How Do I Know if I Need My AC Ducts Cleaned?

A dirt ductwork system hampers indoor air quality and can lead to serious health issues if not cleaned on time. AC duct systems are comprised of a set of tubes that deliver fresh, clean and cool air throughout your home. While the expert recommended cleaning time of the AC ducts is on an as-needed basis, many homeowners are often unsure when should they opt a professional air duct cleaning. Here is a list of five signs that indicate that the AC ducts require an immediate cleaning.

A Sudden Spike in Energy Bill:
Due to the accumulation of dirt, dust, and debris, most AC ducts get clogged over a period of time. Clogged AC ducts not only release polluted air into your home, but they also affect the system efficiency leading to an over-working HVAC system. The reason for your very high energy bills can be your clogged or leaked ducts.

Signs of Mold:
AC ducts, when not cleaned for a long time, have a tendency to retain moisture. The presence of moisture in ducts leads to mold growth, and it hampers the air-quality drastically. Mold spores can cause severe health hazards including breathing problems, seasonal allergies, and possible respiratory infections. Closely check the duct vents in each room to see any signs of molds. Any visible presence of mold in your ducts indicates that you should go for a professional cleaning.

Pest Infestation:
Before calling the pest control to deal with rodents and pests infestation, consider an AC duct inspection to find insect parts or rodent fecal waste inside AC ducts. Scratch marks in ducts also mean higher chances of rodent infestation, and your ducts should be cleaned as soon as possible.

Leaky Ducts:
Any leak in your AC duct system can dramatically reduce the performance of your HVAC system. Duct leakage is a major reason for energy loss too. Plus, the moisture from the leaking ducts promotes mold growth and attracts airborne pollutants that in turn lead to a poor indoor air quality.

Presence of CO Gas:
If your CO detector shows traces of the presence of this poisonous gas, then your duct system needs an inspection. Even though fireplace and fuel burning stove are the main reason for carbon monoxide in the indoor air, clean AC ducts can help combat this hazard.

If you find any of these above-listed signs and decide to go for an air duct cleaning, then choose a professional duct cleaning service in your city. A professional air duct inspection not only reveals the presence of debris in your ducts, but it also analyzes the health of your HVAC system. All Seasons in Tacoma, WA offers professional air duct inspection, preventive maintenance for HVAC units, and indoor air quality assessment. Keeping your ducts clean is the easiest way to maintain your indoor air quality. Contact us today!