How to Prevent Dirty Air Ducts
Air ducts are an important component of your HVAC system. All the indoor air you’re exposed to is transferred throughout your house through these air ducts. That is why it’s important to ensure they are clean and free of debris, dust, dander, pests and mold. These allergens and toxins can significantly worsen your indoor air quality, increase discomfort and even affect your unit’s performance. To help you keep your ductwork clean, the pros at Sobieski are here to tell you exactly how you can prevent dirty air ducts.
1. Change Your Air Filter
One of the easiest ways you can ensure your air ducts as well as your HVAC unit are clean is by changing your air filter. It only takes a few minutes and it can make a world of a difference. By unclogging your air filter, you can reduce your unit’s exposure to dust and debris, improve your indoor air quality and lessen your energy consumption by 5 to 15 %. Make sure you change your filter once or twice every month, depending on how many occupants (both human and animal) your home has.
2. Vacuum Your Home
Dust and debris can always find a way into your home and eventually into your ducts. In order to keep your air ducts clean, it’s important to keep your house clean. To prevent dust and dander, make sure you vacuum every week and even follow it up with a mop for a thorough cleaning. Inspect your vents and register to ensure they aren’t covered in dust. If they are, use the brush attachment on your vacuum to clean them. After that, wipe them down with a damp rag to get rid of any excess dust.
3. Have Your Ducts Inspected
If you notice a strong musty smell coming from your vents and registers, or you just can’t seem to get rid of the dust in your home, it’s time to have your ducts inspected. This is a last resort strategy, but it is effective. Having your ducts professionally inspected can prevent more problems down the line and can get rid of mold buildup, pests, dander or any other pollutant that might have invaded your air ducts.
4. Moisture Control
Mold can grow in damp, humid environments and your ductwork is no exception to it. If you already have a humidity issue in your home, your ductwork will most likely be susceptible to it as well. That’s why it is important to make sure the moisture in your home is controlled. Make use of the exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen and ensure your house is well-ventilated.
Want to Learn More About How You Can Prevent Dirty Air Ducts? Contact the Pros at Sobieski!
This guide might be helpful in preventing dirty air ducts, but it might not answer all your questions about ductwork maintenance. If you want to learn more about how you can keep your air ducts clean, get in touch with the pros at Sobieski. Call us today at 866-477-4404 or schedule an appointment online!
