The Importance of Routine Ductwork Care
We put so much effort into cleaning our homes, yet the network of ducts that deliver air into every room often becomes neglected. Ductwork can become dusty, moldy, and contaminated with airborne pathogens, which is why regular air duct maintenance is so important. If you’re wondering the importance of routine ductwork care, read on.
Just like every other part of your home, your air ducts become dirty over time. Since air blows through these ducts every day throughout the year, any contaminants that have built up in the system will eventually become airborne in your house. This can have an extremely negative impact on the quality of the air your family is breathing.
Maintaining a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Ideally, homeowners should plan to have their ductwork professionally cleaned once per year. This will eliminate any dust and other contaminants before they build up to the point where they might affect your indoor air quality.
The absolute longest you should go between cleanings is three years. While an annual cleaning is the golden rule, stretching your next cleaning out to the two- or three-year mark is doable, particularly if you live in a newer home with an efficient air filtration system. Older homes, which tend to have more dust and mold issues, should schedule more frequent duct cleanings.
Signs That It Is Time for Air Duct Maintenance
If you are finding that you need to dust more often, this is a tell-tale sign that your ducts are dirty. Increased coughing and sneezing, or other allergic symptoms, can also mean that your ductwork is blowing dust and other allergens out into your home. If anyone in your house is experiencing breathing difficulties, getting the ducts cleaned should definitely be a priority.
When You May Need More Frequent Duct Cleanings
We’ve established that having the ducts cleaned every one to three years should be sufficient for most households, however, in some cases, it is recommended to engage in more frequent maintenance.
If any of the following factors apply to you, you should never go more than 6-12 months without having your ductwork thoroughly vacuumed and sanitized:
- You live in an older home
- Someone in your household suffers from allergies or asthma
- You have pets
- You live in an area where there is poor air quality
- Someone in your household is a smoker
- Your house is prone to musty or mildewy smells
- Your house is prone to rodent infestations
What Is the Best Time of Year for a Cleaning?
If you are only going to schedule a cleaning once per year, either winter or spring is a great time to do it. In late spring, pollen can build up in your ductwork, really impacting your indoor air quality. In the winter, there is less fresh air circulating inside, which can cause toxins and debris to become more concentrated inside ducts.
If your home is ready for a thorough duct cleaning, contact us today at Dryer Ducks. We can schedule a professional cleaning that will promote better air quality in your home.
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