Three Things To Know About Air Duct Cleaning
Springtime is officially here, and that means one thing: pollen, dust, and dander will soon be in full force. Thankfully, instead of resigning themselves to respiratory problems, there are many things homeowners can do to promote indoor air quality. The solution? Duct cleaning.
Ducts are long, usually silver tubes that allow air to circulate through an appliance, usually an air conditioner or dryer. Over time, particles can collect inside ducts, blowing less-than-ideal air through the home. Thankfully, it only takes a few moments of a homeowner’s time to clean their air ducts–and the payoff is invaluable.
Why Homeowners Should Clean Their Air Ducts 
Reasons why one should clean their air ducts once every three to five years include:
- Cleaning air ducts removes dust, dander, and other debris that irritate one’s respiratory system
- Dirty air ducts compromise the home’s indoor air quality
- Too much dust build-up inside the system can shorten the air filter’s lifespan and make the AC unit work less efficiently
The EPA also notes that if an air duct previously had a rodent or insect infestation, one should also clean their duct – even if they just did recently.
Signs That It’s Time To Clean That Air Duct 
One should consider cleaning their air ducts if:
- Mold is growing in or around the air duct tube
- The home’s air has a stale, musty smell to it
- Residents are having a hard time breathing or complain of bad air quality
- One hasn’t cleaned their ducts within the past three to five years
- Particles are blowing through the vents
- Residents in the home struggle with allergies
As noted, cleaning one’s air ducts is easy. They can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust deep inside the duct. If one can remove the duct altogether, they should take it outside and blast it with the hose. Afterward, they can dry it off with a towel and then reattach it.
Tips for Maintaining the Home’s Air Ducts
The EPA notes that homeowners can employ these measures to keep their ducts from getting dirty:
- Keeping the home free of dust: The less dust there is in a home, the less dust will get into the air ducts.
- Promptly respond to any mold: One can address mold using a solution of water and bleach.
- Any animals have been in the vents: This was already said, but it bears repeating. Rodents can leave urine trails and feces, which can blow through the vents. Insects can also molt inside the ducts, causing their discarded shells to blow through the vents.
- There is a noticeable change in the home’s indoor air quality: Respiratory problems are just one sign that a home’s ducts need cleaning. If the household chronically feels tired or nauseous, this could be an indicator.
About Cleary Plumbing & Air
Cleary Plumbing & Air has more than 25 years of experience serving its community. It’s committed to helping those in West Palm Beach, Florida, enjoy the benefits of clean air. Interested parties in Palm Beach County can call these professionals today for AC services!
