In case you didn’t know, dirty air ducts can affect your health. So, if you’re someone who suffers from allergies or asthma, it’s important to keep them clean.
But how do you know if your air ducts are dirty? And, what can you do about it? And, what should you do when dirty air ducts affect your health? We answer these questions and more below.
What are the signs of dirty air ducts?
Some signs that your air ducts might be dirty include:
1. You can see dust and debris arising out of the vents. A sign your ducts are dirty is if you see dust and debris astir. It’s particularly true when the furnace or air conditioner is on. Dust and debris can also build up on the vents themselves.
2. Dust and debris in the air. Another dirty air ducts sign is dust and debris in the air. Also, if you see it when the furnace or air conditioner is on, even if you can’t see it emerging from the vents. It can be especially true if someone in your house is dusting or vacuuming.
3. You have allergies or asthma, and your symptoms seem to worsen when the furnace or air conditioner is on. Pay attention to the details of when your symptoms happen. If they worsen when the furnace or air conditioner is on, you may need to clean your ducts.
4. You notice that your energy bills have gone up. Your utility bills are on the rise, even though you’re not using your heating or cooling system more than usual. It could be because your system is working harder to push air through dirty ducts.
What should I do if my air ducts are dirty?
If you think your air ducts might be dirty, the first step is to contact a professional who can inspect them and clean them if necessary. Be sure to hire someone who is experienced and has the proper equipment.
Why should I hire a professional to clean my air ducts?
Hiring a professional to clean your air ducts is the best way to clean them properly. Professionals have the HVAC training and equipment needed to clean your ducts without causing damage.
How can dirty air ducts affect my health?
If you or someone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma, keep your air ducts clean and free of debris. Dust, pollen, mold spores and other allergens can collect in dirty air ducts. And they can circulate throughout your home every time the furnace or air conditioner kicks on.
These allergens can aggravate allergies and asthma symptoms, making them harder to control. In some cases, it may even lead to serious health problems.
A professional will remove all the built-up dust and debris, allowing you to breathe easier. In some cases, it may also be necessary to have the ducts sealed or repaired to prevent further contamination.
Dirty air ducts can also affect your health by causing headaches, fatigue and dizziness. Poor air quality often causes these symptoms, which directly relate to the amount of dust and other allergens in the air.
When these particles circulate through your home, they can irritate your eyes, nose and throat, causing several uncomfortable symptoms.
A professional duct cleaning will remove all contaminants from your system, which improves the air quality in your home and makes it easier for you to breathe.
You don’t have to experience any of these health problems. So, if you want to see improvement in the air quality in your home, contact a professional air duct cleaning service today.
How can I keep my air ducts clean?
Take these simple steps to reduce dust and debris in your home and keep your air ducts clean:
1. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and vacuum regularly. Vacuuming regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter can remove the particles that can cause problems.
2. Dust surfaces with a damp cloth. Dusting surfaces with a wet cloth can also reduce the amount of dust and debris that’s astir.
3. Avoid carpet. Avoid carpeting, especially in areas where there’s a lot of dust or other airborne particles.
4. Keep pets out of rooms where you plan to vacuum or dust. Pets should not be allowed in rooms where you intend to vacuum or dust. They can track dirt and other materials that can contribute to the problem.
5. Don’t smoke inside your home. Avoid smoking inside your home, as it can contribute significantly to the amount of dirt and other airborne particles in the air.
6. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier. Using an air conditioner or dehumidifier can control humidity levels in your home.
7. Clean air ducts regularly, using a professional service if necessary. Cleaning your air ducts regularly is crucial for maintaining healthy indoor air quality. You may need to use a professional service if your ducts are difficult to access or if you have allergies or other respiratory conditions.
8. Ventilate your home. Ventilation helps remove contaminated air from your home and replace it with fresh, clean air.
9. Install a whole-house air purifier. An air purifier can help remove contaminants in the air from your home.
10. Use household cleaners and products that do not contain harmful chemicals. Choose household cleaners and products that are less likely to release dangerous chemicals astir.
How often should I have a professional clean my air ducts?
You should clean your air ducts every three to five years, according to The National Air Duct Cleaners Association. Doing so will keep them free of dust, pollen and other allergens that can cause respiratory problems.
If you live in an area with high levels of air pollution, you may need to clean your air ducts more often. You should also have them cleaned if someone in your home has allergies or asthma or you have pets.
Conclusion
When it comes to your health, dirty air ducts can have a significant impact. Sufferers of allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions may be particularly susceptible to the effects of dirty air ducts. In some cases, dirty air ducts can even lead to serious health problems.
Those concerned about the impact dirty air ducts have on health can do a few things to mitigate the effects. Installing a whole-house air purifier can help remove contaminants from the air in your home. You can also use household cleaners and products that do not contain harmful chemicals.
By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your home’s air is clean and safe for you, your pets and your family.
