It’s not often that we think about air duct cleaning unless there’s been a recent change in air quality. Maybe you’ve started to experience allergies or asthma symptoms more frequently, or you’ve just noticed an unpleasant smell.
While any of these signs may not cause alarm, it’s essential to keep track of any changes in your health and investigate what might be causing them. Frequently, the answer is dirty air ducts, and you need duct cleaning instantly.
Here are some usual clues that it might be time for an immediate air duct cleaning treatment:
1. Clogged Vents and Ducts
Your home’s ventilation system is designed to bring fresh air in and circulate it throughout your house. However, vents and ducts can become clogged with dust, pet hair, and debris over time. This reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system and can lead to poor indoor air quality.
Dust and other particulates can form in your ductwork and be released into the air every time your heater or air conditioner kicks on.
If you notice that your vents are starting to get clogged or that the airflow from your registers is becoming restricted, it’s probably time to do duct cleaning.
2. Blockage in Air Filters
The filter can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other particulates. When this happens, your furnace has to work harder to push air through the ducts, reducing its efficiency and leading to higher energy bills.
Worse yet, a clogged filter can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down prematurely. Cleaning or replacing your air filter regularly is essential to keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently.
3. Vermin Infestation
Mice, rats, and other pests can enter the ducts through small openings and begin to build nests. Not only is this filthy, but it can also be dangerous. Vermin can carry diseases and parasites circulating through the air in your home.
Additionally, their droppings can contaminate your air supply and lead to serious respiratory problems. If you speculate that your air ducts may be infested with vermin, it is vital to have them cleaned by a professional as soon as possible.
4. Noisy Duct Work
One of the most common signs that it’s time to clean your air ducts is if you start hearing strange noises coming from them. This could be anything from a low rumble to a high-pitched squeal, and it’s usually caused by built-up debris inside the ducts.
If left unchecked, this debris can eventually cause the chimneys to collapse, creating even more noise and putting your family at risk of serious injuries.
5. Dust Production
One clue that it’s time to clean your air ducts is if your house is always dusty. Even if you vacuum and dust regularly, there’s always a layer of dust on surfaces. If you have allergies or asthma, this can worsen your symptoms since you’re constantly breathing in the dust.
Another clue is if you see dust coming out of the vents when the furnace or air conditioner is on. This means the dust isn’t being trapped in the ducts and is being circulated through your house. If you have pets, their dander can accumulate in the ducts and be distributed throughout your home. To get rid of the dust, have your air ducts cleaned by a certified professional.
Conclusion
Although you may not be apt to see them, air ducts are breeding grounds for dirt, dust, and allergens. The earlier you address the air duct issue, the less money and time you’ll need to spend on extensive repairs.
If you’re noticing any signs outlined in this post, it’s time to call a professional for immediate duct cleaning. Contact Duct Doctor Birmingham today to get started on duct cleaning in Birmingham, Al – our team is standing by, ready to help!