Air ducts are used in HVAC systems to deliver and remove warmed and cooled air, but they can also be the site of toxic airborne contaminants. Animal dander, dust, mold spores and other contaminants can be found lurking in your ductwork. These toxins can be circulated through your ventilation system, decreasing the indoor air quality (IAQ) of your home and the efficiency of your HVAC system. This, however, can be avoided with annual ductwork cleaning. There are many reasons why you should have your ducts cleaned. But, before you can reap the benefits of a professional duct cleaning, you need to know exactly what it is that’s lurking in your ducts.
Living Organisms
Airborne toxins are essentially divided into two categories: living and non-living organisms. Living organisms include bacteria, dust mites, mold spores and viruses. They generally grow in smaller numbers than non-living organisms, but they’re more toxic to your health and home.
For example, dust mites and mold spores are lung irritants that can cause or exacerbate respiratory illness, such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This could cause adverse effects on your health or even become fatal. Bacteria and viruses can cause many other types of illnesses, which could also seriously affect your health.
Non-living Organisms
Non-living organisms are basically bits and pieces from living organisms. These contaminants include, pet and insect dander, dust and pollen. They’re mostly lung irritants that cause coughing and sneezing. This can be the most problematic for allergy sufferers, as it can cause constant watery eyes and swollen sinuses.
Benefits of Duct Cleaning
It doesn’t matter what nasty contaminants you have in your ductwork, you should take steps to have them removed. Over time, odors and dangerous contaminants can buildup and circulate through your vents, putting your home and health at risk. Routine duct cleaning can counteract this, as well as offer some other benefits. The benefits of having your ductwork cleaned include:
- Increases the energy efficiency of your HVAC system
- Reduces energy bills
- Reduces the potential for mold growth
- Improves IAQ
- Eliminates years of dirt and dust buildup
- Prevents unnecessary repairs to heating and cooling units
- Reduces health risks for those with respiratory or autoimmune illnesses
- Remediates mold, fungi and bacteria
- Restores ductwork to pre-damage condition
If you’re ready to experience the many benefits of duct cleaning for yourself, give us a call to schedule an appointment.
