Indoor Air Quality
Can Getting Your Air Ducts Cleaned Improve Allergy Symptoms?

The air quality in your San Antonio, TX home is important for both comfort and health. If you’re prone to allergies, then you know how miserable it can be to deal with frequent sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. Since many people head indoors to find relief from seasonal outdoor allergies, it’s essential to take proactive steps to ensure optimal indoor air quality. You are diligent about keeping your house clean, but when was the last time you thought about the condition of your ductwork? Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particles can accumulate in your ducts. These particles then circulate throughout your home, worsening allergy symptoms.

How Ductwork Affects Indoor Air Quality

The ductwork in your home plays a vital role in your HVAC system by distributing heated or cooled air to each room through supply and return vents. This circulation process not only helps maintain your indoor temperature but also directly impacts your air quality.

HVAC systems include a filter designed to capture airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, and pet dander to prevent them from recirculating through your living spaces. This helps protect both your indoor air quality and the internal components of your HVAC system.

However, no filter can catch everything. Over time, smaller particles and allergens can accumulate inside your ductwork. Once these pollutants settle into your ducts, they can recirculate every time your HVAC system runs. This can trigger allergy symptoms, worsen respiratory conditions, and reduce air quality.

Allergens Found in Ductwork

Your air ducts can collect a variety of allergens and contaminants that can worsen allergy or asthma symptoms. This includes dust and dust mites, which are microscopic organisms that are part of the spider family and thrive in dusty conditions.

Seasonal pollen is another common indoor allergen. It finds its way inside through open windows, doors, or even on your clothing. For pet owners, the situation can be even more challenging. Pet dander, along with fur, can accumulate in your ducts.

High humidity levels in spring and summer can further contribute to air quality issues. Excess moisture and dark conditions create an ideal environment for mold to grow. Once established in your ductwork, mold produces spores that can spread throughout your house.

Additionally, ducts are a prime breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. They can exacerbate respiratory issues or cause illnesses.

How Often Should You Have Your Ducts Cleaned?

If you suffer from allergies or other chronic health conditions, minimizing exposure to airborne contaminants can help prevent symptoms. Having your ducts cleaned periodically is beneficial.

It’s recommended homeowners schedule a routine duct cleaning every three to five years. People who suffer from allergies should consider more frequent cleanings. If you have a pet in your home, you should also consider following a more frequent duct cleaning schedule.

In addition, professional duct cleaning is always a good idea after renovations. Construction projects produce a lot of particulate matter, which inevitably enters your ductwork.

Signs It’s Time for a Duct Cleaning

If you cannot remember the last time you had your ducts cleaned, there are several signs this service could benefit your home.

Dirty Surfaces and Air Filters

If you notice that surfaces in your home are becoming dirty soon after you clean, your ducts may be the problem. You may also see a coating of dust on your vents. Additionally, if your HVAC system’s filter needs to be changed out more often than usual, it is probably time to contact a professional to determine if dirty ductwork is causing the issue.

Increase in Allergy Symptoms

If you’ve noticed that your allergy symptoms are flaring and the pollen levels outside haven’t changed, your ducts may be to blame. Your indoor air quality may be worse than what’s outside, causing an increase in symptoms.

Mold Accumulation

If you are finding mold in your home, there’s a chance that it has made its way into your ductwork. You may see mold near your ducts or vents.

Household Odors

Odors from cooking or other household activities can get trapped in the dust inside your ducts. You will most likely notice these unpleasant smells when your heating or cooling system runs.

Changes in HVAC Performance

Dirty ductwork can cause noticeable issues with your heating and cooling system. When debris accumulates in your ducts, it restricts airflow, leading to inefficiencies and difficulty maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home. Over time, you may also notice a gradual increase in your energy bills as your system works harder to compensate for the reduced airflow.

Professional Duct Cleaning Benefits

Hiring a professional for duct cleaning is essential to ensure thorough and effective results. Experts use specialized equipment designed for the job. For example, they insert cameras into your ductwork to thoroughly inspect the interior. This allows them to identify areas needing cleaning and ensure no debris is left behind.

In addition, they use high-powered vacuums to remove dust, dirt, allergens, and other debris from every part of your ductwork. These vacuums are designed to reach even the most difficult areas, ensuring that your entire duct system is cleaned thoroughly. This deep cleaning process helps improve airflow, removes harmful particles, and enhances your home’s indoor air quality.

A trained technician can also identify any underlying issues, such as mold growth or blockages, that may be affecting your HVAC system’s performance. By addressing these concerns during the cleaning process, you can avoid potential problems in the future.

Additionally, professional duct cleaning helps extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. With cleaner ducts, your filters will work more efficiently, preventing clogs and ensuring better air circulation. The result is a healthier home environment that promotes better sleep, fewer allergy symptoms, and a more comfortable space free from outdoor pollutants.

Tips for Between Cleanings

Maintaining your HVAC system between professional duct cleanings is essential for optimal performance. One important step is changing your air filter at least every 90 days. Clean filters not only improve air quality by trapping allergens, but they also help keep your ducts cleaner by preventing dust and debris from circulating through the system. This reduces the buildup inside your ducts.

It’s also crucial to choose the right type of filter. Opt for one that effectively captures dust, pollen, and other particles without being overly restrictive. Using a filter that’s too dense can reduce airflow, potentially causing strain on your heating and cooling equipment and leading to increased wear and tear.

Every few weeks, take a moment to wipe down your vents and registers with a damp cloth. In addition, be sure to keep up with annual inspections and maintenance for your furnace and air conditioner. A professional technician can identify issues, such as dirty components or minor damage, that may lead to dirty ducts or reduced HVAC efficiency.

Contact Your Local Professionals

At Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company, we offer a range of services designed to promote healthy indoor air quality in San Antonio. They include duct inspections and duct cleaning. You can also count on us if you decide to install an air purification system. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for duct sealing with one of our experienced technicians.

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