Your home’s ducts carry air from the HVAC equipment throughout your home. Because ductwork carries air to all corners of the house, any dirt and debris in the ducts can get into every nook and cranny. It not only deposits the dust everywhere, it also lowers indoor air quality.
Preventing Dirty Ductwork in 6 Steps
- Have an annual HVAC inspection and cleaning. The coils inside the heating and cooling system can gather dirt and debris. When you turn on the system, that debris can flow through the ducts and cause them to become dirty.
- Seal vents in areas undergoing renovations. Construction work can generate sawdust, dust and other debris. That small debris can easily become airborne and infiltrate the ductwork. Make sure your general contractor seals registers in the area before any work starts.
- Make sure new ducts are cleaned after installation. Debris and oil is common in brand-new ductwork. If it;s not removed, it can cause the interior of the ducts to become contaminated and reduce indoor air quality.
- Keep your home clean. Dust and debris are a part of life. Vacuuming, dusting, sweeping and mopping regularly will keep the amount of airborne particulates to a minimum, which will help keep ducts free of dirt.
- Keep air intake vents clear from potential pollutant sources. If your air intake is close to the bathroom, for example, any mold growth in that moist space could release spores that then move into the air intake. This may cause mold growth in the ducts, as well as other parts of the house.
- Have a ductwork inspection. Every year or two, have a professional check the ducts for dirt and debris. He can also find and repair gaps that can also let debris in. Clean the ducts as needed.
If you want to learn more on preventing dirty ductwork, contact the experienced HVAC professionals at Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating
