Have you noticed that some homes or businesses smell a bit stale when you walk in? Perhaps it could be due to the changing of seasons and a lack of circulation, but the problem could also lie in air ducts that need to be cleaned. There are all kinds of pretty nasty things that can build up in your ventilation system, and they’re being blown around the air in your home or office on a daily basis. How do you know when to clean your air ducts so they are more efficient?
While there are a number of efficiency-related reasons for keeping your HVAC systems clean, improved air quality is perhaps the most compelling argument for regular cleaning of your air ducts. Dirty air ducts are only one of the sources of dust and pollutants within your indoor environment, but they can be one of the most visible. Mold, mildew, and pollen tend to build up in damp, dark places, and these are just the contaminants that you can see! The overall efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system is also a concern when your air ducts go too long between cleanings. Even a small series of leaks in your ductwork can prevent hot or cold air from getting to the desired location.
Your ductwork is only shiny and perfectly clean for a short period of time after installation. Once everything is operational, the damage begins with a buildup of dust, mold, dirt, smoke pollution, dust mites, and even small pests such as rodents or bugs.
Your ductwork is only shiny and perfectly clean for a short period of time after installation. Once everything is operational, the damage begins with a buildup of dust, mold, dirt, smoke pollution, dust mites, and even small pests such as rodents or bugs. Aside from potentially impacting your family’s health, these byproducts negatively affect your system’s overall efficiency and end up costing you more money to heat and cool your home or office over time.
While periodic cleaning is not considered mandatory for your duct system, in order to maintain a high level of efficiency, it’s important to clean your system when needed. Qualified professionals can review your HVAC system on a regular basis to ensure it meets industry standards for cleanliness and effectiveness. Professionals do not recommend that you clean your air ducts every year or even every few years, but instead that you schedule regular inspections. Your HVAC professional can assess your system and provide you with a cleaning schedule that will meet your needs. If you have family members who suffer from allergies or have pets in the home, you may want to schedule more regular reviews of your system.
Want to know more about your air duct maintenance? Contact the pros at Buckeye Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at (614) 647-5306 today for a free estimate. Our knowledgeable associates will work closely with you to determine the best options based on your budget and lifestyle.