Your ductwork is an essential part of your heating and cooling system. It transfers air to and from your unit and keeping it clean and leak-free can make a difference in your indoor air quality! But because your ductwork is hidden, it’s hard to tell when it needs cleaning and maintenance. The pros at Freedom Air and Heat have prepared a list of some telltale signs you need to schedule a duct cleaning!
1. Your Home is Dusty No Matter How Often You Clean
If you notice that every surface in your home always has a layer of dust no matter how often you clean, you might have a problem in your ductwork. Unclean ducts can build up dust and dirt and lead to allergens and pollutants making their way into your home. In addition, dust buildup can increase if there are leaks in your ductwork!
2. Mold Growth on the Visible Part of Your Ducts
If you notice mold growth on your AC or furnace or you notice any kind of mildew near your vent openings, you might need to clean your ductwork. Mold growth occurs when there is excessive moisture in a certain area—in this case, your ducts—and if ignored, it can cause greater problems for your home. If mold growth increases, you might need to replace your entire ductwork instead of simply cleaning it!
3. You Find Heating and Cooling Costs Climbing
There could be many reasons for a rapid increase in your heating and cooling costs and an unclean duct system is one of them. Excess dirt and dust can clog up your ductwork and force your furnace or AC to work harder than it needs to, which can lead to higher energy costs.
4. A Stranger Odor
If you notice a strange odor coming from near your vents and registers, your ducts might need cleaning. Odors can be caused by numerous things like mold, mildew, moisture and even pest droppings.
5. Increased Allergy Symptoms
If someone in your home is prone to allergies, you have even more reason to make sure your ducts are clean. If allergies and asthma start acting up, you might be due for a duct cleaning. Air travelling through dust-covered ductwork can expose you and your family to even more pollutants, allergens, and toxins.
Remember: Don’t Clean Your Ducts Yourself
While you might be inclined to clean your ducts yourself to save money, it is better and safer to have a professional do it instead. A licensed technician can perform deeper cleaning, repair leaks and use safer and more efficient methods.
Have any more questions about duct cleaning? Get in touch with the pros at Freedom Air and Heat. Our team of experts will be more than happy to answer your questions and get you the help that you need! Call us today at 321-631-6886 or schedule a service with us on our website.
