It is no surprise that most people do not give the ductwork for their HVAC system much thought until there is a major problem with it. Having your ducts regularly inspected and cleaned can alert you to problems early before they become major.
It is recommended that most Jacksonville homes have their ductwork inspected and cleaned at least every three to five years or sooner if needed. However, if you are between cleanings or cannot remember the last time your ducts were serviced, you should pay attention to these five signs that you need cleaning.
#1. Your Home Has a Stale or Musty Smell
You might not notice that your home has a stale or musty smell at first. However, you will probably notice the smell if you return after being away for a few days or visitors to your home might notice. Smells like this are a telltale sign that your air ducts could use a cleaning. Most odors are caused by mold and mildew that has happily settled into any dust, pet hair, dander, and any other debris that has accumulated inside your ducts.
#2. You or Your Family Are Having More Respiratory Issues
If you or your family seem to be having more allergy issues, more colds or upper respiratory infections, or increased asthma attacks, the reason could be lurking in your air ducts. A buildup of pollen, dust, dust mites, mold, or mildew leads to poor indoor air quality that can worsen existing respiratory problems. Your vents could also be harboring bacteria and viruses that can grow in the duct’s dark environment, and then be dispersed throughout the air in your home.
#3. You See a Buildup of Dust and Dirt Around Your Vents
A buildup of dust and dirt around your air vents and returns could be a sign that it is time for a cleaning. Every time air passes through your ductwork, it can be picking up particles of dust and other debris along with it. The result is you will find more dust build up around the rest of your home, too.
#4. Your Air Filters Need to Be Replaced More than Once a Month
As a rule, you should be checking your HVAC system’s air vents at least once a month, especially during times of high use. If you see that your filters are becoming clogged with more dust and debris that usual, it could be that your air ducts need cleaning.
#5. There’s Mold Growing Around Your Vents
Every Floridian knows it is a constant battle to fight high humidity in your home, and your HVAC system plays a big part in that fight. However, if you are seeing mold growing around your vents, it is likely coming from your air ducts. Mold is a leading cause of many respiratory problems. Therefore, you should get your air ducts checked out right away.
If you are experiencing one or more of these warning signs or your ducts have not been cleaned in years, now is the time to act. The experts at Snyder Heating & Air Conditioning now offer air duct cleaning services to our customers to get you back on track. Contact us today to schedule your service.
