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Here’s What Homeowners Should Know About Cleaning Their Air Ducts

Spring has sprung, so it’s time to start getting outside more to enjoy the changing weather! But spring also means it’s time to get those parts of the house cleaned that are generally neglected for the rest of the year. And for many homeowners, this means cleaning out the fridge, cleaning underneath the oven, and putting away the winter clothes. While all these things are good to do, they often overshadow a more important house area that is never seen but gets very dirty: the air ducts. There are several important reasons to have the home’s ducts cleaned regularly. Read on to find out what they are!

Why Have a Home’s Air Ducts Cleaned?duct

The cleanliness of a home’s ductwork can affect the home’s indoor air quality. And considering that the average home’s indoor air quality is significantly worse than even the most polluted American city’s outdoor air, it’s important to keep this in mind when spring cleaning comes around. By cleaning the ducts, homeowners can help keep their home’s indoor air cleaner. This is especially important if infants or elderly people live in the home, as their respiratory systems are more susceptible to airborne problems. 

Ducts also tend to have a buildup of mold and mildew, which can cause odors in the house. Depending on the mold, it could have serious health consequences for those in the house. But health isn’t the only thing that can benefit from clean ducts. The home’s HVAC system will also function better when the ducts are cleaned regularly. 

dustWatch for These Signs of Dirty Air Ducts

There are many different signs that the air ducts need cleaning. The most concerning has to do with mold and mildew. If a musty smell comes out of the vents when the AC is on, there’s a good chance mold is growing. This requires a professional duct cleaning service to eliminate the respiratory risks. Visible dust around and inside the vents is also a good indication that it’s time for a cleaning. A quick glimpse into a few vents with a flashlight can help homeowners determine how much dust they’re dealing with. 

If anyone in the house is complaining of respiratory problems or allergies, the vents could be to blame. It’s also a good idea to watch for an increase in the power bill that can’t be attributed to other factors. Lots of dust can affect different system components, reducing efficiency and raising prices. 

 

How to Maintain Clean Air Ducts

Once homeowners see how much dust builds up in their air ducts, they often wonder if there’s anything they can do to help keep them cleaner between professional duct cleaning services. Luckily, there are a few things homeowners can do! 

The two top things that will help keep the ducts clean are changing the air filter on time and keeping the house clean. Filter changes are so important for the health of the AC system and the health of the household. Those homeowners who aren’t sure how often to change their filter should ask a professional, as different filters require different change schedules. Keeping the house clean is pretty straightforward. A cleaner house means less dust that can end up in the ducts. Regular vacuuming, dusting, and sweeping help tremendously between spring air duct cleanings. 

About Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc.

The friendly professionals at Colonial Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc. have been serving Colonial Heights, VA, since 1982. They’re known for their exceptional customer service and knowledgeable technicians. They always guarantee satisfaction on every job! Contact them today for duct cleaning services in Colonial Heights, VA.