Top 3 Warning Indicators That It's Time For Air Duct Cleaning
ShareAir ducts circulate warm and cool air around your home. Like most household systems, regular air duct cleaning is crucial in ensuring its proper function and efficiency. In addition, scheduling for professional cleaning of your HVAC ducts has plenty of benefits, from reduced heating and cooling costs to better health for your family. But, how can you tell that it's time to clean your air ducts? Here are a few warning signs to watch out for.
1. An unexplained rise in your energy costs
The energy costs from heating and cooling your home have to be consistent from year to year. However, if you notice sudden spikes in your energy bills, your duct system might be the problem. Remember, when your air duct is dirty, it becomes impossible for air to move efficiently throughout your air conditioning system.
In such cases, your system will need to work extra hard to maintain optimum temperature, resulting in high energy costs. That said, hiring an air duct expert is critical to get rid of harmful contaminants and ruling out the possibility of leaks, one of the leading causes of spikes in your energy bill.
2. The presence of mold growth
Your air conditioning system can develop condensation, resulting in mold growth in your ductwork. This is especially the case if you're living in a humid climate. One of the notable places to keep an eye for mold is around the vent covers. Given that it can be challenging to detect mold in your air duct visually, a crucial warning indicator is a musty smell.
Therefore, seeking the services of an air duct cleaning professional will help remediate this problem and prevent its return. It's also essential that you monitor your moisture levels by investing in a programmable thermostat or a dehumidifier.
3. Visible signs of rodents or insect infestation
Your air duct makes a perfect hiding place for rodents that chew their way in or find unsealed access. If your ductwork is infested with rodents, some noticeable signs include a foul smell, chewed-up materials, or rodent droppings. Besides rodents, insects can still wreak havoc to your heating and cooling system if not properly handled. Some of the tell-tale signs you have insect infestation include the presence of insect husks and shells.
Timely air duct cleaning from an expert is crucial as soon as you notice insect or rodent infestation. These professionals clean and remove waste or debris left behind and fix any unsealed access. Choosing to ignore this concern can lead to severe structural damage and an inefficient air conditioning system.
Watching out for the signs of air duct cleaning is key to maintaining an excellent home climate throughout the year. So, act fast as soon as you notice any of these signs.