Signs You Need Your Air Ducts Cleaned

We are often asked how do I know if or how often my ducts need to be cleaned. The answers depend on a variety of issues, and here is a guide to some of them.  One rule of thumb for cleaning residential HVAC and air duct systems is every 5 years.  Many homeowners have never cleaned their ducts and probably should if only for the peace of mind knowing that the air ducts that ventilate your home are clean.  There may be other factors and things you’ll notice to help make this decision.

Having your air ducts cleaned should be done regularly to keep your ducts free of dust, debris, mold, and allergens. By keeping your air ducts clear of these, you may improve the indoor air quality in your home. There may be a few ways to notice if it’s time to get your air ducts cleaned.

ODORS OR ALLERGIC REACTIONS
If you notice odors or have an allergic reaction when your heat or AC are turned on, you may want to have the ducts cleaned.  Air ducts carry cold and warm air throughout a home and when there is a buildup of anything that you react to, such as dust, mold and debris, the air that is pushing through these vents may also pushing this mold and debris into the air that your family breaths.

Unexplained indoor allergies may be a sign of a mold issue. If you have unexplained allergies when you’re inside, but your symptoms go away in other areas or outside, it may be wise to have your home checked for mold and have your ducts cleaned.

VISIBLE MOLD GROWTH
Mold and mildew may cause adverse health reactions as well as other structural problems within the home. If you see visible mold growth in your home, it’s important to call a professional immediately to investigate and remediate the mold.

DUST OR DEBRIS COMING OUT OF THE REGISTER
If there is dust debris or mold around your vent openings, it may be wise to clean the ventilation system. Call a professional and set a time for a cleaning. Remember, whatever is blowing out of your events into the air is being breathed in by yourself and your family and friends.

If you are experiencing any allergy symptoms in certain areas of your home or notice any of these telltale signs of needing your air ducts cleaned, contact EnviroVantage today.

The NADCA ACR 2013 is the industry standard for Assessment, Cleaning and Restoration oh HVAC mechanical systems.  It contains the standard procedures for cleaning and assessment.  Page 6 is titled “DETERMINING THE NEED FOR HVAC CLEANING AND RESTORATION”.  This applies to both commercial and residential settings.  For a free copy of the NADCA ACR 2013, call EnviroVantage and we will provide you with one.