Even if you keep your home as shiny as a new penny, deep within its recesses could be dirt you may not know is hiding. The ducts that move the heat and air in your home may be harboring dust, allergens, and debris that eventually finds its way into your home. Homeowners should learn to identify the various signs of ductwork that needs to be cleaned.
Strange Odors
If you smell something strange in your home and cannot find the culprit, it could very well be coming from inside your HVAC unit. Stand near your air conditioner and give it a sniff. If you can identify it as the source of the odor, it could be due to mold, mildew or trapped debris.
Mold and Mildew
Not only can you smell mold and mildew, but you may also be able to see it growing on the vents of your air conditioner. If mold or mildew is visible anywhere near your HVAC system or air ducts, they must be cleaned and sanitized.
Clogged Air Filters
Establish a routine of replacing or cleaning your air filters, like at the change of each season. When air filters get dirty and clogged, they won’t perform as well and can lead to contaminated indoor air and inefficient operation of your HVAC system.
Uneven Airflow
When some air vents are blowing with less force than others in the house, it could be caused by debris clogging the duct system. Low airflow can also be caused by leaky ducts that have eroded over time.
Dust in Your Home
If you notice dust on your furniture and flooring that is more than usual, it could be a sign that your duct system has dust and debris inside. Dust and particulates can flow from the ductwork or from within the coils and other hidden inner workings of your HVAC system
Feeling Sick More Often
Extra dust in your air can compromise the health of your family and lead to respiratory problems that may include sneezing, coughing, asthma attacks, or stubborn allergies. If you are sick more often than normal without the usual symptoms of a cold, it could be a sign of trouble within your HVAC. Mold, mildew, and dust could be making your indoor air toxic and dangerous to breathe.
Increased Heating or Cooling Bills
If you haven’t adjusted your thermostat but your bill shows evidence of more use, it could be a sign that your HVAC is working overtime to keep your home cool or warm.
Trapped dirt and debris within your ducts can cause the conditioned air to become stuck, which means it takes longer and requires more energy to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Regularly scheduled maintenance of your HVAC system can help you avoid dirty ducts in your home and keep your system running smoothly. Professional HVAC experts clean and inspect your system for any potential problems to make your indoor air quality better and ensure the good health of you and your family.
