You may not think about your air ducts often, but they're a crucial feature of your home. Carrying warm and cool air throughout your house, they regulate the indoor temperature. Although you should schedule regular duct cleaning every three to five years, extra cleanings may be necessary from time to time. Look for these warning signs that your air ducts need to be cleaned by a professional.  

When Should You Contact an HVAC Technician? 

1. Dusty Rooms & Vents 

Dusting once or twice a month is something every homeowner has to do, but if you struggle to keep your home dust-free, there might be excess dust in your ducts. As the air circulates through the ducts, it carries particles with it into your home. Dusty vent openings are an early sign that you need to schedule a cleaning. 

2. Increased Utility Bills 

While you may notice an increase in bills during the winter or summer months, those costs should be reasonably consistent each year. An unusual spike in utility costs means it might be time for duct cleaning. When there's debris in your ducts, the system has to work harder to push the air through, resulting in increased costs. 

3. Mold Growth

Mold thrives in damp, dark areas, meaning you'll likely first notice growth around your vents, furnace, or air conditioner. This doesn't mean the mold has reached the vents, but you should still contact a professional to check the extent of the growth and remove it. Long-term exposure to mold can result in allergy-like symptoms, so it's best to take care of this quickly.  

Bring your energy costs back down and keep your home clean with duct cleaning from Dayton Reliable Air Filter. They install and maintain residential, industrial, and commercial air filters throughout Ohio and into Northern Kentucky. Trust their team to save you money while improving your indoor air quality. Learn more about their services online, or call (800) 699-0747 to schedule a free on-site survey with a certified technician.