Here’s a guide to the ways different contaminants inside your air duct can impact the health of your household, as prepared by the professional Denver air duct sanitizing service team here at Air Improvement Denver.
What are the main contaminants that are housed in air ducts?
- Dust and dirt from regular activities like vacuuming and cooking, or from the outdoors
- Moisture due to weather, bathrooms / kitchens, or high humidity which creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria
- Outdoor pollutants like pollen, chemicals from cleaning or the air, or volatile organic compounds
How can contaminants in your air ducts affect your health?
- Allergies caused by dust, pollen, and pet dander can cause symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, and coughing
- Respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, or others can be caused or exacerbated by mold spores or bacterial growth
- General fatigue and malaise can be caused by poor air quality
What are the main signs of air duct contamination?
- Visible dust or debris blowing out of air vents or accumulating sound vents
- Unpleasant odors, specifically musty smells
- Uneven or diminished air flow coming from vents
- Rooms cooling or heating unevenly
- Sudden health issues especially respiratory symptoms
What will professional air duct cleaning include?
- Full air duct system inspection including the farthest reaches of your ductwork
- Professional cleaning of ductwork using high powered vacuums and brushes, covering all components of your HVAC system including coils, ducts, and fans
- Sanitizing of air ducts using EPA-approved, environmentally friendly sanitizing solutions
- Potential sealing of air duct leaks
What are the best ways to keep your air ducts clean over time?
- Have air duct filters replaced between every 1-3 months
- Have air ducts professionally cleaned at least once a year, and more often if you have pets or smokers in your home
- Quickly fix leaks in walls, roofs, and plumbing to prevent moisture buildup. Open windows in kitchens and bathrooms to allow moisture to escape, and use dehumidifiers if your environment is very humid
- Regular vacuum your carpets rugs, and upholstery
- Consider purchasing HEPA air filters to trap particulate matter
- Do not smoke, and regularly groom your pets