Oftentimes, it’s the elements that are right in front of our eyes that garner the most attention.

From dirty dishes to mold on your ceiling vents or water spots on the walls, what you can see is, simply put, what you usually tackle first.

So, at what point do you look inward (well, deeper inside of your property, that is)? Specifically, when and why should you pay attention to your air ducts, the likes of which you never really see during your day?

Air Ducts? Meet Air Quality

Did you know that cleaning your air ducts may help to reduce the circulation of airborne contaminants in your property?

“Air pollutants such as pollen and mold can be lurking in your home’s air ducts,” according to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NACDA). “They settle in the ductwork and when your air conditioner or heater gets turned on can make their way into your living area, where they are easily breathed in.”

In other words, your air ducts may be out of sight, but they should not be out of mind. As they collect contaminants, become subject to moisture intrusion, or unwittingly act as a haven to vermin, they can negatively impact your health.

For this reason, it’s important to regularly inspect and maintain your HVAC system, as a properly-functioning HVAC is less likely to lead to air duct pollution.

To Clean Or Not To Clean

Perhaps you already invest in regular HVAC maintenance, or perhaps you’re simply wondering whether it would be worth it to go ahead and schedule an air duct inspection and/or cleaning in the near future.

In either case, there are some good rules of thumb to follow when determining if you need to pick up the phone. Specifically, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends having your air ducts cleaned if and when…

• Mold growth is visible on hard surfaces
• Rodents, insects, or other pests have infiltrated the air ducts
• Debris, dust, and other particles have effectively clogged the ducts

Additionally, if you have insulated air ducts, you may also want to get them inspected if you have reason to believe the insulation may be damaged or subject to moisture intrusion.

Pitting Pollutants Against Professionals

“PREVENTION of duct contamination is KEY to avoiding problems,” the National Institutes of Health’s Division of Occupational Health and Safety (DOHS) clarified.

What’s more, clean air ducts alone will not guarantee healthy indoor air quality. After all, your home is a breathing entity unto itself whose air may be impacted by a multitude of environmental factors.

Thus, not only is HVAC maintenance paramount in maintaining your air ducts but, if your home may be at risk for worsened air quality, it’s time to schedule a Healthy Building Check-Up with Luce Air Quality, your local environmental experts!

Proper prevention starts with a professional assessment. Be it mold, water damage, asbestos, or something else, our team is certified and licensed to identify the contaminant(s) and provide you with trusted solutions for optimizing your indoor air quality.

If you’re ready to schedule your assessment, or if you have further questions, simply contact Luce Air Quality today by calling 904-803-1014 or emailing info@luceairquality.com!