Health Matters

Air Duct Cleaning: What is it and How to Do it?

If you’re wondering if air duct cleaning is necessary in your home, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking for a way to reduce dust mites, prevent mold growth, or improve your home’s air quality, You can use this page to determine whether you need to clean your air ducts.

Dust Mites

Dust mites can trigger allergies, and air duct cleaning is an excellent way to reduce their numbers. These microscopic creatures live on pillows, mattresses, and other materials used in our homes, and the accumulation of their feces can negatively affect the air in our homes. Dust mites can feed on dead skin cells, and their feces can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms in people with sensitive lungs.

The cleaner will remove these mites during a home’s air duct cleaning process. This prevents them from re-infesting your home and can reduce your allergic reaction to them. Professional cleaners can also help you with proper cleaning products like duct cleaning pensacola fl, and refer you to a pest extermination service to remove other potential pests. If you experience severe symptoms, you ought to consult a physician for a thorough examination. It’s important to rule out other possible health issues, such as anaphylaxis, before taking action.

Mold

Several types of mold can be found in your air ducts. Some are harmless, and others can be toxic to your health. Stachybotrys mold, for example, is black in color and causes respiratory problems. When inhaled, the spores of this mold can cause symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, and even headaches. If your home is infested with this mold, it’s crucial to clean your air ducts to remove the mold.

While you can attempt to clean your air ducts on your own with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and Lysol, this method can leave the mold behind. Professional remediation services will use specialized tools and chemicals that are effective against mold.

Pollen

Pollen is a common allergen known to trigger many people’s allergic reactions. This is because pollen triggers the immune system to react by producing antibodies against it. Additionally, it triggers the release of chemicals called histamine that cause unwanted symptoms. These include a blocked nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. Unfortunately, there is no cure for pollen allergies. But there are ways to reduce the pollen that enters your home, including air duct cleaning.

Regular air duct cleaning is the best way to prevent pollen from entering your home. While it may seem unnecessary, you must often change your HVAC system filters. You should also clean the interior surfaces of your home frequently.

Dust

Dust mites can live in air ducts and affect the air quality of your home in several ways. These critters in your home can aggravate your allergies and increase the chemical levels in the air. Additionally, dust mites can negatively affect indoor air quality because they feed on skin flakes.

There are numerous techniques for removing dust from air ducts. The first method is to keep your vents open. Leaving them closed all the time can trap dust and dirt inside. You can use a vacuum attachment for air duct cleaning or a broom to remove dust. Remember to return vent covers back to their original locations after cleaning.

Vermin

Cockroaches and rodents can cause respiratory problems in people and are known to carry hantaviruses. These viruses cause asthma and other respiratory disorders and can be spread by inhaling a rodent’s bodily waste or saliva. You can tell you have a problem if you notice cockroach or mouse droppings inside your ductwork. Cockroach droppings resemble coffee grounds, while mouse droppings resemble tiny grains of rice.

If you notice rodent droppings or see traces of their droppings, you may need to call an expert for an air duct cleaning. Rats and mice can chew through ductwork and cause problems for the HVAC system. These animals may also chew on wiring, which can cause a fire risk.

Mold Growth in Ducts

Mold growth in air ducts occurs when moisture collects in the ducts. The moisture is then attracted to low areas of the ducts, where it thrives. This damp, dark environment fosters the growth of various types of mold. Mold is an unsightly and annoying problem, but it can also be prevented.

The most effective method to stop mold from forming in air ducts is regularly changing air filters. Inhaling mold spores from the ducts can lead to symptoms like drowsiness, fatigue, and headaches. These symptoms may vary depending on the individual and from person to the mold amount and the inhalation duration.

Cost of Duct Cleaning

What it costs to clean your air ducts will depend on various elements such as the home’s size, the type of ducting, and where the ducts are located. Dirty air ducts can cause health problems and pose a safety risk. Additional costs may be incurred if there is a rodent infestation in the ducts. If so, an exterminator will likely be needed to clean them. Mold remediation may be required as well.

The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that homeowners have their air ducts cleaned every three to five years. If you recently bought a new home, it is also a good idea to get it cleaned. A reputable company will provide exemplary service and an upfront pricing plan.

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