When determining the benefits of different cleaning practices for your health and well being, there is no one clear-cut answer. However, in general, cleaning removes harmful germs and other contaminants that might be bad for your health. Your air ducts are no different.
Air ducts should be cleaned regularly for optimum performance, about every two to five years. However, if you notice the following conditions, then your air ducts need to be cleaned much sooner to prevent negative consequences for you and your family’s overall health.
1. You suspect mold in the air ducts
No one wants mold in their home, especially because it can be very dangerous. Breathing in mold spores can cause a variety of respiratory complications: it can worsen asthma symptoms, can lead to serious infections in elderly individuals or others who are immunocompromised, and it can cause even healthy people without conditions to cough and wheeze. Some people with allergies or who develop allergies can also have dangerous allergic reactions. Look around vents and shine a light into ducts, looking discolored spots and blotchy growths. Notice if there is a musty smell. Ask one of your local air duct cleaning services to do an inspection, as there may be mold growing deeper in the system and out of sight. Remember that the best way to verify the presence of a mold species is to have a sample tested in a professional lab. Furthermore, if the source of the moisture that allows mold to grow is not addressed, mold will likely return after your air duct cleaning.
2. You suspect pest infestation
Mold is not the only species that can invade your duct system– other vermin, like mice, rats, termites, and other intruders can live in your air ducts, making extermination especially difficult. Pests and their droppings can carry diseases that you probably don’t want to be blown around through your home’s ventilation system. If you suspect pests in your vents, it’s time to get them clean.
3. The ducts are so clogged that they’re emitting visible debris
You may think that a dusty vent is common, and you are partially right. However, if the vent is so clogged and full that visible particles are ejected when the blower turns on, it may be time for a cleaning. After all, it’s not only harmless dust that lives in those clumps. 80% of people in the US experience dust mites exposure on a daily basis and 60% are exposed to pet dander. Having such substances in your home’s air can cause health problems for anyone, especially those with asthma and allergies.
Protecting indoor air quality is important to your health. For those who have sensitive sinuses, lung conditions or weakened immune systems, clean air is absolutely essential. If you notice any of these three issues, contact a National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NACDA) certified local air duct cleaning service. After all, your health depends on it.