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Free EstimateYou probably know it is important to change the air filter on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to keep it running properly. But how often should air ducts be cleaned? Professionals recommend having your duct system cleaned every three to five years.
The Need for Air Duct Cleaning
You know the air filter on your HVAC system must be changed regularly because of the dirt and dust particles that collect on it. This debris clogs the filter, and your system struggles to maintain the airflow. It is much like trying to breathe with something over your face—you must work harder to take enough air into your lungs.
Changing your filter is a good start, but the dirt, dust, and debris that gets past the filter can build up inside the duct system over time. It does not take long before areas of ductwork have large deposits of this debris build-up. The restricted airflow leads to higher maintenance costs and shortens the life of your system overall.
Air Quality in Your Area
How often air ducts should be cleaned can depend on the air quality where you live. There are pollutants and pollen in the air everywhere, and Florida is no exception. Residents of areas with reduced air quality from pollution may need to consider checking their system more often.
Common causes of debris build-up in your air duct system include:
- Pollen
- Dust
- Dander
- Hair
- Pollutants
Mildew or Mold in the System
If your air ducts show signs of mold or mildew, it is recommended that you have your system cleaned. Mold and mildew often cause an earthy and musty odor and can result from moisture inside your duct system. This can potentially lead to respiratory health problems if left unresolved.
Family Member Allergies and Unexplained Illnesses
The allergens, pollen, dirt, and dust building up in your duct system are possibly being recirculated back through your home and the air you breathe. If you have a family member with allergies or a respiratory illness, you should consider the possibility that the debris build-up in your air ducts may be causing or aggravating their issues. Unexplained respiratory troubles are also a reason to have your air duct system checked.
Pets Increase System Build-Up
Pets that shed excessively in the home can greatly increase debris build-up in your air duct system. Pets that go outside often increase dust and pollen build-up.
When you move to a new residence, family members with pet allergies could have a health issue if a former resident had pets. Lingering pet hair and dander in the air vent system could be to blame.
Environmental Protection Agency Recommendations
Although the Environmental Protection Agency does not suggest a specific schedule for having your duct system cleaned, they do recommend having it cleaned anytime you notice developing respiratory or allergy issues.
Other times they say it should be considered can include when you move into a new residence or notice a moldy or musty odor coming from your vents.
Visual Inspection
If you have concerns about your air duct system or if you have moved to a new residence, then it is not difficult to ease your concerns and give yourself some peace of mind. By removing a few of the air vent covers throughout your home, you can get a better view of the system from the inside. Things to look for include areas of debris build-up and signs of mold or mildew.
Another cause for concern is if you can detect the presence of mice in your ducts. Mice use air ducts to get inside your home. They can wreak havoc on the duct system by making nests in the debris build-up, potentially restricting airflow through your system.
Air Duct Services with Cameras
You may have heard about air duct cleaning services that attempt to charge customers for services not rendered. It is preferable to use professional services who do not just tell you what they find but also show you.
This is possible by using equipment with cameras that allow you to see exactly what the professionals are dealing with. When you schedule an air duct cleaning service that uses cameras, like First Clast Home Pros, you can watch the removal of the debris build-up and see the results for yourself.
First Coast Home Pros Provide Professional Service You Can Trust
Our teams are made up of certified industry professionals who take great pride in the work they do. These award-winning service providers look forward to providing you with great service again and again. First Coast Home Pros has teams that can handle other needs as well, including the following:
We are confident that you will be completely happy with our services. If you are not satisfied for any reason, you have a full week to contact us so that we can make things right. Contact First Coast Home Pros today to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate with our certified industry professionals.