An HVAC system’s air ducts are vital in delivering heated and cooled air into a house. The HVAC blower sends the air through the ducts and out the various vents. Sometimes, indoor air quality may suffer if the air ducts become dirty. It is helpful to understand common signs that the ducts might require cleaning.
Odors
If you detect odors coming from the ducts and vents, that could be a sign something is wrong. Having things checked out and cleaned might be advisable. Cleaning the ducts may be enough to remove the smell. It is also an opportunity to see if you have leaks in your ducts in areas like crawl spaces.
Dirty Vents
If dust, dirt, cobwebs, and other debris are collecting on the vents, such things might also be inside the air ducts. While some dust may collect in the air intake prior to the catchment filter, dust coming out of outflow vents is a sure sign that it’s coming from somewhere within the system.
Is the airflow coming through the vents weak? That could be another indicator the ducts or the intake filter require cleaning. Lincoln and Central Illinois residents could call Quick Comfort for assistance with cleaning an HVAC. Our team handles HVAC maintenance and repair duties.
Clogged Filters
Filters are designed to trap debris. Because of this, they need to be regularly cleaned or changed in order to maintain adequate airflow in your ductwork. When they clog up quickly and frequently, it could be a sign of an additional air quality issue. If your filter doesn’t have an adequate seal, the dust is likely to also be present within your ductwork.
A clogged filter could present other problems since air cannot circulate properly when the unit needs a new filter. The HVAC might not run efficiently, leading to energy waste, and the clog could undermine airflow, potentially resulting in damage or wear to your HVAC unit.
Visible Mold and Mildew
If you see mold and mildew growing on, in, or around the HVAC system, a thorough inspection and cleaning might be long past due. Mold and mildew inside the home could present health hazards.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance can help to keep your ducts from getting too clogged. Scheduling routine HVAC maintenance could keep the system from becoming unnecessarily dirty. You can ask during your maintenance visit if they recommend duct cleaning at that time. They may also be able to provide you with a recommended schedule.
At Quick Comfort, our team is here to assist with heating, cooling, duct cleaning, and indoor air quality work. We hire NATE-certified technicians to handle the job. Please call our office for more information.
