Dream Steam Blog

Air Duct Cleaning 101: Are Airborne Pollutants Harming Your Family?

Feb 6, 2020 2:45:00 PM / by Brant Hambly

couple sitting on gray couch with dog and catAs with any portion of your home, your HVAC system should be cleaned periodically to ensure that it continues to function properly. However, in addition to functionality, an air duct cleaning can also be important to the health of your family.

 

Why should you clean your air ducts?

 

While the EPA states that it is currently not proven that cleaning your air duct will prevent health problems in terms of airborne pollutants, the duct system can distribute harmful contaminants throughout the home.

 

Air ducts take air in and push air out with dust, dirt, hair, allergens, and more. If you have sensitive allergies or asthma, you may be more reactive to lower quality air due to a dirty air duct. If you have pets and cigarette smoke in your home, your system may need to be cleaned more often. Consider having your air duct cleaned as soon as possible if there is visible mold on any part of your HVAC system, your ducts are invested with vermin, or ducts are excessively clogged with dust and dirt.

 

In addition to health concerns, cleaning your air duct can be more energy efficient and cost-effective. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), contaminants in the system cause it to work harder and potentially shorten the life of your system.

 

What should you expect?

 

Your air duct isn’t the only part of the system that should be cleaned. In fact, the entire HVAC system should be cleaned. If not, the dirt and contaminates in one part of the system will re-contaminate the duct and any other parts of the system.

 

Duct cleaning should not be a DIY project. If improperly done, more indoor air problems can occur. You can expect cleaning professionals to use either truck-mounted or portable vacuums to get the system cleaned to the NADCA Standard.

 

Who should handle it?

 

The cleaning of your HVAC system should be taken seriously and done by a professional that you can trust to meet the highest standards. Companies that are NADCA members meet strict requirements for membership and are a good starting point in your search for the right service to handle your cleaning.

 

When should they be cleaned?

 

It’s recommended to clean your air ducts every three to five years, or when needed. If you have new home construction or renovation, water contamination, pets, cigarette smoke, or family members with sensitivities, there may be reason for a cleaning sooner than the recommended time.

 

Your home’s health is important for your health. Keeping the systems of your home clean and functioning properly should be a top priority. If you’re not sure if your HVAC system needs to be cleaned, consider calling a professional to examine the state of your ducts before you commit to a cleaning. 

 

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Topics: Insider

Written by Brant Hambly