Go Back

Include the Air Ducts in the Spring Cleaning Routine

Posted on April 20, 2022 by

Getting the Dirt on Clean Air Ducts

A typical home heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system brings air from the outdoors, takes it through a filter, changes its temperature, and then distributes it throughout the house via a closed system of ducts. If the filter does its job, then the outside air should be clean when it enters the ducts; however, the ducts tend to accumulate dust, allergens, and other detritus that may spread around the home. This can be detrimental to indoor air quality. A homeowner should consider having their ducts inspected and professionally cleaned.

The Benefits of Clean Air Ducts

duct

Every person would prefer to have a clean home, as much for the aesthetics as for the physical and mental health benefits. Clean air ducts can help with this.

The indoor air quality may not be directly related to dirty ducts. Still, ducts may conceal germs, mold, and allergens that irritate chronic lung diseases such as asthma and emphysema. Allergies are less likely to be irritated. Cleaner air ducts can also help keep an HVAC system at its most efficient. This saves both energy and money.

Indicators of Filthy Air Ducts


dust

Just because there is dirt in a home’s air ducts does not mean that it is causing a problem with the home’s indoor air quality. There are, however, several clear signs that the ducts may need professional cleaning and maintenance. 
  • Inconsistent Airflow: If the strength of the airflow is intermittent, or if it seems noticeably stronger in some rooms than in others, there may be something blocking ducts.
  • Quickly Accumulating Dust: Does dust seem to settle on surfaces more quickly than before? There may be a bunch of dust in the air ducts distributed throughout the house.
  • Unusual sounds: Are there creaking or squeaking sounds coming from the ducts? Banging or scratching sounds? These can indicate a pest infestation in the ducts. This can be a serious problem that may need an exterminator as much as professional HVAC duct cleaning. Rodents and bugs can be very unhealthy for a home’s inhabitants.
  • Unpleasant smells: If the vents are putting out a boggy smell or a fouler odor, this can mean mold or mildew problems. While the ducts may not be the source of the problem, moisture can collect in the ducts and exacerbate a problem that would normally not become an issue. Smells can also be due to pests. 

Pro Tips for Cleaner Ducts Year Round

After a professional cleaning, how can a homeowner maintain their air ducts and prevent them from getting so dirty in the future? Making sure that the air conditioning unit is receiving proper maintenance is one of the first steps. 

Changing filters regularly helps prevent dirty air ducts and allergy flare-ups. This will help keep minor issues from turning into major ones. If a person’s house has a particular issue with moisture or allergens, there are extra steps that they can take to further guarantee cleaner air.

  • Use a dehumidifier 
  • Get a HEPA filter
  • Consider a UV filter
  • Keep intakes dusted

About Air Comfort Service, Inc.

The multiple award-winning Air Comfort Service proudly serves St. Peters, MO, and the St. Louis area. They offer prompt, reliable services at affordable, straightforward prices. Call today for any HVAC maintenance and installation questions.

Distribution Links +