The air quality in your home can have a direct impact on your health. In fact, the EPA has stated that indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental health risks. Dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens can all become trapped in your ductwork, recirculating through your home every time your furnace or air conditioner runs. Regular duct cleaning can help to remove these contaminants, improving the air quality in your home and helping you and your family to breathe easier.
What is an air duct and why does it need to be cleaned?
An air duct is a system of connected pipes and channels that moves air throughout your home. Your furnace and air conditioner rely on the ductwork to circulate heated or cooled air throughout the house. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can build up in the ductwork, reducing its efficiency and causing the quality of the air in your home to suffer.
How often should air ducts be cleaned?
There is no hard and fast rule for how often you should have your air ducts cleaned. However, the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends that homeowners have their ductwork inspected every few year and cleaned as needed. If you have pets, live in an area with a lot of dust or pollen, or if someone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, you may need to have your ducts cleaned more frequently.
What are the benefits of air duct cleaning?
There are many benefits to having your air ducts cleaned on a regular basis. In addition to improving the air quality in your home, duct cleaning can also help to:
- Remove dust and other allergens from your home– This can be especially beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or asthma.
- Improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system- When your ductwork is clogged with dust and debris, your furnace and air conditioner have to work harder to circulate air throughout your home. This can lead to higher energy bills and shortened lifespans for your HVAC equipment.
- Prevent the growth of mold– Mold spores can enter your ductwork through open doors and windows, and they can quickly multiply in the dark, moist environment of your ducts. Duct cleaning can help to remove these spores before they have a chance to take hold and grow.
- Eliminate unpleasant odors– If your ductwork is full of dust and debris, it can start to smell musty. Duct cleaning can help to remove the source of the odor and leave your home smelling fresh and clean.
Where to find professionals that offer air duct cleaning services in Kansas City?
If you’re interested in having your air ducts cleaned, the first step is to find a reputable, certified professional to do the job. The NADCA provides a list of certified air duct cleaners on their website, so that’s a great place to start your search. You can also ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
Once you’ve found a few potential candidates, be sure to ask each one for a written estimate of the cost of the job. This will help you to compare prices and make sure you’re getting the best possible value for your money.
When it comes to air duct cleaning, regularity is key. By having your ducts cleaned every few years, you can help to improve the air quality in your home and create a healthier environment for you and your family.
