If your home just never seems to feel as fresh as it used to — or if you’re constantly dusting and still sneezing — your air ducts might be to blame. Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and even mold can collect in your ductwork, circulating throughout your home every time your HVAC system runs. Clean ducts will help you breathe easier and will keep your HVAC system running efficiently, saving you money and stress.
In this blog, our experts at Clay’s Climate Control cover what you need to know to maintain your ducts and improve your home’s air quality.
Signs Your Air Ducts Need To Be Cleaned
Your ductwork might be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. When your air ducts are dirty, they can cause poor indoor air quality, uneven airflow, and higher energy bills. Here are a few telltale signs that it might be time to clean your ducts:
- Excess dust around vents
- Musty or stale odors coming from vents
- Increased allergy or respiratory symptoms indoors
- Visible mold inside ducts or on HVAC components
- Poor airflow in certain rooms
- Pest droppings or signs of infestation near vents
- Recent home renovation or remodeling work
- HVAC filters that clog faster than usual
DIY Tips for Keeping Your Ducts Clean
While some duct cleaning tasks require a professional touch, you can still take steps to minimize buildup and keep your system running smoothly. A little DIY maintenance can go a long way toward improving your home’s air quality and HVAC performance.
Try these tips for keeping your ducts cleaner between professional visits:
- Change your air filter regularly: A clean filter helps trap dust and debris before it reaches your ductwork.
- Dust and vacuum often: Keeping your home clean reduces the amount of dirt that can be pulled into your system.
- Keep vents and registers clean: Wipe vents and registers down monthly to prevent dust buildup.
- Seal gaps in ductwork: Use foil tape or mastic sealant to patch small leaks that let in dust and debris.
- Install a high-efficiency air filter: HEPA filters or filters with higher MERV ratings catch more particles than standard filters.
- Check your attic or crawl space for gaps: Unsealed areas can let in dust, pests, or moisture that affect your ducts.
When To Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning
If your ducts haven’t been cleaned in a few years — or ever — it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. Homeowners should reach out after renovations, if mold or pests are present, or if allergy symptoms seem worse indoors than outdoors. Professional duct cleaning goes far beyond what DIY methods can accomplish, using specialized tools to safely remove debris deep within the ductwork without damaging your system. A thorough cleaning from an experienced HVAC technician will help keep your entire system clean, efficient, and reliable, especially during peak heating and cooling seasons.
Choose Clay’s for Expert Duct Cleaning Services
Delaying duct cleaning can lead to higher energy bills, unnecessary wear and tear on your HVAC system, and poor indoor air quality for your family. If you suspect that the ductwork in your South Jersey home is dirty, reach out to Clay’s Climate Control for professional duct cleaning services. Our licensed technicians offer same-day service, upfront pricing, and expert care for every job. Count on us for the help you need to restore your indoor air quality and keep your HVAC system running strong!
Contact Clay’s Climate Control to schedule duct cleaning in South Jersey today.