Why Indoor Air Quality Often Comes Down ?How Clean Your Ducts Are?

Air pollution is a major concern these days. Numerous sources are polluting the air we breathe, causing health problems for people and growing issues for the planet we call home. Many people don’t realize that pollution isn’t just an outdoor problem, though. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, meaning people aren’t necessarily safe from contaminants even in their own homes. Dirty Ductwork and Poor Indoor Air Quality Though indoor airborne contaminants can come from a wide range of sources, dirty ductwork is one of the prime culprits here. HVAC systems circulate air through ductwork into homes. If that air contains contaminants, they can accumulate in ducts where they’ll continue to be recirculated. Regular duct cleaning and sealing can help keep those contaminants at a minimum. In the meantime, though, read on to learn more about how dirty ductwork can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Digging Deeper When HVAC systems run, they draw in air from their surroundings. That air passes through filters that are designed to remove many types of contaminants, but they can only do so much. That’s particularly true if they’re clogged or damaged. At the same time, some filters just aren’t designed to protect against smaller particles. Any contaminants that make their way through the HVAC filters can move along to the ductwork. As mentioned, they’ll continue to be recirculated through a home from there. Dirt and Allergens Dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen, and other particles are common indoor contaminants. They can cause or exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma. They’re detrimental for people with allergies as well. Constant exposure to dirt and allergens can lead to progressively worsening symptoms.  Microorganisms Dirty ductwork also gives microorganisms an ideal environment in which to grow and thrive. Moisture often gathers in ducts from condensation and high humidity levels. When that moisture combines with dust particles, it can give rise to mold and mildew. As air passes through the HVAC system, it picks up mold and mildew spores and spreads them throughout a home. That, in turn, can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Mold and mildew aren’t the only microorganisms that can live in ductwork, either. Bacteria and viruses are also common invaders. Millions of pathogens can linger in dirty ducts, waiting to be passed along to human hosts. They can cause any number of illnesses ranging fro Bacteria and virusesm mild to potentially deadly. Pests Additionally, unkempt ductwork can attract pests. Mice, insects, and other intruders may make their homes in ductwork. From there, they leave behind dead skin cells and germs. They can cause serious damage to ductwork as well, which further detracts from indoor air quality. Damaged ductwork could be also viewed as an open invitation to other pests. That results in a continually worsening problem if it’s not addressed properly.  Keeping Ductwork in Optimal Condition Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for keeping ductwork in optimal condition. Cleaning eliminates accumulated contaminants, and sealing helps keep new ones at bay. Both those factors can lead to improved indoor air quality. Remember, though, it’s an ongoing process. Duct inspections, cleaning, and maintenance should be carried out at least every three to five years though there’s no harm in scheduling these services even more frequently.