When Is It Time for an Air Duct Cleaning Service?
Spring has officially sprung which means allergies are in full bloom. Many people in the area suffer from allergy issues and keep themselves inside as much as possible to avoid sneezing attacks and breathing issues. Even though many believe their home to be a safe haven from allergy issues, this is not always the case if your air ducts have not been cleaned in over three years. If you have not had your air ducts cleaned, here are some clues to know when it is time for an air duct cleaning service.
You Have Been Feeling Sick
If you have been feeling sick for an ongoing period without any specific illness symptoms, it could be due to dirty ducts. Mold builds up in the ducts thanks to the moisture produced by the HVAC system and the debris that is being pushed through the ducts. An air duct cleaning service can check if you have mold and then remove it for you.
You See Dust Leaving Vents
When your HVAC system kicks on, do you see dust fall from the ceiling vent or poof from the floor vent? If so, you absolutely want to try cleaning your vents first to see if that solves the problem. If the dust keeps poofing, then you want to hire an air duct cleaning service.
You Have A Vermin Problem
If you are currently battling a vermin problem, from rodents to cockroaches, you absolutely want to get your air ducts checked out. Vermin like to live in air ducts which pushes bacteria into the air. Ask your pest control company if they notice signs of vermin in the ducts for more guidance on where vermin bacteria may be lurking.
How Often Do You Need An Air Duct Cleaning Service?
How often you need to receive an air duct cleaning service depends on the above criteria as well as how many years have passed since your last service. It is recommended to have your air ducts cleaned every three to five years to maintain proper air quality. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including:
- If you move into a new home. This is a good question to ask the previous homeowner if you are moving into a new house so you know whether or not you should have those air ducts cleaned.
- If you built a new home or completed a remodeling project. The construction process kicks up a lot of debris in your home and that will find its way into the air ducts. It is no fun to breathe construction dust for years after your home is built!
- If you have multiple pets in the home. Pets increase the amount of debris that can find its way into the air duct system. If you do have pets, stick to performing an air duct cleaning service every three years.