Air ducts are an essential part of your whole-house heating and cooling system, as they circulate heated or cooled air throughout your house. Over time, dust, pollen and other particles collect inside air ducts, which you will need to clean out. Here local air conditioning installation contractor Sierra Air shares tips on how to keep your air ducts clean for longer.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Air filters trap dust and other particles before they can enter your HVAC system. Over time, they’ll become clogged, requiring cleaning or replacement. Experts recommend replacing air filters every three months, but it really varies by household depending on factors such as dust levels in the area, if there are pets in the home and the season; air conditioners tend to be heavily used in the summer.
If you’re not sure when your air filter should be replaced, check on it every week or so. If there’s a layer of dust and particulates on it, then you need to replace it. Fortunately, air filters are designed to be user-replaceable, and replacements can be purchased off the shelf; just make sure you choose the same size as the old one.
Dust and Vacuum More Often
Dust, dander, and other particulates that may collect in the heating and air conditioning ducts come from everywhere. Keeping up with a regular house cleaning routine can help prevent these particulates from getting into your HVAC system. Keeping your indoor spaces clean can also contribute to maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing occurrences of asthma, allergies and other respiratory problems.
Schedule Professional Air Duct Cleaning
Air ducts require cleaning every three to five years to remove any particulates that have collected within them. During a typical air duct cleaning, the air ducts are sealed and subjected to negative pressure, after which a brush-like mechanical device is used to knock dust and other particles loose. The negative pressure works like a vacuum and sucks particulates into a dustbin. Sealant may also be applied to seams and joints, either as a sprayed-on caulk or an aerosol. The ducts may also be sanitized to prevent odors caused by mold and bacteria.
Call Sierra Air for Your Heating and Cooling Needs
Sierra Air is your leading provider of heating and air conditioning repair and installation services. You can fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Reno, NV, and nearby areas.
