Why Air Ducts Affect Indoor Air Quality
Everyone has a spring cleaning checklist that looks different from everyone else's, but the goal is the same: whip the house back into shape after winter. Most lists will include deep cleaning tasks like laundering bedding and curtains and cleaning closets. But, nearly every checklist neglects one of the most powerful actions a homeowner could take to keep their home safe and clean.
Getting the ductwork cleaned during spring cleaning is the one step that ensures the success of every checklist. This article is a quick guide that explains why and when to schedule an air duct cleaning visit.
Reasons to Schedule Air Duct Cleaning
Better indoor air quality resulting from clean air ducts can lead to things like:
- Cleaner home
- Fewer allergies
- Fewer sinus infections
- Decreased asthma complications
- Better skin and eye health
Signs That It's Time for Air Duct Cleaning
Air duct cleaning may not be necessary every year. Experts recommend that air ducts be cleaned every three to five years, but homeowners can look for signs that they need to be cleaned during a spring cleaning checklist. To determine if it's time to clean the ducts, be on the lookout for:
- Inconsistent airflow
- Bad or musty odors
- Mildew growth around AC registers
- Dust buildup on AC supply and return grates
- Constant respiratory symptoms
- High levels of dust on surfaces in the home
Keeping the Air Ducts Clean After a Cleaning
Professional duct cleaning is a quick and easy process, but most people want to know how to maximize their results. The best way to ensure that ducts stay clean in between cleanings is to:
- Replace the Air Filters: This is the most important step of AC maintenance, but it also keeps dust and allergens out of the ductwork. As a bonus, cleaner air filters keep dust levels down around the home. Change air filters at least quarterly for best results.
- Use Better Air Filters: Often, homeowners will use cheap air filters in addition to not changing them enough. Upgrading the type of air filter used can make a huge difference in the amount of dust that the filter catches. For added filtration, homeowners can look into small air filters that can handle individual rooms or look into higher grade filtration systems installed into existing equipment.
- Install UV Sanitizers: UV sanitizers can be installed into existing AC systems. These easy-to-maintain devices use UV light to pulverize dust, bacteria, and allergens, reducing the amount that makes it into ductwork and air in the home.
- Keep the House Clean: Keeping the house cleaner can reduce the load on the AC. Regularly washing bedding, keeping pets clean, and vacuuming is great places to start.
About 360 Air Tech
Need help keeping the air safe for the family? Partner with 360 Air Tech. Their experienced technicians can find solutions to fit every home and budget. Call today for guaranteed AC service in Williamsburg, VA.
