You rely on your home’s HVAC system to keep the air at a comfortable temperature year-round. Besides moving treated air throughout your home, the ducts also circulate dust and allergens. That’s why regular air duct cleaning is necessary to ensure your HVAC works efficiently and protects your family’s health. 

What Is Air Duct Cleaning? 

Over time, the components of your HVAC system can become dirty with dust, animal dander, and pollen. If any moisture is present, mold can develop. All these contaminants can cause health problems, but regular air duct cleaning removes them, keeping the air fresh and clean.

The process of air duct cleaning usually involves using special tools to loosen dirt and debris, which are then removed via a high-powered vacuum. If mold or evidence of a pest infestation is present, the cleaning may also include the application of chemical biocides.

What Happens If Air Ducts Aren’t Cleaned?

If anyone in your home has allergies or smokes, if you’ve recently remodeled, or if you have pets, more frequent cleanings are needed. Otherwise, a good rule of thumb is to schedule a cleaning every three to five years.

Not cleaning your air ducts creates several problems. Dirty air ducts reduce the efficiency of your HVAC by as much as 25–40%, plus they can shorten the system’s life span. They also circulate contaminants that aggravate allergies and other respiratory issues and contribute to odors in the home. 

How to Keep Your Ducts Clean

Because air circulates through an HVAC system five to seven times per day, dirty ducts are inevitable. Change the air filter at least every three months to avoid excessive dust buildup.

Also, keep your home as dust-free as possible with regular vacuuming. An air purifier can help as well.

Fix any leaks right away to prevent mold. Be proactive about pest control to keep insects and rodents out of your air ducts.  

If you want to keep the air in your home fresh and improve your HVAC’s efficiency, schedule air duct cleaning with Purair Hawaii in Honolulu. Voted Hawaii’s Best AC Company by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser for three years in a row, these experts provide Oahu homeowners with air conditioning services and mold remediation and dryer cleaning. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 589-2712 to schedule an appointment.