Can dirty air ducts cause allergies? Yes, dust, pet dander, mold, dirt, and dust mites can build up in your air ducts and release into the air you breathe.
The dirty ducts themselves don’t have a direct impact on your immune system. However, the buildup of allergens prevents your HVAC system from functioning properly. Then, the airflow through the house slows, causing allergic reactions. This is especially true for kids and the elderly.
If you find yourself with a runny nose or itchy eyes at home, it may be time to clean your air ducts!
What Is Air Duct Cleaning?
Air duct cleaning is a professional service that cleans the HVAC components of a home or business. This includes the ducts, grilles, diffusers, drip pans, coils, fan motors, and fan housing. The cleaning process removes dust, dander, dirt, mold, and other allergens from the HVAC system.
Do Dirty Ducts Cause Allergies?
According to the National Health Service (NHS), dust mites and animal fur are among the main causes of allergies. If your air ducts play host for allergens, it can distribute them into the air throughout the home. Then, they pollute your home’s air, which leads to allergy symptoms.
Did you know? The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology reports that over 50 million people in the United States experience allergic reactions every year. In fact, allergies are the sixth leading cause behind chronic illness in the counrty.
Can a Cleaning an HVAC System Reduce Allergies?
There aren’t any official studies that show professional cleanings reduce allergies. However, it’s common knowledge that dust, dirt, and pet dander are common allergens. It’s very easy for these to build up in your ducts, too.
So, it’s not a stretch to say that a lack of cleaning allows them to build up. When they do, the system releases them into the air. That prevents fresh air from circulating through the home.
While there’s not much scientific evidence to answer “Can dirty ducts cause allergies,” many people experience improved allergies after a professional cleaning.
The Signs of Dirty Ducts
Now that you can see how dirty ducts can cause allergies, did you know there are other signs? Mold, higher energy bills, and reduced airflow are other common signs.
Let’s take a look.
Higher Energy Bills
Your HVAC systems uses more energy when it needs to work harder. Dirty ducts make its job more difficult, so you may see higher energy bills. If your bills shoot up, it’s time to call in a professional for a thorough cleaning.
Mold Growth
If mold grows in your ducts, the system blows spores throughout the house. This can also cause mold to grow in other parts of the home.
Poor Airflow
Poor air circulation happens when the HVAC system can’t function correctly. Moreover, it takes longer to cool and heat the house. If you come home to stale air, it’s a sign that it’s time for a cleaning.
A Musty Smell
You might notice a musty smell in your home and try to clean everything. After a few attempts, the lingering smell may point to the ducts. If you notice a musty scent, there’s a good chance your system is burning dust.
A professional cleaning can nip the problem in the bud!
Calling in the Pros
If you feel like you’ve tried everything to address your allergies, it could be the environment of your home. Your home’s air quality can impact your allergies. Moreover, the ducts are a major factor in air quality.
This is especially true in the winter months when indoor air quality dips. Contact an air duct cleaning company you trust to check out your ducts. A professional can tell you your best bet to move forward.
With clean ducts, you can enjoy better air circulation, reduced energy bills, and fewer allergens in the home. Ready for a breath of fresh air? Book an appointment with Absolute Carpet & Tile today for a professional cleaning.
