Your home is your sanctuary and source of comfort. If the air inside is dusty or the vents have mold, this is a cause for concern. The solution could be as simple as a professional duct cleaning. If your home isn’t heating or cooling properly and you’re dusting more often than you should be, look for the following signs.

Reasons to Schedule Duct Cleaning 

1. Dust on Vent Covers

If there’s a heavy buildup of dust on your vent covers, the ducts are likely to blame. Excessive dust is unhealthy and can cause breathing issues if not addressed and remedied by an experienced HVAC repair and duct cleaning professional. This also points to a solution to the mystery of why dust is collecting on your furniture more than you’d like.

2. Mold Near Vents

Visible mold growing around your home’s vents is a strong sign that it’s time to clean your home’s ducts. The buildup could be extreme enough within the ductwork to collect moisture and facilitate mold growth, which may then circulate through your home’s air. 

It could also be a sign of other issues with your HVAC system. With such a health risk as mold, an inspection of your unit is worth your while. 

3. Inconsistent Airflow

If certain rooms in your home are not heating or cooling as others are, the problem may originate in the ductwork. As dust and debris accumulate, air can be prevented from traveling on its intended course to certain areas in the home.

If a particular room isn’t receiving the proper amount of airflow, try removing the vent cover and shining a flashlight within. A professional will be able to investigate further. 

4. Strange Noises

It doesn’t take homeowners long to become familiar with the sounds of their running HVAC unit. If you hear unfamiliar noises that seem to originate in the ducts, however, something may be rattling around behind the vents.  Refer to an HVAC professional if you hear any strange knocking or screeching.

5. Spikes in Your Utility Bills

When air conditioning or heating systems are forced to work harder, that means higher energy costs for homeowners. If you see a surprising spike in your utility bills, it’s possible that buildup in your ducts is slowing down airflow and forcing your system to overcompensate. 

To ensure your HVAC system is in top working order, have it inspected by the heating and air professionals at Preston Reeves Heating & Air Conditioning. Based in Hilliard, FL, these licensed technicians have provided duct cleaning for homes and businesses throughout northeast Florida and southeast Georgia for over 50 years. To schedule HVAC installation, maintenance, or repairs, call (904) 845-3338 today.