Spring may be over, but allergy season lasts through the summer. Although allergies can be irritating and stressful, there are several practical steps you can take around the home to improve air quality and reduce your symptoms. One of the most effective of these is air duct cleaning.

Common Causes of Poor Air Quality

Sometimes people assume that allergy season only exists outdoors. However, many of the irritants that hamper air quality and irritate allergies come from inside the home. Indoor air pollutants come from a number of sources, including activities such as cooking and cleaning.

Air ducts help filter the air in our home of contaminants, particularly with our heating and cooling systems. Without proper maintenance and duct cleaning, irritants may affect the quality of air and contribute to allergic reactions and symptoms, including dust mites, pollen, mold, mildew, pet dander, and cigarette smoke. Hiring an HVAC contractor for air duct cleaning helps reduce airborne allergens in the home’s air filtration systems.

Signs It’s Time for Air Duct Cleaning

Dust Accumulation

If the dust in your home seems to be piling up more frequently than usual, it may indicate it’s time to have the ducts cleaned. Excessive dust means air is not circulating properly.

Worsening Allergy Symptoms

If your allergies seem to be getting worse with time, but you can’t attribute the change to anything, the reason may be hiding in the ducts. This is especially likely if you notice your symptoms get worse once you turn on your air conditioning or heating.

Visible Mold Growth

Mold inside the ducts or in or around your heating and cooling system warrants a call to an HVAC contractor as soon as possible. Aside from contributing to bothersome allergy symptoms, mold can be a serious threat to your health.

You Haven’t Cleaned It in Years

If you can’t remember the last time you had an air duct cleaning, or it’s been at least five years, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Even if you clean your house regularly, allergy symptoms triggered by airborne allergens and irritants will continue if there is buildup in the air ducts.

If you need air duct cleaning, get in touch with Dave's Cooling Heating & Plumbing. These experienced HVAC contractors in Staunton, VA, have provided their customers with exceptional quality and affordability for over 30 years. Call them today at (540) 942-4357 or visit them online to learn more about their services.