If you or a member of your family has asthma, you might wonder if the indoor air quality at home worsens symptoms. You’ve probably even looked into air duct cleaning before but hesitated because you weren’t sure if it was necessary. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, regularly scheduled air duct cleanings are unnecessary, as dirt and dust are probably not being circulated through your home and worsening symptoms of asthma. There are, however, a few instances where dirty ducts might affect asthmatics.

When Do Dirty Ducts Negatively Affect Asthmatics?

1. Mold Growth

If you suspect mold growth, call for a professional inspection and get a sample to have it tested. If there is mold growing in the ducts, a simple air duct cleaning probably won’t be sufficient. You’ll need to work with a company that specializes in mold remediation to ensure all traces of the fungi and sources of moisture are eliminated. Only then will asthmatics begin to see improvements in their symptoms.

2. Rodent or Insect Infestations

When an infestation occurs, rodents and insects leave behind feces, which contain bacteria and diseases. This is detrimental to the health of you and your family and must be addressed promptly to alleviate symptoms of asthma and prevent more serious illnesses. After working with an exterminator, you’ll need to find an air duct cleaning company that’s equipped to handle the aftermath of an infestation.

3. Excessive Dirt & Dust

It’s difficult to define what a “normal” amount of dirt and dust is and what’s excessive, so in this case, use your best judgment or seek the opinion of a professional. If there’s visible clogging of the ducts from dirt and dust or you can see it coming out of the supply registers, a thorough air duct cleaning is probably needed.

These instances not only worsen symptoms in asthmatics but can also produce allergic reactions in healthy individuals as well. In some cases, particularly with mold growth, it might be a better investment to skip the cleaning and replace the ductwork instead. The reliable professionals at America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services can determine whether asthmatic symptoms would improve with an air duct cleaning or not. They also handle mold testing and remediation so that you can rid your Rochester, MN, home of the harmful fungi. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (507) 280-8171 to request a free estimate.