preparing your air conditioning unit for summer use

Cleaning the ducting is an often overlooked type of essential HVAC maintenance. The buildup of dust and dirt in this system can lead to various issues throughout the home. These deposits could reduce airflow, increase allergy symptoms, and even fire hazards.

Reduced Allergy Symptoms

Dirty air ducts can lead to severe allergy problems for you and your family. As a result, it is often advisable for those with asthma or other respiratory issues to clean their ducting more often. Otherwise, they may experience chronic symptoms that could greatly reduce their health and quality of life. Removing the dust and dirt from the ducting prevents them from becoming airborne and lowers the home's interior air quality. After cleaning the ducting, installing air purifying systems can reduce the tendency of these accumulations to gather in the ducting. Also, being diligent about changing the AC system's air filters can further reduce the ability of dust to collect in your system.

Fire Mitigation

While air quality improvements are a leading reason to have the air ducting cleaned, this can also help prevent fires in your home. Lint, dust, and other debris can accumulate in your ductwork. These items can be highly flammable. If a fire were to start in the ducting, it could rapidly spread. Due to the location of the flames, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and suppression systems may not be effective. Cleaning the ducting removes these substances before they can pose a fire threat to your home.

Improved Airflow Through The Ducting

Poor airflow through the ducting can severely reduce the performance of your HVAC system. Unfortunately, dirty air ducts can drastically reduce airflow, which results in higher energy costs and worse comfort. Routinely cleaning the ducting removes these substances from deep within the ducting system. This is especially important for the vents and turns in the ducting. Dust accumulations in these areas can have a disproportionate impact on airflow. As a result of these issues, you may find that your home's energy costs are lowered after a thorough duct cleaning.

Remove Odors

Unfortunately, ducting can be a source of unpleasant odors in your home. Dust and dander in the ducting can cause the home to develop a stale and musty smell. Those with pets or small children may find this to be especially true. During the cleaning process, the ducting will be sanitized to eliminate the bacteria or other substances that could cause these odors. By regularly cleaning the ducting, you can keep your home smelling fresh and clean.

If you want to get more information, contact air conditioning maintenance services near you.