air AC & Electrical
Mr. Air AC & Electrical provides AC and heating maintenance for Pompano Beach, FL, homeowners. They offer personalized service, honest advice, and only start work with upfront pricing. For air duct cleaning in Pompano Beach, FL, call Mr. Air AC & Electrical today!
